Locals and visitors can experience the beauty and culture of the Burnett River on a special guided cruise as part of this year’s Milbi Festival.
The 90-minute cruise on the icon river ferry the Bundy Belle includes refreshments of bush tea and damper, and a Taribelang Bunda cultural guide leading the tour commentary.
Bundy Belle River Cruises’ Lisa Lockley said passengers would also get to experience the Bundy Belle’s new vessel.
“We always look forward to the Milbi Festival and welcoming Wazzi and her big smile on-board to share the history of the Burnett River and surrounds as told by the Taribelang Bunda people,” Lisa said.
“To add to our excitement this year, we have a new vessel which is wheelchair accessible with a disabled toilet on-board.
“The Bundy Belle II has a roomy cabin which can seat up to 40 plus people comfortably, it offers an upper viewing deck and a smaller front deck.
“The Burnett River is one of three rivers in central Queensland where the Milbi is found, so it is very fitting that part of the festival takes place on this magnificent river system.”
Cultural connection highlighted
Taribelang Aboriginal Corporation Manager Bec Domaille said guests would hear about the significant connection of the Burnett River to the Taribelang Bunda people.
“They will hear stories about the ancestors of the Taribelang Bunda people and the importance of the river in sustaining our culture, history, and livelihood,” Bec said.
“The cultural significance of the milbi (white-throated snapping turtle), a totem of the Taribelang Bunda, will also be highlighted, including efforts to preserve and protect this critically endangered species.”
Bec said the cruise offered an important and unique opportunity for truth-telling about the often untold or overlooked aspects of Aboriginal history in the region.
“Through this experience, guests can better understand the enduring cultural and environmental guardianship responsibilities of the Taribelang Bunda, while also learning about the resilience and survival of their people and culture despite historical challenges,” she said.
“When people know true history we can ensure that we are moving towards genuine reconciliation together as one community.”
The annual Milbi Festival celebrates the Bundaberg Region’s arts, culture and natural beauty, and runs from 25 October to 3 November.
For a full list of all events and activities on offer, visit the Milbi Festival program here.
Bundy Belle River Cruise
Where: Bundy Belle, Riverside Parklands Pontoon 3, Quay Street
When: Saturday 26 October, 2 to 3.30 pm | Sunday 27 October, 10 to 11.30 am | Wednesday 30 October, 3.30 to 5 pm
Cost: $40 per person, bookings here.
