Introducing Richard Allan, our new Indigenous Tourism Officer. Richard has released two new programs at the Arboretum that are getting rave reviews.
Walk on Country
Bring the landscape to life allowing you to gain a deeper respect and understanding for Aboriginal Traditions and Culture. Hear stories about the use of stones axes, coolamons, skins, clapsticks with a hands-on artefact display.
This immersive and enjoyable tour is a relaxing way to learn about Aboriginal Culture in a beautiful bush setting.
*Update: these 2024 programs are no longer available. Please check What's on or Guided Tours for our current programs.The Art of the Boomerang
An enriching two-hour workshop with our experienced Indigenous Tourism Officer where you will create, learn and learn to throw your very own boomerang. Immerse yourself in the rich history and scientific marvels behind these ancient hunting tools.
Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with Aboriginal Culture and create your own tangible piece of history.
*Update: these 2024 programs are no longer available. Please check What's on or Guided Tours for our current programs.Meet Richard!
My People are from Ngunnawal (Canberra), Bunjalung (Gold Coast), Gamilaraay (Walhallow). My interests are sports and whatever my kids are into at the time. I also have my venomous snake handling license and also help catch and collect data from some of the worlds most venomous snakes.
What's your favourite spot at the Arboretum?
Top of the Amphitheatre
What's your favourite Arboretum forest?
Forest #79, Bottle tree Brachychiton rupestris. There is such a presence about them, you don't feel alone when you're in the forest with these trees.
What part of your culture are you most proud of sharing in your tours?
The science behind our tools, our artefacts, and the art that is storytelling.
What do you have the most fun doing in your tours?
Challenging people to try something that they don't usually try, ranging from trying new food, tools and artefacts.
What do you like to do in your own time?
Sport! I'll try anything and everything when it comes to sport, I'm very competitive. If I'm not good at something, I will keep at it until I am.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
Teaching the younger generations about the history of Australia and seeing how engaged they are.