Kununurra, located in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia, is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its rich Indigenous culture. The Miriwoong and Gija people have called this land home for thousands of years, and their connection to the land is evident in the art, heritage sites, and stories that have been passed down through generations. If you’re looking to explore the vibrant Indigenous culture of Kununurra, here are the must-see art and heritage sites that offer an authentic and meaningful experience.
1. Waringarri Aboriginal Arts
One of the best places to immerse yourself in the local Indigenous art scene is at Waringarri Aboriginal Arts, one of the oldest Indigenous-owned art centers in Australia. The center showcases the work of Miriwoong artists, whose vibrant paintings, sculptures, and prints celebrate their deep connection to the land, water, and spiritual traditions of the East Kimberley.
Waringarri offers a range of guided cultural tours that provide insights into the significance of the art and the stories behind each piece. You can even join a hands-on art workshop, where you’ll have the chance to create your own artwork under the guidance of local artists. Visiting Waringarri Aboriginal Arts is a great way to support the local Indigenous community while gaining a deeper understanding of their culture.
What we love: The opportunity to learn directly from the artists and experience the creativity and cultural significance of Miriwoong art.
Good to know: The center also has a shop where you can purchase authentic artworks, jewelry, and souvenirs, making it a perfect place to find a meaningful memento of your visit.
Location: Speargrass Rd, Kununurra, WA 6743
Image © Tourism Western Australia
2. Gija Art at Warmun Art Centre
Located about 200 kilometers south of Kununurra, the Warmun Art Centre is a vibrant hub for Gija artists who have gained international recognition for their work. The art center showcases the traditional and contemporary paintings of Gija people, with many works depicting the Ngarranggarni (Dreaming stories) and the artists' deep connection to their ancestral lands.
Warmun Art Centre is an essential stop for anyone interested in learning about the unique style of East Kimberley art, characterized by bold colors, intricate dot work, and stories of Country. The center also offers artist talks, giving visitors the chance to hear firsthand about the meaning behind the art and the cultural significance of the Gija people’s connection to the land.
What we love: The intimate experience of learning from renowned Gija artists and seeing their vibrant work up close.
Good to know: Warmun Art Centre hosts exhibitions and artist residencies, so check their schedule to see if there are any special events during your visit.
Location: Warmun (Turkey Creek), WA 6743
3. Mirima National Park: Miriwoong Country
For a cultural and natural experience, visit Mirima National Park (Hidden Valley), located just minutes from the center of Kununurra. This park is not only a stunning geological site but also holds deep cultural significance for the Miriwoong people, whose ancestors have lived in this region for thousands of years.
The park’s towering sandstone formations and gorges resemble the famous Bungle Bungles, and the walking trails offer breathtaking views of the landscape. The Miriwoong people have a strong spiritual connection to this land, and the park’s features are linked to Dreaming stories that are still passed down through generations. You’ll find interpretive signs along the trails that explain the cultural significance of the park’s features and the traditional stories associated with them.
What we love: The combination of stunning natural scenery and cultural heritage, offering a chance to experience both the physical and spiritual beauty of Miriwoong Country.
Good to know: Visit the park early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and catch the rocks glowing in the soft light.
Location: Hidden Valley Rd, Kununurra, WA 6743
4. Ord Valley Muster: A Celebration of Indigenous Culture
If you’re visiting Kununurra in May, don’t miss the Ord Valley Muster, an annual event that celebrates the region’s rich cultural heritage. This week-long festival features a range of events, including Indigenous dance performances, live music, art exhibitions, and storytelling sessions that showcase the traditions and culture of the Miriwoong and Gija people.
One of the highlights of the festival is the Waringarri Corroboree, where local Indigenous groups perform traditional dances that have been passed down through generations. It’s a powerful and moving experience that offers visitors a rare opportunity to witness the cultural traditions of the region in a celebratory atmosphere.
What we love: The vibrant celebration of Indigenous culture and the chance to experience traditional music, dance, and art in a festival setting.
Good to know: The Ord Valley Muster is a popular event, so be sure to book your tickets and accommodation early if you plan to attend.
Location: Various locations in Kununurra, WA
5. Ivanhoe Crossing and Indigenous Fishing Traditions
Ivanhoe Crossing, a picturesque causeway over the Ord River, has been a significant site for both fishing and travel for the Miriwoong people for centuries. The river is home to barramundi and other fish species, which have provided sustenance for Indigenous communities in the region.
A visit to Ivanhoe Crossing not only offers a chance to enjoy the scenic views of the river and its surroundings but also provides insights into the traditional fishing practices of the Miriwoong people. If you’re lucky, you may even see locals casting nets in the river, continuing the fishing traditions that have been passed down through generations.
What we love: The opportunity to connect with the traditional ways of life that continue to play an important role in the daily lives of the Miriwoong people.
Good to know: Ivanhoe Crossing is also a popular fishing spot for recreational anglers, so bring your fishing gear if you want to try catching some barramundi.
Location: Ivanhoe Crossing Rd, Kununurra, WA 6743
6. Miriwoong Language and Culture Centre
The Miriwoong Language and Culture Centre plays a vital role in preserving the Miriwoong language, one of the oldest languages in the world. The center offers a range of cultural activities, workshops, and language classes aimed at promoting and revitalizing the Miriwoong language and traditional practices.
Visitors to the center can participate in cultural workshops that teach traditional skills such as weaving, painting, and boomerang making. The center also offers guided cultural tours, where local Miriwoong guides share their knowledge of the land, bush tucker, and Dreaming stories.
What we love: The chance to learn directly from Miriwoong elders and gain a deeper understanding of their language, culture, and traditions.
Good to know: The center welcomes visitors but encourages booking in advance for workshops and tours to ensure availability.
Location: Kununurra, WA 6743
Website: Mirima Dawang Woorlab-gerring
Final Thoughts
Kununurra is a place where the rich traditions and stories of the Indigenous peoples are deeply intertwined with the land and its natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring art galleries, visiting sacred sites, or learning about the cultural significance of the region’s landscapes, Kununurra offers a wealth of experiences that provide insight into the rich heritage of the Miriwoong and Gija people. For travelers looking to connect with the culture and history of the Kimberley, these must-see art and heritage sites are a perfect starting point.