East Arnhem is home to the Yolŋu Aboriginal people who have lived in the region for 60,000 years. One of the highlights of a visit to East Arnhem is the opportunity to immerse yourself in their ancient culture and language.
But if you're not sure where to start when it comes to organising a cultural experience to remember, here are three top ways to get started.
A visit to Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka
An easy 15-minute drive from Nhulunbuy airport and Nhulunbuy township is the world-renowned Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka Art Centre in the Yirrkala community. This is where you can get experiencetraditional and contemporary Yolŋu culture. The art centre features a fabulous gallery space where you can view a range of pieces in various mediums – from burial poles to bark paintings, screen printing and pandanus weaving. It also hosts a museum providing visitors with an array of cultural and artist history and information, and some pieces of significance including the Yirrkala church panels and replicas of the Bark Petitions. Visitors often have the opportunity to watch artists work or interact with the talented screen-printing crew.
Garma Festival
Garma Festival is held annually in East Arnhem and is a significant celebration of Yolŋu culture. For four days guests are immersed in daily buŋgul (traditional song and dance), have the opportunity to participate in spear and yidaki (didgeridu) making workshops, take astronomy and bushwalking tours with Yolŋu guides, buy art from around the region, and listen to keynote speakers. This is an event not to be missed for those interested in learning more about Yolŋu culture, and engaging in policy and political discussions about Indigenous affairs.
BAWAKA EXPERIENCE
Bawaka Experience offers something for everyone when it comes to experiencing the culture of East Arnhem. With a range of beachfront accommodation at spectacular Bawaka Homeland about 90 minutes from Nhulunbuy, learn firsthand from Yolŋu guides about country and culture. Tours provide a cultural immersion experience like no other, living with the family on their traditional homeland and sharing in their daily life and activities. This is a truly special experience.
