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
#31
What we, as high school students, learnt from Willie was absolutely invaluable. His way of teaching us about his world is unique and unforgettable. We will remember his tour and its positive message for the rest of our lives.
#32
Willie showed our family, and particularly our teenage children, the true meaning of reconciliation. He is an inspiration!
#33
Willie Gordon of Guurrbi Tours explained in great details the meaning behind the art, and gave great unique insight into Aboriginal spirtuality and survival. Describing native plants and animals, plus complementary snack of green ants and native plants. So informative, relaxed and well worth every moment. the Nugal rock art sites for secret men and womens business. I would do this again and can only recommend to all interstate friends and travellers.
#34
Queenslands finest!
#35
It is 18 months since visiting Cape York and of all the great experiences on that trip and many others into remote parts of Australia in the past 20 years I will always rate my walk with Willie as one of the greatest,informative and enjoyable few hours of my life. The way he imparts the history, knowledge and culture of his ancestors and current family is absolutely beyond compare. My daughter, Alex, then aged 9 also enjoyed her time with Willie immensely.
#36
The most life changing experience I have had I came away a better and enriched person for sharing this journey with Willie
#37
Excellent tour, one of the best we have ever been on.
#38
This is the true Australia, every Australian and tourist should treat themselves to such a wonderful experience.
#39
It´s a really MUST-DO!! Go there and enjoy the tour with Willie - he´s a really unforgetable storyteller!!!!
#40
This is not simply a tour, Willy takes you back to the common roots of all mankind, where things that really matter in life lie: the meaning of birth, death, manhood, motherhood, friendship....