New Byron Bay Indigenous Walking Tour provides unique perspective millennia in the making

Dianne Bortoletto Published January 11, 2025 at 2.00pm (AWST)

Byron Bay has a new walking tour which provides visitors with an Indigenous perspective of the coastline around the iconic Byron Bay Lighthouse.

Run by award-winning Indigenous tour operator, Explore Byron Bay, the two-and-a-half-hour tour covers the 3.7-kilometre Walgun Cape Byron Lighthouse Loop Trail.

The tour is led by business owner and Arakwal Bundjalung woman, Delta Kay, and includes powerful Dreaming stories which offer insights into the cultural and spiritual significance of the surrounding landscapes.

"The Lighthouse, of course, is such a European symbol, and the fact that we can infuse the Aboriginal narrative into the experience provides a truly unique viewpoint that will give visitors a much richer perspective of the Byron region," Ms Kay said.

Ms Kay's ancestors have lived in the area surrounding Byron Bay for thousands of years and passed down Arakwal customs, knowledge, ceremonies and stories to her for safe keeping.

"Our tours are a meaningful blend of culture, nature, and inspiration—perfect for anyone seeking a deeper appreciation of Byron Bay's heritage," Ms Kay said.

"There are opportunities to learn some Bundjalung language and we explore native bush foods, natural medicine, tools, weapons and artefacts.

"I want people to leave my tours with a deeper understanding of how my family have always cared for the land, and are still caring for it.

"I believe this understanding leads to a stronger feeling of belonging for our locals and a deeper respect from visitors who want to connect with Indigenous people and learn about this incredible place we call Byron."

Beginning at Clarkes Beach, the tour takes guests up the Tallow Ridge Walking Track through serene coastal rainforests before reaching the Cape Byron Lighthouse, revealing breathtaking panoramic views of the region.

The tour then follows the Cape Byron Walking Track past Australia's most easterly point, Wategos Beach, The Pass and then returns to Clarkes Beach.

Guests also have an opportunity to learn about native bush foods and natural medicine and may spot native wildlife such dolphins, koalas, sea eagles and wallabies along the way.

Established five years ago, Explore Byron Bay offers Indigenous-themed tours of Walgun (Cape Byron), Bangalow, and Broken Head.

Last year, Explore Byron Bay won gold for Excellence in Cultural Tourism in the Northern NSW Tourism Awards, an award recognising tour operators that foster a greater understanding and appreciation of authentic culture, history, heritage and the arts.

More information is available online.

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National Indigenous Times

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