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
#71
Everyone needs to spend time with someone as amazing as Willie once in their life. I have questioned alot of my "belief" and answered alot of my questions about the "BIG" stuff!!! This tour should be on everyones "bucket list"
#72
A great way to learn more about the Aboriginal history.
#73
I have never experienced such an amazing inspirational tour in all my life! Experiencing true culture first hand is something I will never forget. I was so moved by the stories told by Willy that I quietly shed a tear. What made the tour even more special was Willy's incredible natural ability to connect with everybody!! Willy is a special man whose skills are second to none. DO NOT MISS THIS TOUR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
#74
Willy The tour was GREAT thanks for all the interesting information about your ancestors Enrique 9 years old
#75
I didn't realise till this year that there were so many different tribes of Australian aboriginals, each with their own language, culture, laws, history and stories. Take every opportunity to learn from such tours as this.
#76
The tour gave me a lifetime of memories
#77
Willie conducted a very interesting and informative tour. He took time to explain each aspect of the rock art. We certainly did not feel like sausages being put through a tourist machine. He also cared for each person on the tour, and for our comfort and safety. Well done Willie, and thank you.
#78
Cannot rate it highly enough, I nominate Willie as a candidate for rating as a national treasure.
#79
My wife and two friends travelled to Cooktown October 2007 from Cairns a experience to be seen. We are doing it again 2009 to see much more.
#80
I realise how valuable the message conveyed by Willie is to everyone. Therefore I recommend Willie's tour to all my local and overseas friends.