Journey through nhanda Country
In the Nhanda language, Kurlaji Wangga means ‘rivergum talk.’
Join Colleen Drage, Nhanda elder and cultural leader on a tagalong tour that follows the Murchison River, from where the Kalbarri Skywalk overlooks the ancient gorges, to the place where the river it meets the ocean. Along the way Colleen shares knowledge of her culture and visits culturally significant places, sharing stories of her experiences growing up on country.
A Connection to Country
The Nhanda people, also spelt Nanda, Nhunda, Nhanta are the Aboriginal people of this mid-west region of Western Australia. On 28 November 2018, after a 24-year battle, Nhanda people were recognised as the traditional owners of more than 17,000 km2 of land and water in the Yamatji region, a process in which Colleen played a pivotal role as a cultural voice.
As an artist, Colleen is strongly influenced by her connection to country. Many of her artworks feature prominently at The Kalbarri Skywalk site and other cultural and public attractions throughout Kalbarri.
A Taste of Nhanda Life & Culture
Explore the beauty and biodiversity of Nhanda country and learn about the abundance of seasonal bushfoods it provided to the Nhanda people for tens of thousands of years. Sample quandong fruit, sandalwood nuts and ‘cogla’ (woody pear), when seasonally available. Hear stories of goat mustering, growing up on Murchison House Station and how life was for the Nhanda people during the 1950’s and 60’s.
A Glimpse into the History & Culture of the Region
See and experience a different side of Kalbarri, from a cultural interpretation of the art installments at the Kalbarri Skywalk, to foraging for traditional bushfoods and learning about traditional medicine plants. Colleen shares yarns around the campfire about growing up on Country at Murchison House Station, where her father, Clayton Drage, worked mustering goats . Colleen shares a rare insight into the social history of one of WA’s favourite holiday towns from a very unique perspective.
