SEIT Daintree Dreaming - Aboriginal Art and Culture

Yalada! (Welcome). Glimpse into the unique lives of the Kuku Yalanji people, the Indigenous people of Mossman country. Walk through the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest on a dreamtime journey, discovering Ngadiku (Nar-di-gul) the stories and legends from a long time ago, after taking part in a smoking ceremony - which cleanses and wards off bad spirits. You’ll discover how bush soaps are made, learn how to identify bush-tucker, and discover how native plants have been traditionally used; skills dating more than 50,000 years. After your slow-paced walk taking in every element of the rainforest: the light falling through the fan palms, the subtle sounds of streams trickling over pebbles, the rustle of the scrub-turkey moving his way through the bush floor, relax to the sounds of the rainforest, as you’re served Daintree home-grown tea, paired with a damper scone (an outback foodie favourite).

Lunch is hosted at Mayi Café and Restaurant, Mayi meaning 'edible plants' (also meal or food in general). This place is special as it’s built around sustainability and is operated by the local community within Mosman Gorge Cultural Centre. After lunch you’ll have time to explore the gift shop, with the opportunity to buy some Daintree tea or even some local Indigenous Art - it will be hard to resist.

Your afternoon continues with a scenic drive through Shannonvale where your knowledgeable guide will share stories of life in the area, the twenty-six Aboriginal tribal groups of the region, the ancient ‘super-highways’, how resourceful the paper bark tree is, the six seasons of nature, and other Indigenous insights into the Tablelands - a journey where mother nature really does the talking. 

Arrive at the Yiki people’s protected Janbal Aboriginal Art Gallery. Brian “Binna” Swindley will have you feeling inspired, connecting you with the stories told through Aboriginal paintings, the tales of the land, wildlife, reef and rainforest, handed down through Binna’s family for generations. You’ll learn his skills and discover your own, translating a story of your own into artwork to take home, an uplifting reminder of your travels and this special experience on Kuku Yalanji country. 

As we drive back to your home away from home, we say goodbye to friends made with your masterpiece in your hand and the spirit of the local culture and the Daintree in your heart. You’ll be dropped off seamlessly at either Port Douglas, Northern Beaches or Cairns near your hotel. 

Inclusions:

Hands-on experience at Janbal Aboriginal Art Gallery (take home your own work of art)

Guided Daintree rainforest walk at Mossman Gorge

Lunch at Mayi Café and Restaurant, where you will be supporting Indigenous students to gain formal qualifications whilst learning and applying their knowledge on country.

Experienced and interpretive Driver Guide with a top of the range vehicle, and return hotel transfers

Fitness & Mobility: Medium fitness level required

The guided walk at Mossman Gorge is considered easy grade and under 1 kilometre in distance

Our fleet of vehicles have a few steps on entry; you’ll be boarding and disembarking throughout the day.

Other Information:

Minimum age is 4 years old and child car seats unfortunately cannot be provided, however, if you wish to bring your own car seats anchor points are available on the vehicle.

Cancellation Fees:

50% within 7 days prior to departure

100% cancellation fee for any cancellations within 48 hours of travel or for passengers who fail to appear on the day of departure