Aboriginal cultural experiences: Tasmania

Known as lutruwita in the language of its Traditional Owners, Tasmania has some wonderful cultural experiences on offer. Whether you’re exploring significant sites in nipaluna (Hobart) or enjoying a yarn over some bush tucker, the island state delivers.

Hobart experiences

takara nipaluna walking tour

Get a whole new perspective on Hobart on this 90-minute walking tour, led by palawa/walpiri woman Nunami Sculthorpe-Green. The route retraces the footsteps of 40 members of the Aboriginal resistance who, in 1832, headed along the waterfront to the old Government House to negotiate an end to the infamous Black War. Stopping at 15 significant sites, you’ll learn about the Aboriginal history and culture underpinning the city from pre-colonial times through to today. Surprising and thought-provoking.

ningina tunapri and Our Land exhibits, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery

The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery’s permanent exhibitions, ‘ningina tunapri’ and ‘Our land: parrawa, parrawa! Go away!’, explore the heritage and history of the state’s Traditional Owners. Celebrating 40,000 years of Aboriginal culture in Tasmania, the former lives up to its name, which means ‘to give knowledge and understanding’. The latter is more sobering look at the aftermath of European settlement, with a focus on the Black War. Both are unmissable and free to enter.

Launceston experiences

wukalina Walk

Immerse yourself in the timeless culture and spectacular country of Tasmania’s First Peoples, the palawa, on this incredible four-day guided hike from wukalina (Mount William National Park) to larapuna (the Bay of Fires). Journeying through some of the most breathtaking landscapes you could hope to see, you’ll learn about the palawa’s deep connection to the natural world. You’ll hear about the fascinating evolution of their language, palawa kani, and take part in traditional activities that date back millennia.