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Dharawal Country Experience
SOUTHERN GATEWAY – VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE (BULLI TOPS)
DHARAWAL COUNTRY EXPERIENCE
Naganbi! Destination Wollongong and the Illawarra Aboriginal Corporation (IAC) have joined hands to bring you the Dharawal Country Experience. A self-guided experience aimed at promoting and informing visitors about the history, culture, and significance of Dharawal Country in the Wollongong (Woolyungah) region of Australia.
DHARAWAL COUNTRY - LEARNING HUB
This part of the experience features a collection of a nine-video screen array at round tables located in the Visitor Centre. These screens show custom-made videos that tell the stories and history of Dharawal Country. These videos include content from the previous Jumbulla Aboriginal Interpretive Centre and new videos created by Dharawal Elders specifically for this project. They highlight the cultural significance of the area and tell stories about what Indigenous life was like growing up. The three round tables allow children and visitors can engage with fun and educational facts about Dharawal Country. This includes learning how to greet and farewell each other in the Dharawal language, providing an interactive and informative experience.
DHARAWAL COUNTRY - STORIES AND LAND
Learn about the naming of places along the Illawarra coastline and view the two large prints of original artworks created by local Aboriginal artists. These artworks were finalists in the Wollongong City Libraries’ Dharawal Country Student Art Competition. They convey the deep connection and affection young people have for Dharawal Country. Visitors can also explore informative signage that showcases local locations in their Indigenous names. Including the names of the Five Islands. This viewing platform provides a stunning 180-degree view of the coastline, allowing visitors to appreciate the unique natural features and historical importance of the area.
So, grab a coffee from next door, sit down and connect in a meaningful way with the Indigenous culture of the region and understand the significance of these places to the Dharawal people.
If you have any questions our friendly staff will be happy to help you or even just have a yarn with you. Nandawanjing!
Enquiries:
Wollongong Visitor Information Centre
Call: 02 4267 5910
Email: tourism@visitwollongong.com.au
Thank you to IMB Bank, BlueScope, and Regional NSW, for their generous backing. Along with the unwavering support of Wollongong City Council, this project has allowed the public to uncover the vast history of Dharawal Country in the Wollongong region.