To celebrate Indigenous Business Month, Intrepid Travel has joined forces with Welcome to Country, a not-for-profit marketplace for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiences and products, to deliver a number of free First Nations tourism experiences across Narrm (Melbourne) and Warrane (Sydney).
In recognition of this year’s Indigenous Business Month theme ‘To Gather, Together’, each experience will see guests connecting to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture through immersive activities delivered by First Nations owned businesses.
Sydneysiders can enjoy a stroll through The Rocks in the heart of Warrane and learn the history and Dreaming of Eora Country with Aunty Margaret, while Melbournians can flex their creativity in a jewellery making workshop with Wiradjuri mixed media artist Ange Jeffrey.
There are 100 free spots available in each city, encouraging Aussies to engage in a First Nations experience during Indigenous Business Month.
Welcome To Country CEO, Desmond Campbell (Jangala/Gojok), a proud Gurindji and Ngalakan-Alawa man, said, “The theme for IBM and this activation resonates deeply within Welcome to Country, a thriving not-for-profit marketplace that stands at the forefront of promoting First Nations entrepreneurship and continuity of culture through sustainable tourism”.
Managing director ANZ at Intrepid Travel, Brett Mitchell said, “Australia is home to the oldest living cultures on earth, and tourism experiences designed, led or owned by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people offer travellers an immersive way to engage with the rich stories and experiences that are unique to this land.
“We’re excited to partner with Welcome to Country to elevate First Nations tourism businesses and celebrate their immense contribution to the Australian travel industry.”
This activity is an extension of Intrepid and Welcome to Country’s existing partnership which focuses on cross-industry initiatives to grow economic opportunities in Australia’s First Nations tourism sector and further cultural understanding through the joy of travel.
Participants can book their First Nations experience here. Learn more about the activities on offer across Sydney and Melbourne below.
Sydney: The Rocks Aboriginal Dreaming Tour – Illi Langi
Dates: 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th October
Time: 10am
Duration: 90 minutes
This walkabout around The Rocks, on the edge of Sydney Harbour uncovers the authentic history of the Aboriginal people’s saltwater heritage within Sydney Harbour. Their land and water use and their spiritual connection to the adjoining waterways and foreshores. First Nations guides will demonstrate how the place we now know as Sydney continues to weave the Dreamtime Southern X text into its modern, built up environment. Get set to discover how to experience contemporary Aboriginal culture right in the heart of cosmopolitan Sydney.
Melbourne: Jewellery making workshop
Dates: 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th October
Time: 10am
Duration: 90 minutes
Immerse in the creative experience during a jewellery making workshop with Wiradjuri mixed media artist Ange Jeffery. Combining cultural learning and creative practice, participants will learn basic jewellery making techniques, using natural materials such as seeds, nuts and shells to create unique pieces.
