December 6th 2017
Departing Brisbane City at 9:00am, returning at 5:00pm
Quandamooka Dancers
Quandamooka Kangaroos
As some of you may be aware, there is a very strong Aboriginal community on North Stradbroke Island, the Quandamooka, and they often hold events, festivals and activities to celebrate their culture and customs. This is one event which promises to be exciting and different. It is a day boat cruise which starts in the Brisbane River with a traditional welcome from the Yuggera, Brisbane's very own Aboriginal group.
The boat will cruise up the Brisbane River. On the cruise, you will hear stories from Aboriginal guides. The boat will then enter Moreton Bay which is considered to be Quandamooka Country and will finally arrive in Minjerribah, North Stradbroke Island.
The coastline in North Stradbroke
The cruise will be an opportunity not only to enjoy the beautiful and calm waters of the bay, but also to listen to Aboriginal stories and to participate in weaving, playing the didgeridoo and learning about customs.
Once on the island, you will be welcomed in a traditional smoking ceremony by the Quandamooka people who have been known to inhabit these areas for thousands of years.
A rainbow in Minjerribah
Lunch will be a Quandamooka delight with local chef Kieron Anderson serving bush foods in a feast of seafood, meats and fruits. It promises to be authentic and delicious.
There are various optional activities available for after lunch which will appeal to all groups, whether you want to hone your skills in boomerang throwing or go on a cliff top walk or try and spot some of the local wildlife.
The Brown Lake
For me, the best is left till last, which is the visit to the beautiful Brown Lake - a place of considerable significance and worship in Aboriginal culture particularly for the women. This is a beautiful spot on the island; brown because of the tannins in the water from the fallen leaves of the tea tree. One of many of the perched lakes in Moreton Bay. Some local groups will sing traditional songs and gently bring the festivities to a close.
The boat returns to Brisbane at about 5.00 pm.
What a full and exciting programme offered on this one single day - take advantage and book your tickets
HERE
