General News
26 May, 2025
Indigenous hub starts
A NEW First Nations centre offering visitors a special cultural and tourism experience in the heart of the Daintree is now under construction.
The Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) has been working closely with the Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation to deliver the new $3.76 million Eastern Kuku Yalanji Bamanga Muruku tourism hub.
The project is funded through a $3.5m contribution from the Federal Government, provided in 2021 under the COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Fund, and $260,000 from the Queensland Government and is scheduled to be completed by December this year.
Through dance, art, ceremonies, tours and displays, visitors will be able to learn first-hand about one of the oldest living cultures in the world – the Eastern Kuku Yalanjiwarra.
The landmark project will provide a space for the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people to share their traditions, stories and connection to Country with visitors from around the globe, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region’s First Nations history and traditions.
By showcasing the stories and traditions of the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people, the cultural hub will create meaningful employment and business opportunities for local First Nations communities.
Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the centre would celebrate the Eastern Kuku Yalanjiwarra culture and support emerging First Nations tourism.
“Positioned in the iconic Daintree National Park (CYPAL), the hub will serve as a gateway for interstate and international visitors to connect with the stories, knowledge and deep spiritual connection the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people have with the land and sea,” he said. “We want to preserve and promote First Nations culture while ensuring sustainable tourism opportunities in one of Queensland’s most treasured natural landscapes.”
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Minister Fiona Simpson said the project was an exciting new chapter in the government’s vision to unlock more opportunities to promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
“The cultural centre is expected to become a key drawcard for the Daintree and Tropical Far North Queensland, enhancing the visitor experience while supporting the local economy,” she said.
Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation Tourism Facilitator Crag Carttling said Eastern Kuku Yalanji were already leaders in First Nations tourism with one of the highest concentrations of cultural tourism experiences anywhere in the country.
“The support for this project from the state and federal governments will make a major contribution to building on this success, putting the Port Douglas Daintree region on the map for world class eco-cultural experiences,” he said.
“Through the cultural centre and our new tour company Yalada Tours, visitors can see the oldest living rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef through the eyes of the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people and experience their connection to country stretching back 65,000 years.”
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