15/07/2024
National NAIDOC Week, beginning on the 7th, running through to the 14th of July, offers all Australians a chance to learn about First Nations cultures and histories. It is a time to celebrate the oldest, continuous living cultures on Earth.
When visiting the Murrumbidgee Trails, take the opportunity to learn more about Aboriginal culture and the history of our region.
If you're interested in a guided experience, consider Mark Saddler, a local Wiradjuri man who leads Bundyi Cultural Tours [Wiradjuri Mob]. He offers a variety of tour options, including full-day, half-day, and overnight experiences. Mark is pictured at the Yerong Creek Water Tower, where his donated artwork is also featured. For more information and to make reservations, please visit the Bundyi Cultural Tours website at https://www.bundyiculture.com.au/book-a-tour/.
For those interested in independent exploration, there are several significant Wiradjuri sites to discover and learn about. These include the Fivebough and Tuckerbil wetlands near Visit Leeton, as well as The Rock Nature Reserve - Kengal Aboriginal Place and Galore Hill Scenic Reserve in Visit Lockhart Shire.
You can also take a self-guided drive to explore Leeton’s Lyrics, Landscapes, and Lintels Public Art Trail, which features various sites dedicated to discovering the area’s Aboriginal heritage.
When visiting Narrandera Tourism be sure to see the Wiradjuri Honour Wall located in Marie Bashir Park. This wall commemorates the Narrungdera Clan members and honours the Wiradjuri people of Narrandera Shire. Nearby, you can visit the Sandhills Artefacts gallery and workshop, where Wiradjuri descendant Michael Lyons warmly welcomes visitors.
Displayed on the walls of the Murrumbidgee Council Chambers in Jerilderie is Yo-thun-ing-yuna Ngarratya, a remarkable artwork by four Barundji/Barkindji artists. Its name, meaning ‘coming together,’ was crafted to greet visitors during the 2000 Olympic Games, where it adorned Parliament House.
We hope you include these experiences on your must-see list when exploring the Murrumbidgee Trails, not just during NAIDOC Week, all year round!
Image credit: Destination NSW
