Learn about local Aboriginal culture – Coffs Harbour
There are few better ways to start a spring day in Coffs Harbour than taking in the stunning views from Sealy Lookout. Saturday will be extra special with the chance to enjoy the award-winning Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience and learn a little about the world’s oldest living culture. Held monthly in the Orara East State Forest, the Giingan Experience is an interactive morning including a two-hour informative tour. Engage in Gumbaynggirr culture through language, dance, storytelling, cooking and more. Start the day at the Giingan Markets, watch the Wajaarr Ngaarlu Dancers perform and learn Aunty Jenny’s damper-making secrets. Afterwards, take the walk to Korora Lookout and hear the Dreaming stories of how the land was made. Heading along the Gumgali Track, you will visit points of interest and see the plants used by the Gumbaynggirr people. Among these are the Native Sarsaparilla (high in Vitamin C), the stem of the Bracken Fern (used to treat ant bites) and sap from the Bloodwoods (used as an antiseptic). Keeping a careful eye out, you may just spot some local wildlife, including koalas. Once the tour is over, guests can head back to the Nyanggan Gapi Cafe and enjoy delicious coffee and cake.
The day is made up of three components:
Giingan Markets: 8.30am-1.30pm
Giingan Tour: 10am-1pm
Nyanggan Gapi Café: 8.30am-2pm
The markets give visitors and tourists the chance to buy products made locally by Aboriginal stallholders while the artists and creators have the opportunity to share their wares with the wider community. According to the organisers, the Giingan Experience not only offers guests a special cultural encounter, but also gives the Gumbaynggirr community the opportunity to participate by speaking their traditional language and practicing culture on Country.
Tickets for the Giingan Tour can be purchased at the Nyanggan Gapi cafe on the day or through the website.
Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience
When: Saturday September 12
Where: Sealy Lookout, Korora
Cost: From $44 (adult) and $33 (children)