Explore Culture in the Botanic Gardens

Step into a 2-hour immersive program with Gumaraa at Wollongong Botanical Gardens. This hands-on Aboriginal learning experience brings First Nations culture to life through storytelling, practical activities, and connection to Country. Guided by experienced Aboriginal educators, participants will engage with practices passed down through generations — celebrating land, water, and community.

WHAT TO EXPECT 

• Bush Tucker Exploration: Guided walk to identify native plants used for food and medicine, with hands-on tasting when in season. Learn how Aboriginal knowledge of Country informs survival and wellbeing.

•  Traditional Shelter Building: Construct small shelters using natural materials while learning sustainable techniques developed over thousands of years.

•  Mini Canoe-Making Demonstration: Create a mini bark canoe and explore the cultural significance of water travel, trade, and storytelling.

•  Oral Traditions & Dreaming Stories: Listen to powerful Dreamtime stories around a yarning circle and discover their connection to the land, waterways, and community.

•  Reflection & Closing Ceremony: Group reflection, Q&A, and closing words from guides to consolidate learning and cultural understanding.

WHAT IS INCLUDED 

• Guidance and storytelling from experienced Aboriginal educators.

•  Hands-on activities with all materials provided.

•  Insights into Aboriginal culture, traditions, and connection to Country.

•  A safe and inclusive environment suitable for a wide range of age groups.

WHAT TO BRING 

• Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity.

•  Closed-toe shoes for safety during bushwalks and activities.

•  Water bottle to stay hydrated.

•  Curiosity, creativity, and respect for cultural practices.

•  Optional: camera or phone to capture your experience.

This program is an authentic, educational, and memorable way to engage with Aboriginal culture, build cultural awareness, and connect with the world’s oldest living traditions.