Mungalla Aboriginal Cattle Station

OVERVIEW

Meet the indigenous Nywaigi Aboriginal people who run Mungalla cattle station and learn of their cultural history and passion for restoring the integrity of the land. It’s about a two-hour drive north of Townsville, with ample coastal scenery to keep your eyes occupied along the way. At the other end of the ride, 2,500-acre Mungalla Station sits is a gorgeous area where the Nywaigi have lived in harmony with their environment for 45,000 years – even after European settlers disrupted their natural lifestyle in other parts of North Queensland. You will learn the fascinating story of how Irish pioneer James Cassady forged a protective relationship with the local Nywaigi when he established the station in 1901, and how the ownership of these lands has been returned to them. Over the years since, the wetlands have been restored, indigenous wildlife is flourishing once again, and the Nywaigi have grown more willing to share their cultural heritage with visitors. While here, you’ll encounter many aspects of their lifestyle and try your hand at boomerang-tossing before being served lunch

HIGHLIGHTS

• Travel north by coach to Mungalla Station and be immersed in the Nywaigi Aboriginal culture.
• Tour the property where wetlands and wildlife flourish, and the Nywaigi live in harmony with nature.
• Learn the heartening story of how this indigenous group regained ownership of land their ancestors occupied for tens of thousands of years.
• Shop for authentic Aboriginal arts and crafts and throw a boomerang, maybe even getting it to return.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes with a closed toe are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.