Introducing Mimi Pearl: A Tribute to Family and the Future of Sustainable Tourism

Willie Creek Pearls is proud to announce the launch of Mimi Pearl on the 9th of May 2025, a state-of-the-art solar-powered vessel and the newest addition to its multi-award-winning Willie Creek Pearl Farm Tour in Broome. Purpose-built to explore the breathtaking waters of Willie Creek with minimal environmental impact, Mimi Pearl represents a significant advancement in sustainable tourism. Her launch not only enhances the visitor experience but also reinforces Broome’s position as a leader in environmentally conscious travel, setting a positive example for tourism operators across the region and building on the success of our multi-award-winning tours.  

Quietly powered by renewable energy and fitted with a 6.5 kW bifacial solar panel array, Mimi Pearl removes the need for fossil fuels, reducing emissions and risks associated with fuel handling in sensitive marine environments. Her near-silent operation offers a calmer, cleaner way to explore, without the disruption of engine noise or fumes. This benefits not only visitors, but also the marine life that calls Willie Creek their home. The move away from petroleum-based fuels also reduces the production and transport of waste materials, lowering the environmental impact of vessel maintenance and servicing. Willie Creek Pearls will save the equivalent of an estimated 787 carbon credits annually, representing 787 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide or its equivalent in other greenhouse gases. This significant reduction supports our goal to lower emissions and operate more sustainably. 

Mimi Pearl is more than just a technical innovation. She is a tribute to family, legacy and the land. One of the first words spoken by Valda's grandson, Darcy, was “Mimi”- the name he gave his beloved grandmother. Befitting the family’s deep connection to Broome, “Mimi” is also the word for grandmother in the local Aboriginal language. 

"Mimi Pearl represents a significant investment in the future of our business and the broader tourism industry in Broome,” said Paul Birch, CEO of Willie Creek Pearls. “By embracing clean energy and innovation, we are not only reducing our carbon emissions, we are continuing to deliver a world-class experience that aligns with the values of today’s travellers."

Valda after being crowned Floreat Surf Life Saving Club’s “Miss Gidget” in 1960

"Mimi taught us to look after what matters: family, community, and the environment," added Bailey Banfield, Willie Creek Pearls’ Sustainability Officer and Valda’s grandson, "To see her name connected to a project that helps protect the Kimberley’s unique ecosystem is a tribute to that. Through solar power, we’re leading the way in sustainable tourism, ensuring that future generations can experience the beauty of our region." 

With a 46-seat capacity and upgraded accessibility features, Mimi Pearl is designed to welcome more people while placing less pressure on the environment. She is a symbol of innovation that respects both community and country. Soon to be cruising the waters of Willie Creek, sea trialing of Mimi Pearl will begin from Sunday. Book a Willie Creek Pearl Farm Tour today to experience eco-tourism at its finest!