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Bataluk Cultural Trail: A Journey Through Gunaikurnai Country

Discover the ancient stories and living culture of the Gunaikurnai people along East Gippsland's Bataluk Cultural Trail. A journey through time and tradition.

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Explore the Bataluk Cultural Trail in East Gippsland and immerse yourself in the living culture and history of the Gunaikurnai people, who have called this land home for over 30,000 years. Discover Dreamtime stories, traditional lifestyles, and the impact of European settlement on this ancient landscape.

A brief summary to Bataluk Cultural Trail

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Bataluk Cultural Trail website for detailed site information, cultural sensitivity guidelines, and potential access restrictions before you go.
  • The Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place in Bairnsdale is an excellent starting point for learning about Gunaikurnai culture and history.
  • Be mindful and respectful of the environment and cultural significance of each site along the trail.
  • Consider the time of year, as some sites may have seasonal closures or be more accessible during certain months.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Bataluk Cultural Trail within Bairnsdale is easily accessible by foot. From the Bairnsdale train station or the town center, it's a short walk to Howitt Park on the Mitchell River, a significant site along the trail. Follow the signs and pathways along the riverfront to explore the canoe tree and enjoy the scenic views. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Bairnsdale is accessible by V/Line train and bus services. From the Bairnsdale train station, the Bataluk Cultural Trail sites within the town are a short walk or taxi ride away. Public transport within Bairnsdale itself is limited, so walking or taxi/rideshare options are more practical for reaching specific sites. A short taxi ride from the station to the Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place would cost approximately $10-$15 AUD.

  • Driving

    If driving, Bairnsdale is located on the Princes Highway. Follow the highway and look for signs directing you to the town center and the Mitchell River. Parking is generally available in Bairnsdale, with free parking options in Howitt Park and along the riverfront. Some parking restrictions may apply, so check signage. There are no tolls on the immediate approach to Bairnsdale. Parking is typically free for several hours.

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Discover more about Bataluk Cultural Trail

The Bataluk Cultural Trail offers a unique opportunity to connect with the Gunaikurnai people and their rich heritage in East Gippsland. This trail weaves through significant Aboriginal sites, revealing stories from the Dreamtime to the present day. The name 'Bataluk' itself comes from the Gunaikurnai word for lizard. Following traditional routes used for millennia, the trail connects the mountains to the north with the lakes and ocean to the south, mirroring the ancient paths and trading routes of the Gunaikurnai. The modern South Gippsland and Princes Highways now form the backbone of this network. Along the Bataluk Cultural Trail, you can visit places like the Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place in Bairnsdale, a museum showcasing artifacts and Indigenous art. Hear the legend of the 'White Woman's Waterhole' at Won Wron State Forest, or explore the Den of Nargun in Mitchell River National Park, a sacred site for Gunaikurnai women. The trail invites visitors to understand and appreciate the Gunaikurnai's deep connection to the land, their traditions, and their ongoing story. Whether you choose to explore the entire trail or select specific sites, the Bataluk Cultural Trail promises a meaningful and enriching cultural experience.

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