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
#111
Willie from Guurrbi Tours took me into the bush, told me amazing stories from his Aborginal family, ate ants in front of me and generally gave an outstanding tour. I had a brilliant morning and it was one of the highlights of our 3 month trip! Highly recommended. Not to be missed.
#112
Greatest experience in 20 years of travelling around Australia. Willie is a true ambassador for his people and an inspiration for the tourist industry in Queensland and Australia.
#113
Absolutely inspirational. One of the best things I've ever done.
#114
Sheila and I travelled by camper van from Perth, north and around to Brisbane - 10300 kilometers. 10 weeks having made a 6 week visit some years ago. We are in love with your wonderful country and people. When we met Willie we began to gain respect and some understanding for the culture, lore and pride of Australia's first people. His small tour and his questions, stories and dreams (past, present and future) was the most interesting and intriguing time of all - 2 hours.
#115
You cannot truly appreciate,respect or understand Aboriginal culture, history, lifestyle and survival of 50,000 years, living with our mother nature, until you have visited Wille and his Ancestors.
#116
A great tour - both for residents and visitors to the Cooktown region. Our family and friends have thoroughly enjoyed the tours.
#117
I was fortunate enough to do Willie's tour as part of a visit by State dignity. Living locally we take things for granted. and dont realise the treasures we have. I found Willie captivating as he shares his stories and his country with guests. I recommend Willie Gordons Guurrbi tour to everyone both locals and visitors
#118
Willie you are a true gem. If you could only choose one experience when you visit Queensland this is the ONE! It is a true blue must do experience that should be obligatory for every Australian.
#119
This is the best trip I have done in Australia. I learnt more about the true Australia and its early peoples and way of life on this three hour trip, than I have living in this lovely land for the past 44 years.
#120
This is the experience of a life time. It is not touristy but a genuine life changing experience. It can touch you spiritually,aid understanding and assist reconciliation. It is a unique experience that has altered my life forebver.