Kangaroo Dreaming Trail, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Airing Date: Aug 25th, 2006
Kangaroo Dreaming Trail is a tour organised by a group of 3 tour operators: Ngala Koondarm Boodjah, U Me and Perth Tours and The River Retreat.
The tour leaders are Aboriginal mother and son, Lillian Smith-Ince and Steve Jackson, and their aim is to share with guests the culture of the Noongar people. The tour's first stop is Walyunga National Park, where guests are taken to a scatter site (meeting/ gathering site) - which was still in use last century. This site is one of the largest known Aboriginal campsites around Perth and it is thought that the area may have been occupied by the Noongar people for more than 6000 years.
Guests gather in a circle as Steve tells the story of how the Noongar people met at that place for hunting, gathering, trading and ceremonies. A 1.2-kilometre Aboriginal Heritage Trail meanders along the river bank, between Walyunga Pool and Boogarup Pool, and allows people to learn about Aboriginal myths and legends and see the park's plants and animals through the eyes of the original inhabitants. A walk around the area with Steve informs guests of the local vegetation: which plants can be eaten and which should be left alone.
Visitors can also have a go at learning to throw a boomerang as well as attending a traditional Aboriginal dance. The Aboriginal gallery and gift shop house authentic, original native art and specialise in pieces from the South West. The gallery's range of traditional artefacts includes didgeridoos, axes, knives, shields and hunting boomerangs, as well as quality Australiana gifts and souvenirs.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Kangaroo Dreaming Trail tour from $95 a person. Price includes taxes. Subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply. Includes lunch.
The River Retreat - PH: 1800 244 492
Prices correct at 25/8/06
Rooms from $115 a night. Price includes taxes. Subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
The River Retreat - PH: 1800 244 492
Prices correct at 25/8/06
