Shire of Derby-West Kimberley president Geoff Haerewa takes a comical dig at Broome amid COVID-19 border closure

Not even a global pandemic can quash the banter between Broome and Derby.

Residents of the two towns have a long history of friendly — or heated — rivalry, with the latter often declaring itself “the real Kimberley” and referring to its opposition as the North Pilbara.

Shire of Derby-West Kimberley president Geoff Haerewa, left, joined in the jesting last week, with the COVID-19 crisis of all things fuelling his hilarious dig at Broome.

Speaking to the Broome Advertiser after each council in the region shut its borders to prevent the spread of the disease, Mr Haerewa said local anglers were delighted their favourite, quiet locations would not be intruded.

“For the first time ever Broome can’t come to our fishing spots,” he said.

“Derby and Fitzroy Crossing can now fish without being invaded by visitors south of our border, which is very exciting.

“I am actually all for leaving the borders closed once this is all over.”

The closures are in place until further notice, following campaigning from the Kimberley Regional Group, comprising leaders from each of the four shires.