Shared stories to shine

A Broome pearling company has shone a light on the many stories of the Kimberley in the first issue of its newly launched magazine.

After nearly a year in production, Cygnet Bay Pearls launched The Australian Pearl at a Business After Hours event at its showroom on Dampier Terrace last Thursday, but the 90-page coffee-table publication is far more than just a catalogue for its renowned jewellery.

The magazine tells the story of Cygnet Bay’s 70-year history and of the people critical to the pearling industry, as well as exploring tales from across the region, with contributions from filmmaker Mark Jones and author Di Morrissey. Cygnet Bay general manager James Brown said he had had fantastic feedback about the magazine’s first edition and he hoped it would raise awareness of Broome’s rich history.

“The Cygnet Bay brand is so much more than just a jewellery brand,” he said.

“It has always been about the destination of the entire Kimberley and this magazine teaches people about the rich history of Broome.

“Some of these stories are critical to what our town is today.

“We’ve had really good feedback so far and we enjoyed telling the intriguing stories of people who would otherwise be too humble to tell (them) themselves.” The magazine is expected to appear in shops, newsagencies, visitor centres and on cruiseships around the region.

Mr Brown said he believed The Australian Pearl had the potential to be distributed across the State and perhaps even the nation.

“The magazine is in its early stages but I could definitely see it being distributed around Australia,” he said.

“I hope that is the case.

“ It would be really good for Broome and generating tourism.

“It really showcases how much is on offer up in Broome.”

The magazine is now on sale from the Cygnet Bay showroom for $5 a copy.