CULTURAL TOUR OF MURUJUGA HIGHLIGHTS FOR CORAL ADVENTURER PASSENGERS

Coral Expedition small cruise boats land on Murujuga Sea Country PC: MAC

BY ASAD KHAN

Around 100 passengers aboard the Coral Expeditions’ Coral Adventurer recently embarked on a cultural tour of Murujuga, a significant region known for its ancient rock art and rich Indigenous heritage.

The passengers had the opportunity to explore the area's historical landmarks, engage with Indigenous culture, and learn from the Murujuga Rangers.

The tour offered a unique experience, allowing guests to connect with the local culture through the discovery of ancient rock art and artefacts. Passengers were also invited to swim in the pristine waters and shop from local businesses run by MAC (Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation) members, providing an opportunity to support Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs.

This visit marks the first of four planned cruise stops to Murujuga in 2025, part of Coral Expeditions' commitment to showcasing Indigenous cultural heritage.

Expedition Leader Wayne Hamilton on Murjugah Sea Country PC: Asad Khan

Expedition Leader Wayne Hamilton described the cultural engagement as one of the most memorable aspects of the journey.

“This is our only Indigenous engagement on this trip, so it’s really important that we get it right. And we have with this one. The feedback from everyone so far has been awesome,” he said.

Payungu Elder Rachael Cooyou displaying her work to cruise passengers PC: Asad Khan

Payungu Elder Rachael Cooyou also shared her perspective on the importance of sharing Indigenous history and culture with the world.

Speaking with Ngaarda Media, she emphasised the significance of educating non-Indigenous visitors about the country’s ancient past.

“Non-Indigenous tourists come over this way to see the country, and as everyone knows, this country was here many, many years before non-Indigenous people arrived,

“It’s great that people of this generation are learning the stories of the past, which are still alive today, written in the rock art of beautiful Murujuga,” she said.

Murjuga Ranger interacting with the cruise passengers before the cultural tour PC: MAC

The Coral Adventurer’s visit is part of an ongoing effort to foster cultural understanding and appreciation, offering passengers a rare and meaningful insight into Australia’s ancient heritage.