I'm a big advocate for 'exploring your own backyard'. I've lived in NSW for many years now, and after a moment of sitting at the wharf, I felt bad that I had never ventured down to this part of Sydney. Cronulla is in Sydney, a 40 minute drive south of the city centre.
Today I was taking park in the Jibbon Aboriginal Walking Tour from Royal Coast Walks. We were heading out across the water on the historic ferry to the small sleepy town of Bundeena where we would then walk along the beach and cliffs through the Royal National Park.
Ian Wells (who is also a founder of the company) is your experienced guide. He is an extremely experienced trekker and his passion for the outdoors has you excited from the moment you say 'Hello' to him!
His knowledge of the local aboriginal people and culture is amazing! He has spent many years building relationships with local elders and people to gain insight and knowledge about their traditions and history.
The groups are small and friendly and Ian makes sure that everyone is introduced to each other. As our group walk through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Australia, we all feel comfortable to chit-chat to each other about why we are on the tour and our trekking experiences.
The tour gives insight into customs and practices of the local aboriginal people, as well as rivalries and Dreaming stories. You are introduced to 'bush tucker' and local plants that were used for medical ailments.
My two highlights on this tour were the Dharawal Aboriginal Engravings (which are over 1000 years old) and the breathtaking views from the headland out into the ocean and over Sydney city.
The Jibbon Aboriginal Walking tour runs for a few hours - I would plan a half day for it, better still take a full day and enjoy walking around Cronulla after wards. The tour also comes with a 'goodie-bag' with information about the local area and maps. Light refreshments are provided at the midpoint of the walk and it is recommended to bring 500ml to a litre of water with you.
Sydney Coast Walks also run other walking tours as well as overnight camping tours through the Royal National Park (I am definitely going to give this a go). To check out the Jibbon Aboriginal Walking tour details as well as other tours please visit their website - www.sydneycoastwalks.com.au
