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Tae Rak (Lake Condah) 2-Hour Cultural Walk

4.5 (147)

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Immerse yourselves in the ancient and unique World Heritage Listed Budj Bin Cultural Landscape with a guided walk of Tae Rak (Lake Condah). Experience the incredible beauty of this landscape while learning about the rich Gunditjmara creation story and admiring the diverse marine and bird-life of the lake. Marvel at the ancient aquaculture system of lava flows and life-filled waterways, as well as the kooyang (eel) traps meticulously designed by the Gunditjmara people, who have thrived here for over 39,000 years. Your knowledgeable guide will take you on a journey of discovery, showcasing culturally significant flora and fauna, the intricate Tae Rak landscape, and the fascinating traditions of kooyang harvesting and processing. Join this 2-hour cultural walk and be transported to a world steeped in living ancestral knowledge.

About this experience

Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
Suitable for 1-15 Participants
Private Tour, Small Group Tour
Guided Experience

Highlights

Guided walk of Tae Rak (Lake Condah)
Overview of Gunditjmara creation story
Ancient aquaculture system of lava flows
Extensive range of stone aquaculture sites and fish traps
Introduction to traditional kooyang (eel) harvesting

Included

Amenities - restroom on site

Not included

Coffee and/or tea
Snacks

Popular Hotels Closeby

More about this experience

Introduction

Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of Tae Rak (Lake Condah) on a captivating 2-hour cultural walk. This guided tour offers a fascinating insight into the ancient and unique World Heritage Listed Budj Bin Cultural Landscape. Immerse yourself in the captivating Gunditjmara creation story as your knowledgeable guide leads you through this stunning location. Marvel at the extensive marine and bird-life of the lake and discover the remarkable ancient aquaculture system of lava flows and life-filled waterways.

What to expect?

During this 2-hour cultural walk, you can expect to gain a deep understanding of the Gunditjmara people and their significant connection to this land. Your guide will share the captivating tale of the creation story and introduce you to the culturally significant flora and fauna of Tae Rak. Witness the intricate and ingenious kooyang (eel) traps, designed by the Gunditjmara, that have sustained their way of life for over 39,000 years. Embrace the tranquility of the landscape as you explore the network of aquaculture systems that were used to trap and harvest kooyang for food and trade.

Who is this for?

This cultural walk is an enriching experience suitable for anyone who appreciates history, culture, and natural landscapes. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone seeking a unique and immersive experience, this tour is for you. It is a perfect opportunity for individuals, couples, families, and groups of friends to delve into the rich cultural heritage of the Gunditjmara people and enjoy the scenic beauty of Tae Rak.

Why book this?

Embarking on this cultural walk promises an unforgettable journey into the past, connecting you with the rich history and traditions of the Gunditjmara people. Immerse yourself in their unique creation story, marvel at the well-preserved ancient aquaculture system, and appreciate the remarkable harmony between humans and nature. By booking this tour, you are not only supporting local communities but also gaining a new perspective on the world and fostering a deep appreciation for the importance of preserving cultural heritage.

Good to know

The total duration of this tour is 2 hours, providing ample time to explore and absorb the beauty of Tae Rak. The meeting point for the tour is the Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre in Breakaway Creek, Victoria. This tour includes a visit to the kooyang holding tank, processing facility, and cafe and retail space, allowing you to further connect with the local culture. Be prepared to be amazed by the incredible wildlife and panoramic views that surround the lake, making sure to bring your camera to capture these unforgettable moments.

Reviews

Travelers from around the world have praised this cultural walk, describing it as an eye-opening and immersive experience. They were captivated by the passionate storytelling of the guides and deeply moved by the ancient aquaculture system that has stood the test of time. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to learn about the Gunditjmara people and gain a greater understanding of their traditions and respect for the land. Overall, the reviews depict a truly transformative and educational experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who participate.

About this product

How long before the event do I need to book?

You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

At least one adult or senior required per booking

Additional information

Not recommended for participants with spinal injuries
Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Reviews

(147)

4.5 (147)

Davide5659

So many Ú' shaped stone house foundations all facing north. The place is great now and will only get better over time. Thanks Luke (our guide), he's knowledgeable, fun and considerate.

258jenp

Coming from a different State, our family in Tarrington suggested visiting this World Heritage Site with us, as they had previously visited, and were blown away. We did the tour with Reuben, and boy it was a real eye opener. Reuben's knowledge of the area, and the history he imparted, was something that every Australian, and overseas visitors, should experience at least once in their lives. Reuben is an incredible voice, and we all said we would gladly go back and do this tour, as well as other tours available, again.... and again. What a hidden gem that needs to be more prominently advertised.

Kerry_P

It would have been nice to have received a recommendation to do an eel sample which we heard about by reading the reviews today. We came a long way to have a genuine experience and it doesn’t measure up in value to what’s on offer elsewhere around Australia.

P4200UIfionas

Our 2 our session was excellent: info on the life cycle of eels was interesting and information on indigenous culture fascinating. Our guide was very entertaining and knowledgeable. The centre itself is a beautiful building - it is out in the sticks but well worth making the trip. I wish that we had time to have done the full day tour. So much to learn!

LauXav

This is a truly marvellous cultural tour. Reuben our guide was extremely knowledgeable explaining the life cycle of the eels of Lake Conda. He also spoke with pride about his ancestral connection to the area with relevance to eel aquaculture, smoking eel and constructed homes where his elders lived. Lake Condah is absolutely pristine, we saw many water birds, even a pair of sea eagles. Well worth the visit.

helensY4221WF

Rubin, our tour guide, warmly welcomed us. He explained the life cycle of the eel and the importance it played in his culture. We were shown the way eels were trapped, kept cool and cured and how his mob practiced sustainability. He shared his vision of the aquaculture centre. I thoroughly enjoyed the tour and gained a deeper understanding of First Nations earlier life.

485colinm

Met at Tae Rak (Lake Condah) early in the morning. A little difficult to find the correct road. Profusion of birdlife on the lake. Impressive Centre with eel pond. Led by Luke, amicable and easy going who had extensive knowledge of the cultural practices, nature and history of the area. Learnt more about the history of the effects of colonization and the various missions that people were removed from. The overall volcanic terrain with 40 000 years of history in which habitation has been documented through dwelling and farming aquaculture eg eel traps. Privileged to be shown around Indigenous Protected Areas by Luke. The projects of restoration and of the wetlands and cultural practices of the area give us vital knowledge of the Indigenous people.

Merril_D

Knowledge of the guide, respect for culture. Sensitivity of infrastructure and main building design.

simonm644

The tour was informative and passionate. It featured some great storytelling. It would be even better if it explained the tour program from the outset, if it provided a conclusion, and if it avoided random stories about First Nations inventors that are filled with disdain from a lack of recognition it no suggested proactive way forward. Such great content deserves a better conclusion and suggested proactive response from us - what can we do to assist the local mob prosper.

JeffT908

Amazing talk - so informative re the First Nations history and culture. We were taken to the eel traps and live eel storage ponds. Learnt that the eels travel down the streams to the sea and spawn in the Coral Sea near Vanuatu. Then the elvers swim back to this area. Just incredible. Opened our eyes as to how the First Nations people in this area worked with nature and nurtured it for many 1000's of years. A most rewarding experience. Barb & Jeff

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2024-07-04 06:14