From theatrical performances to bush tucker tastings, a range of Gold Coast indigenous experiences tempt the curious traveller.
Learn about the Yugambeh people’s fascinating customs in the city and surrounding region.
Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre
Nestled amid the Burleigh Headland, Jellurgal is a small yet informative Aboriginal cultural centre. While the on-site artefacts are insightful, the highlight is the indigenous-led tour of the headland.
An Aboriginal guide regales Dreamtime tales and provides insight into pre-contact customs. Learn about traditional fishing and hunting as you meander a verdant rainforest walkway.
Spirits of the Red Sand
This Beenleigh cultural centre runs an award-winning aboriginal storytelling experience. The show spans Dreamtime to colonisation, highlighting the vibrant spirit of the Yugambeh people.
During the day, the centre holds an interactive Welcome to Country. Activities include boomerang painting, smoking ceremonies, and bush tucker tastings—it’s a hit with the kids.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
On the southern end of the city, the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary puts on a daily Yugambeh Aboriginal Dance show. The performance pays homage to the traditional owners through captivating song and dance. Make your way to the Lorikeet Central stage at 3:30 pm to see the show unfold.
While you’re there, marvel at its eclectic collection of native wildlife. Next, pop into the animal hospital—one of the busiest in Australia—to see cute critters nursed back to health.
Tweed Eco Cruises
On the picturesque Tweed River, a Bundjalung man named Luther Cora (A.K.A. the Black Cockatoo) leads an immersive mud fishing eco-cruise. Anglers skewer a fresh specimen from the riverbanks while hearing Yugambeh Dreamtime stories.
Once you’ve made a bountiful haul, staff combine the mud crabs with hearty sides to put on a true pot-to-plate feast. Top the day off sipping beer or wine while the Black Cockatoo belts out tunes on his didgeridoo.
Tropical Fruit World
Our favourite fruit-focused theme park educates guests on the connection between the land and its traditional owners. While indigenous heritage isn’t the focus of the two-hour tour, its guides go to great lengths to showcase Aboriginal customs.
A tractor train chugs through the expansive farmland, visiting exotic orchards and a barnyard animal enclosure. The trip finishes with a boat cruise through a scenic bushland valley in the centre of the farm.
Enjoy Gold Coast Indigenous Experiences with Kiff & Culture
Kiff & Culture seeks to promote the fascinating customs of our country’s traditional owners.
We tour Tropical Fruit Farm on our food-focused Tweed Hinterland tours. Alternatively, join us on our three-day Brisbane to Byron Food Trail. While in Byron, you’ll experience an indigenous culture tour led by renowned Arakwal custodian Delta Kay.
Image Credit: diannasnape via Instagram, Spirits of the Red Sand via Instagram & Currumbin Sanctuary via Instagram
