MOSSMAN GORGE

CULTURE - THE KUKU

YALANJI PEOPLE

Gummi Fridriksson

Introduction

Possessing some of the most picturesque natural landscapes in Australia and located in the World Heritage listed Daintree National Park, Mossman Gorge, enjoys a rich cultural history dating back tens of thousands of years. In particular, Mossman Gorge is home to the Kuku Yalanji people, who trace their origins to the earliest human occupation of the Australian continent.

Like many of the indigenous people in the region, the Kuku Yalanji strive to live in harmony with their rainforest environment. Based on a knowledge of natural cycles and a deep respect for nature, the Kuku Yalanji culture has been passed down from generation to generation.

Kuku Yalanji

Much of the Kuku Yalanji cultural history is contained in the oral tradition, as well as in paintings on the walls of caves.

Visitors to the Mossman Gorge Centre can learn about the Kuku Yalanji during the award-winning Dreamtime Walk conducted by members of the community. On the walk, visitors learn about dreamtime legends and the deep connection of the Kuku Yalanjipeople to the rainforest.