Over the next several days, here are some of the locations you will visit:
WURRUMIYANGA (TIWI ISLANDS)
Visit remote Bathurst Island, where with local Tiwi guides we learn of the unique culture and visit the art centre. Be welcomed with a cultural performance and basket-weaving exhibition before enjoying a traditional Australian afternoon tea of damper and billy tea.
PIRLANGIMPI (TIWI ISLANDS)
Today visit remote Melville Island and learn about both traditional and contemporary art on a visit to wholly Indigenous-owned Munupi Arts at Pirlangimpi. We will have the opportunity to purchase traditional Tiwi artworks including paintings, fabrics, carving, pottery, and clothing at island prices.
COBOURG PENINSULA
Discover Garig Gunak Barlu National Park on the Cobourg Peninsula. Join Park Rangers in Port Essington, famous for the failed Victoria Settlement, and explore the ruins while learning about the fascinating history of this early colonial outpost.
MANINGRIDA
Anchor in the mighty Liverpool River and travel ashore to explore the Maningrida Art Centre, museum, and the local boutique, where hand-painted textiles can be purchased.
ELCHO ISLAND: GALIWIN'KU AND GAWA
The friendly locals of Elcho Island proudly welcome us to their community this morning. Meet some of the local artists who have their unique art exhibited in the famous art galleries of the world including the Louvre. In the afternoon, visit the community and school of Gawa.
HOLE IN THE WALL AND WESSEL ISLANDS
We travel through the narrow channel between Raragala and Guluwuru Islands, known as the ‘Hole in the Wall’.
YIRRKALA ART CENTRE
Visit the spectacular Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre at Yirrkala, outside of Nhulunbuy. Here, the Yirrkala Art Centre represents Yolŋu artists from around the region.
Established in 1976 as an act of self-determination, the art center has forged a vibrant path for Yolŋu contemporary art. The museum built in 1988 houses a collection of works detailing historical artefacts and important moments, including the Message Sticks from 1935 and the Yirrkala Church Panels from 1963.
CRUISING THE GULF OF CARPENTARIA
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea with presentations by our guest lecturers. You will hear about the fascinating history of the Makassan traders and early explorers of the Arnhem Land coast.
BADU ISLAND & TORRES STRAIT
Have the unique opportunity to visit Badu Island. Visit the fabulous art center and enjoy the hospitality of the Badu islanders. We may visit additional Torres Strait Islands, such as Moa Island.
THURSDAY ISLAND (WAIBEN)
Join an informative tour of Thursday Island to learn about its interesting pearling history and multicultural influences. At Thursday Island we also have free time to explore all the island has to offer, including Gab Titui Cultural Centre and local shopping.
TIP OF CAPE YORK (PAJINKA)
Cruise to the Tip of Cape York and enjoy champagne while the sun sets.
FORBES ISLAND (WUTHARA)
Enjoy a day exploring Forbes Island, an excellent spot for swimming or snorkeling from the pristine sandy beaches. Take a walk to the grave of beche-de-mer fisherman Frederick Lancaster.
DAVIE REEF AND FLINDERS GROUP
Visit Stanley Island (Yindayin) in the Flinders Group, and view the isolated Endaen Aboriginal rock art depicting the first sailing ships to visit Queensland shores. At Davie Reef, enjoy swimming and snorkeling and observe the large seabird rookery.
LIZARD ISLAND (DYIIGURRA)
Explore secluded Lizard Island, one of the most beautiful islands on the Queensland coast. Venture into the crystal clear waters for swimming and snorkeling or take a walk along the sparkling white beach. An energetic guided walk leads to Cook’s Look – from this peak, Captain James Cook was able to sight a navigable passage through the treacherous reef after repairing the HMB Endeavour.
