Exploring Western Australia’s Aboriginal Heritage

Western Australia is a land of rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, offering travellers a unique opportunity to delve into the heart of Aboriginal experiences. From ancient rock art in the Kimberley to the vibrant cultural history of Gnowangerup,  this vast state is home to a diverse array of Indigenous traditions and stories. If you’re heading on a road trip through Western Australia don’t forget to add these must-see locations that not only showcase the heritage of our state, but also provide profound insights into the enduring cultural legacy of Australia’s First Peoples. These top places offer a deeper appreciation of the land and its traditional custodians.

Australia’s South West

Start your South West trip in picturesque Mandurah. In addition to soaking up the scenic sights of the foreshore,  stop over at the Mandurah Museum to step back into time. You’ll start your journey in time when Aboriginal people were the only inhabitants of the region and continue on a journey from European settlement to the birth of the region’s fishing industry. While here be sure to immerse yourself in the local stories of the region’s Aboriginal custodians which feature memories and stories of Aboriginal Elders. 

Continue your journey south and stop over at Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre.  Here you can immerse yourself in Noongar history, as you move through a video projection of rippling water and soak up the displays about the traditional owners, shipwrecks, exploration, and whalers through to more recent history. While in Bunbury you can also indulge in a scenic drive along Seven Hills Road as it snakes along the valley. At the end of the road is the community of Roelands Village sharing Aboriginal culture and stories. 

Further inland, you can stop over at Ngowanjerindji -  a place where you can soak up the history and culture of the Noongar people in Gnowangerup. Nearby is also the Ongerup and Needilup District Museum which features a unique display of Noongar foods and medicines, wildflower collection and settler history. You can also stop over at Kodja Place which shares stories and items from many of Kojonup’s citizens, Noongars and Non-Indigenous alike. 

Australia’s North West

Heading to Australia’s North West? Unearth a mixture of art and Aboriginal heritage with these must-see Aboriginal experiences featuring Indigenous artists, stories and histories. 

If you’re more interested in languages, pay a visit to the Wangka Maya Aboriginal Language Centre in South Hedland. Servicing over 30 language groups of the Pilbara, Wangka Maya shares how its preserving their local language, culture and story for their younger generations. 

For a more immersive experience, look no further than Nyamba Buru Yawuru - a place representing the Yawuru people, the traditional owners of the country around Broome. They’ve curated a collection and share unique exhibitions and interpretative experiences including walking trails, tours and public art to rekindle their cultural traditions. The Mowanjum Aboriginal Art and Culture Centre also celebrates and shares their culture through dance, songs, art and story by sharing and teaching young people.  They also host the annual Mowanjum Festival in the July school holidays which is one of Australia’s longest running Indigenous cultural festivals. 
Want more inspiration for places for Aboriginal Cultural Experiences in Australia’s North West?  Take a list of our top 10 recommendations in the Kimberley and the Pilbara region.

Australia’s Golden Outback

Australia's Golden Outback is a region steeped in rich history and vibrant culture, offering travellers a tapestry of experiences that reveal the depth of its heritage. Your adventure begins at the Old Newcastle Gaol. Located in Toodyay, lies this fascinating relic of the 19th century where you can step back in time and imagine life as a prisoner. The museum’s cramped, haunting cells vividly illustrate the harsh realities of incarceration, with the Aboriginal cell standing out for its particularly sombre history. 

Next, immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Ballardong Nyoongar people at Bilya Koort Boodja in Northam. This modern cultural centre is a beacon of pride and resilience, celebrating Noongar heritage through interactive displays and a compelling Welcome to Country ceremony. The centre’s exhibits on the Noongar six-seasons calendar, traditional artefacts, and personal stories shared in yarning circles provide a comprehensive and moving experience, deepening your understanding of the region’s Aboriginal culture.

From cultural enrichment, shift your focus to the historical remnants of the Goldfields by visiting the Gwalia Ghost Town. This abandoned mining settlement offers a tangible connection to the past, where you can explore the preserved buildings of the old Sons of Gwalia Mine and learn about the boom-and-bust history of this once-thriving community. 

To further enrich your cultural journey, the Laverton Outback Art Gallery is a must-visit. This gallery showcases a stunning array of Indigenous artworks, offering a glimpse into the artistic traditions and contemporary expressions of Aboriginal culture. The vibrant paintings and sculptures reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region, providing a visual feast that complements your historical explorations.

Australia’s Coral Coast 

Heading up north? Break up the drive with some cultural treasure troves!! Start your journey with the Irwin Districts Historical Society in Dongara, where the old police house and courtrooms now house a fascinating collection. Explore the haunting cells, including those used for Indigenous prisoners awaiting transport to Rottnest Island Prison, and view historical artefacts in the old stables.

Next, head to the Museum of Geraldton, located on the picturesque Batavia Coast Marina. This museum provides a comprehensive overview of the region’s history, from Indigenous heritage to the development of local fishing and pastoral industries. Its collection of Dutch shipwreck artefacts, including those from the infamous Batavia, offers a gripping look at maritime history.

Continue your exploration at the Carnarvon Heritage Group. This precinct includes several key attractions, such as the Railway Museum, Shearing Hall of Fame, Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage, and the One Mile Jetty Centre. These sites collectively tell the story of Carnarvon’s evolution from a pastoral hub to a crucial port, with highlights including the One Mile Jetty and a memorial to Aboriginal people imprisoned on nearby islands.

Finally, visit the Gwoonwardu Mia Gascoyne Aboriginal Heritage and Cultural Centre, which celebrates the culture of five Gascoyne Aboriginal language groups. The centre features engaging exhibits, art installations, and a gallery shop, providing a vibrant showcase of local Aboriginal heritage.