An initiative, instigated by Reflections Holiday Parks and Crown Lands, is expected to deliver a raft of cultural activities in its locales throughout the region.
After working with several Indigenous organisations, the success of the Aboriginal Tourism Experiences Pilot Program – which includes bush tucker gardens and creative workshops – was celebrated at Reflections Jimmys Beach on Friday 1 September.
The unveiling of an art trail created by Worimi artist Tyson Jolly also marked the occasion.
Reflections is a Crown Lands manager that maintains 9,300 hectares of public land (94% of it is nature reserve, the rest where its holiday parks operate) and reinvests all profits back into areas in its care.
The pilot program, part of Reflections’ Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), is the first of four RAPs endorsed by Reconciliation Australia.
RAP outcomes include partnerships between Reflections and local Aboriginal communities and native title holders in 37 parks located in 12 Indigenous nations: Bundjalung, Yaegl, Gumbaynggirr, Birpai, Worimi, Awabakal, Darkinjung, Yuin, Kamilaroi, Wonnarua, Wiradjuri and Ngunawal.
CEO Nick Baker said the RAP and Aboriginal Tourism Experiences Pilot Program had grown cultural awareness with park guests and among staff, who will also have an opportunity to undergo cultural training.
“What I’d like to see in every single park is that we have a relationship with the local communities and Indigenous operators that offer experiences that they want to share with our guests,” he explained.
Port Stephens MP Kate Washington applauded the scheme.
“The cultural art trail at Jimmys Beach is an exciting initiative that will have many benefits locally and beyond,” she said.
“Reflections’ Cultural Tourism Program, and especially the beautiful art trail, should help visitors and locals alike, connect with the local Aboriginal culture, community, and country.
“It’s a great project that’s good for the local economy and strengthens our community.”
Reflections’ cultural tourism initiatives are steered by Aboriginal engagement officer and Githabul Bundjalung woman Cheryl Newton.
She has been establishing relationships with the traditional custodians of the Crown Lands sites managed by Reflections to develop a range of immersion and tourism experiences for guests.
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