Images courtesy of Tourism Queensland (No.1 & 2), Kerry Trapnell (No.3 & 4) and George Serras, National Museum of Australia (No.5)
As you travel through the Endeavour Valley and branch off onto unsealed roads to an area known as Wangaar-Wuri, it’s hard to imagine the depth of stories these hills protect.
High in the dramatic outcrops of giant rocks above Hope Vale, outside Cooktown, Aboriginal Elder, Willie Gordon, of the Nugal-warra clan, will take you to his ancestral rock art sites and share the stories placed on these stone walls by his ancestors. With knowledge handed down from generation to generation, he helps to ensure that Aboriginal philosophies and lores are passed on and kept alive.
Together with intriguing rock art sites depicting mythical figures, spiritual beliefs and family stories, you will visit an ancestral Birth Site where Willie’s grandfather was born and walk on the very tracks that have been used by the Nugal people for centuries past.
Getting there:
Tours leave from Cooktown and self-drive options are also available. Cooktown is situated 235km north of Cairns and is easily accessed by road and air.
By train:
Travel to Cairns onboard the Tilt Train or The Sunlander. To book your rail adventure call Traveltrain Holidays on 1800 627 655.
Further information:
Guurrbi Tours leave every day from Monday to Saturday.
Ph 07 4069 6043
#91
I WILL NEVER FORGET THE EXPERIENCE WHEN WILLIE GORDON EXPLAINED TO ME AND MY WIFE THE MEANING OF THE PAINTINGS. THESE PAINTINGS WERE USED AND ARE USED FOR INSTRUCTION. THEY ARE EDUCATIONAL. THERE IS A LOT OF WISDOM IN THEM. EVEN PEOPLE WHO DISCARD THE SPIRITUALITY OF MAN CAN AND WILL ENJOY THIS FANTASTIC TOUR. WILLIE UNDERSTANDS THE ABORIGINAL AND THE MODERN AUSTRALIAN CULTURES. HE IS A BRIDGE BETWEEN CIVILIZATIONS. JAN DE NIE JDENIE@PLANET.NL
#92
Our day with Willie was a highlight of our month touring northern Queensland. Much more than a tour, it was also an enriching human exerience. Thanks Willie for sharing with us.
#93
Willie is an inspiration. Every Australian should experience his philosophy and approach to reconciliation.
#94
We went on a tour with Willie in October and had the most wonderful time and a great philisophical discussion. He is a great person, with a good heart and it was wonderful to hear him talk and hear his views.
#95
I thought it was great!! I could go on the walk 100 times more!!! I didn't even get tired!! Willy rocks!!!!It was so interesting!!! Guurrbi tours rock!! Enrique 8yrs old
#96
I have always held a deep respect and admiration for our indigenous people and I was raised during the time of 'Stolen Generation'. I understand the tribulations of many of them. Willie demonstrated many skills and shared the lore of his people that I had previously only had a fleeting understanding. Willie is a great man and storyteller. I have recommended his tour far and wide.
#97
This is a wonderful tour given by a wonderful man.
#98
Outstanding, Outstanding. undoubtedly the best and most informative tour I have participated in.
#99
By the end of Willie's tour, you will have a true sense of what his country, family, and culture is all about. You will feel enriched, inspired, perhaps a bit more tolerant and, if you paid close attention, you will definitely be wiser.
#100
Being able to experience some of our indigenous heritage and culture is very rewarding.