On a glorious day, 21 guests embarked on a journey through time at the Pollack Lagoon, a site rich in history and cultural significance. Nestled within a serene landscape, Pollack Lagoon is a place where the First Nations, the Barapa Barapa people, lived for thousands of years, leaving behind evidence of a deep and enduring connection to the land.

The tour which was guided by local elder Uncle Ron Galway of Barapa Barapa, offered an immersive experience of storytelling, cultural heritage, and history. Uncle Ron guided the group through the lagoon, sharing the stories of his ancestors and providing insights into the cultural practices, traditional land management, and the spiritual significance of this sacred place. His storytelling brought the past to life, allowing guests to connect deeply with the land and its history.

Following the tour, guests gathered to enjoy a delicious grazing station lunch, provided by CPK Hospitality. The delicious spread of local produce complemented the experience perfectly, allowing time for reflection, discussion, and sharing of thoughts.

The success of this pilot tour further reinforces the incredible potential for cultural heritage tourism in Barham. Western Murray Land Improvement Group (WMLIG), in collaboration with Moama Local Aboriginal Land Council, Forestry Corporation of NSW, and our local Barapa Barapa elder uncle Ron Galway, has been working diligently on the development of cultural heritage tours in the region. The aim is to create an ongoing opportunity for visitors and locals alike to engage with the rich Indigenous history of the land, learn from Traditional Owners, and create an ongoing cultural heritage tourism project in the area.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Uncle Ron for his generosity in sharing his knowledge and wisdom, FRRR for their ongoing support through the Future Drought Fund – community impact program, Graham and Tanya Heffer as neighbouring landowners and to CPK Hospitality for the wonderful lunch, and to all our guests for their participation and valuable feedback. As we continue to develop these cultural heritage experiences, we look forward to welcoming more people to discover the stories, traditions, and beauty of the Pollack Lagoon and beyond.

Stay tuned for future opportunities to experience the living history of Barapa Barapa country and be part of this incredible journey of cultural connection and learning.

This article appeared in The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper, 3 April 2025.