A new First Nations centre in the heart of a World Heritage-listed wonder, the Wet Tropics of Queensland, and the iconic Daintree National Park (CYPAL), is now under construction.
Queensland’s 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 $3.5 million 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 complete by December this year.
This 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.
Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell said the centre will 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,” Minister Powell said.
“We wantto preserve and promote First Nations culture while ensuring sustainable tourism opportunities in one of Queensland’s most treasured natural landscapes.”
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, 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,” Minister Simpson said.
“We want to provide more opportunities for Traditional Owners to share their rich culture with the world, and what better way to achieve that than providing a space for immersive experiences to be offered On Country.”
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.”
