Work has started on the Eastern Kuku Yalanji Bamanga Muruku Tourism Hub at Kulki / Cape Tribulation.
The Traditional Owners of the Daintree Rainforest, the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people, will soon have a new tourism hub at Kulki / Cape Tribulation.
Construction has commenced on the $3.76 million centre, with funding provided mostly by the Australian Government, and an additional $260,000 contribution from the Queensland Government.
The Bamanga Muruku Tourism Hub will include outdoor areas for workshops and performances, as well as indoor spaces to showcase Eastern Kuku Yalanji culture through dance, art, ceremonies, tours, and interpretive displays.
Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation tourism spokesperson Crag Carttling thanked both the federal and state governments for supporting the centre, which is expected to become a major tourism drawcard in the Daintree National Park region.
“Eastern Kuku Yalanji are already leaders in First Nations tourism, with one of the highest concentrations of cultural tourism experiences anywhere in the country,” Mr Carttling said.
“Through the cultural centre and our new tour company, Yalada Tours, visitors can see the oldest living rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef through the eyes of the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people, and experience their connection to Country stretching back 65,000 years.”
Building designers CA Architects state that the design concept is inspired by “the experience of moving through the forest—transitioning from the enclosed canopy to elevated, open spaces.”
This includes a play of light and shadow, and the use of dappled lighting.
Design elements are also influenced by the forest canopy, water, and colour. Timber framing and skylights will mimic the rainforest, and rainwater will cascade from the roof. The colour palette, inspired by the cassowary, features myrtle green and plum purple.
The cultural centre is expected to host dance performances, art exhibitions, ceremonies, and guided tours that share the traditions, stories, and deep connection to Country held by the Eastern Kuku Yalanjiwarra people.
The project will require no clearing, as it is being built on an existing site near the Dubuji Boardwalk in Daintree National Park (CYPAL).
