UNRIVALLED ABORIGINAL EXPERIENCES // ISSUE 8
Welcome
Ngaji gurrjin, or hello in the language of the Yawuru of northern Western Australia.
In this eighth edition of Connect to Country, a digital publication presented by Tourism Australia and Discover Aboriginal Experiences (DAE), we invite you to indulge in a unique take on one of the world’s most Instagrammable vistas, head out on a spectacular expedition through two World Heritage National Parks, grind ochre with Traditional Owners on Country, and try smoked eel prepared the traditional way by Gundijitmara chefs. You’ll want to grab a pen and mark your calendar, so you don't miss the incredible Aboriginal culture and performances on display at Sydney/Warrane’s annual Yabun Festival.
Saltwater crocodiles are the ultimate survivors, with their evolution dating back to the days of the dinosaurs. So, in an Olympic year, we talk to a man who has had more interactions with salties than is safe and ask his opinion on who would be the victor in a hypothetical contest between an Australian saltwater croc and a US alligator. His answer will surprise you.
The Red Centre attracts a quarter of a million visitors each year, and we explore some of the contemporary and traditional ways you can enjoy a rich experience of the culture and landscape of Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon/Watarrka. These experiences will ensure you leave the Red Centre with humbling insights into Australia’s literal and metaphoric heart—as well as incredible photos.
TIME Magazine has caught on to what we at Discover Aboriginal Experiences have known for some time—the location of Tasmania’s/lutruwita’s Indigenous-owned tourism offering, wukalina Walk, is one of greatest places on Earth. Natasha Dragun’s report of her experience of the postcard-perfect walk only serves to reinforce TIME’s verdict.
Whilst other countries boast of their historic past, Australia is in the unique position of being the home of the world’s oldest living cultures. In this edition, we highlight Indigenous-led tours where you can learn about ancient traditions that are still practised, whilst knowing that your tourist dollar is helping ensure First Nation’s cultures remain strong for future generations.
Finally, if ‘Adventure’ is your middle name, we have a selection of incredible, active experiences to tempt you. Imagine snorkelling the waters of the Great Barrier Reef whilst an Indigenous guide shares their knowledge of, and deep cultural connection to, Sea Country. Or quad biking across the longest sand dune in the Southern Hemisphere before your guide reveals survival secrets that have enabled the Worimi people to survive there for thousands of years. Buckle up!
Welcome
Ngaji gurrjin, or hello in the language of the Yawuru of northern Western Australia.
In this eighth edition of Connect to Country, a digital publication presented by Tourism Australia and Discover Aboriginal Experiences (DAE), we invite you to indulge in a unique take on one of the world’s most Instagrammable vistas, head out on a spectacular expedition through two World Heritage National Parks, grind ochre with Traditional Owners on Country, and try smoked eel prepared the traditional way by Gundijitmara chefs. You’ll want to grab a pen and mark your calendar, so you don't miss the incredible Aboriginal culture and performances on display at Sydney/Warrane’s annual Yabun Festival.
Saltwater crocodiles are the ultimate survivors, with their evolution dating back to the days of the dinosaurs. So, in an Olympic year, we talk to a man who has had more interactions with salties than is safe and ask his opinion on who would be the victor in a hypothetical contest between an Australian saltwater croc and a US alligator. His answer will surprise you.
The Red Centre attracts a quarter of a million visitors each year, and we explore some of the contemporary and traditional ways you can enjoy a rich experience of the culture and landscape of Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon/Watarrka. These experiences will ensure you leave the Red Centre with humbling insights into Australia’s literal and metaphoric heart—as well as incredible photos.
TIME Magazine has caught on to what we at Discover Aboriginal Experiences have known for some time—the location of Tasmania’s/lutruwita’s Indigenous-owned tourism offering, wukalina Walk, is one of greatest places on Earth. Natasha Dragun’s report of her experience of the postcard-perfect walk only serves to reinforce TIME’s verdict.
Whilst other countries boast of their historic past, Australia is in the unique position of being the home of the world’s oldest living cultures. In this edition, we highlight Indigenous-led tours where you can learn about ancient traditions that are still practised, whilst knowing that your tourist dollar is helping ensure First Nation’s cultures remain strong for future generations.
Finally, if ‘Adventure’ is your middle name, we have a selection of incredible, active experiences to tempt you. Imagine snorkelling the waters of the Great Barrier Reef whilst an Indigenous guide shares their knowledge of, and deep cultural connection to, Sea Country. Or quad biking across the longest sand dune in the Southern Hemisphere before your guide reveals survival secrets that have enabled the Worimi people to survive there for thousands of years. Buckle up!
In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are advised that this publication may contain images, voices and names of deceased persons.
