Hamilton Island has unveiled a new Cultural Island Discovery tour, delving deep into the heritage of the Whitsunday Islands, guided by Indigenous local Robbie Congoo. This four-hour experience transports visitors to the Ngaro Cultural Site, where ancient artefacts and cave paintings whisper tales of the past, celebrating the region’s natural beauty alongside the rich traditions of the Ngaro People.
Guests embark on their adventure aboard the private vessel Pebble Beach, sailing from Hamilton Island Museum to Hook Island. Upon arrival, a traditional smoking ceremony welcomes them—a powerful ritual that honours the spirits of the land and its ancestors, setting the stage for a profound connection with the site and its stories.
During the journey, guests are guided by Congoo through lush flora and fauna as he recounts his ancestors’ survival techniques on the water. The Ngaro were renowned for their expertise in fishing and hunting, navigating the coastline in bark outrigger canoes, forging a deep bond with the land and sea—past meets present in his tales of sustenance and skill.
Congoo further explains the significance of local materials, including a rare volcanic stone quarried uniquely on South Molle Island, used for tool-making by the Ngaro. Each artefact and rock painting carries stories that have transcended millennia, revealing insights into a way of life that is intrinsically linked to the cultural tapestry of the region.
As the adventure unfolds, the fusion of cultural tales and natural beauty deepens guests’ appreciation for the spiritual heritage of the Ngaro people. The tour culminates on Pebble Beach where gourmet canapes, designed by qualia’s executive chef in collaboration with Congoo, celebrate native Australian flavours—an homage to the Ngaro’s culinary legacy mixing culture with cuisine.
Hamilton Island CEO Nick Dowling emphasises the tour’s cultural significance, suggesting it paints an innovative portrait of The Whitsundays as seen through the eyes of its original custodians. Dowling expresses hope that this unique experience fosters deep connections to the lands and their profound histories.
Hamilton Island introduces the Cultural Island Discovery tour, led by Indigenous guide Robbie Congoo. This four-hour expedition takes visitors to the Ngaro Cultural Site, exploring ancient artefacts and rock paintings. Guests are immersed in stories of the Ngaro People’s maritime skills and traditions while enjoying gourmet canapes. The experience aims to deepen connections to the land and its first custodians.
The Cultural Island Discovery tour at Hamilton Island offers an immersive glimpse into the heritage of the Ngaro People, blending nature with storytelling. Guided by Robbie Congoo, guests explore ancient sites while developing a meaningful connection to Indigenous traditions and culinary experiences. This initiative represents an important step towards honouring and preserving the cultural legacy of the region, enriching the visitor experience with authentic Indigenous perspectives.
Original Source: travelweekly.com.au
