Anchors Rest

Gumaraa Aboriginal Experience

Cultural and Theme Tours
Half Day or Less
  • Aboriginal Culture

Highlights

  • Immerse in Dharawal and Yuin culture through guided tours that reveal the rich stories of one of the world's oldest cultures.
  • Paddle the crystal-clear Minnamurra River on a Cultural Canoeing tour, experiencing nature intertwined with Aboriginal traditions.
  • Explore bush tucker and craft mini canoes in the Wollongong Botanical Gardens, engaging in hands-on Aboriginal learning.
  • Create your own boomerang in an Aboriginal art workshop, connecting with traditional designs and cultural stories firsthand.
Today's Weather
12°C Clear sky
Google Rating
4.8 / 5 16 Google reviews

Gumaraa is proudly based in the Shellharbour region, delivering authentic Aboriginal cultural experiences and education inspired by the traditions of the Dharawal and Yuin Nations.

Through strong local relationships and deep connection to Country, they work closely with schools, workplaces, council and community across Shellharbour while also supporting programs and partnerships throughout Wollongong and the wider Illawarra.

Their programs, workshops, tours and corporate services share stories, knowledge and cultural understanding rooted in one of the world’s oldest living cultures.

Join their guided tours and on‑Country experiences to immerse yourself in Dharawal and Yuin culture, explore beautiful landscapes, and learn traditional skills from Aboriginal guides. Anyone and everyone is welcome!

12°C Clear sky
4.8 / 5 16 Google reviews

Images and Video

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Tour/s

Cultural Canoeing Tour

Cultural Canoeing Tour

Embark on our Cultural Canoeing tour, a unique experience that combines the natural beauty of the Minnamurra River with the rich history and traditions of Aboriginal culture. Start the tour off with a Welcome to Country, Traditional Smoking Ceremony and Ochre Ceremony. Paddle through the crystal-clear waterways, guided by our expert staff, as you explore the serene environment of mangroves and sea channels. Along the way, you’ll discover the fascinating evolution of canoes—from traditional bark designs to modern plastic ones—and how Aboriginal people skillfully used them for fishing, hunting, and daily life.

As you journey through this stunning landscape, our guides will share stories and insights about the deep cultural and spiritual connection the Aboriginal people have with the Minnamurra area. Learn about their sustainable practices, rich traditions, and the significance of the river to their way of life.

Connection to Country, Aboriginal Experience

Connection to Country, Aboriginal Experience

Step into a powerful Aboriginal cultural experience with Gumaraa, where you’ll connect with Country, culture, and community through ceremony, storytelling, and hands-on activities. Guided by Aboriginal educators and Traditional Knowledge Holders, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the world’s oldest living culture.

Explore Culture in the Botanic Gardens

Explore Culture in the Botanic Gardens

Join Gumaraa at Wollongong Botanical Gardens for a 2-hour cultural walk. Explore bush tucker, build traditional shelters, craft mini canoes, and hear Dreaming stories in this hands-on Aboriginal learning experience.

Paint with Culture - Aboriginal Art Workshop

Paint with Culture – Aboriginal Art Workshop

Immerse yourself in a hands-on Aboriginal art experience in this 2-hour workshop. Guided by experienced facilitators, you will learn about traditional Aboriginal designs, symbols, and cultural stories while creating your very own boomerang or set of small clapsticks. This workshop is perfect for individuals, families, or groups looking for a unique and meaningful cultural activity.

Traditional Bushtucker | Medicine Walk

Traditional Bushtucker | Medicine Walk

This immersive experience will not only introduce you to a variety of native plants but also provide insights into their rich cultural significance and traditional uses for food and medicine.

Engage in activities that will deepen your connection to the land. Through these experiences, you will gain a profound appreciation for the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Indigenous cultures, as well as a renewed respect for the natural world.

Traditional Spear Making Workshop (Males Only)

Traditional Spear Making Workshop (Males Only)

Step into an authentic cultural experience in this 2-hour Aboriginal spear-making workshop. Guided by experienced facilitators, participants will learn traditional spear-making techniques, explore the cultural significance of the spear in Aboriginal history, and create their own handcrafted spear to take home. This workshop is ideal for individuals, families, or groups interested in hands-on cultural learning.

Traditional Weaving Workshop

Traditional Weaving Workshop

This workshop starts with an introduction to the history and significance of weaving in Aboriginal culture. This includes the traditional techniques, materials used, and the cultural significance of weaving in storytelling, cultural practices, and daily life.

This workshop aims to provide participants with a hands-on experience of traditional Aboriginal weaving, while also fostering an understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal culture, art, and traditions.

Memberships

  • Visitor Information Centre

Activities

  • Canoeing/Kayaking

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