Dalabon Aboriginal Cultural Experience in Katherine

Manny was fantastic. What a great bloke with an amazing past. Great story teller/ musician/ and artist. Not to mention spear throwing and making a fire the traditional way

Our small school group booked the Dalabon Aboriginal Cultural Experience and had a very lovely, informative and worthwhile time. Despite some challenges finding it (I overshot it twice to my embarrassment…supposed to be the local!!) Manual was waiting for us and for the next three hours told the story of his life , the details of which were fabulous at showing the cultural differences between peoples. He responded well to suggestions for slight changes to activity and timing. Manual is knowledgeable and relished the sharing of language and culture and cultural practices. I wholeheartedly recommend this experience for school children, although note it is more appropriate for those eight years or older. I also not there is a pool and schools should ensure they have appropriate swimming supervision and plan for this, because on a hot day a refreshing swim would be wonderful.

Manuel is a great story teller and teacher. He gave us a history of his story and how it is different to present day. Thoroughly enjoyed the aboriginal painting session and trying to start a fire and throw a spear. Definitely both harder than they look. Authentic fun experience which i recommend for any age. A must while you are in the top end.

Do not miss this! Manuel shared stories of his life, played the morlo (didgeridoo) and clap sticks. He taught us how to paint traditional rarrk (cross hatch) paintings, build a fire using sticks and throw a spear. It was a very enjoyable afternoon, full of cultural enrichment and one of the highlights of my visit to the region. I seriously can’t recommend it enough. I almost missed it; I’m very glad I didn’t.

This experience was nothing short of extraordinary! A perfect blend of music, art, and adventure that left us utterly captivated. From the moment we started, the energy was infectious. Listening to Manuel’s story and traditional songs and creating art together felt like stepping into a living storybook. His storytelling brought everything to life, making the history and traditions feel tangible and real. If you ever get the chance to do this, don’t hesitate. It’s an experience that stays with you long after it’s over.

This was one of hte best experiences we had in Australia. Manuel shared his life story, taught us how to paint Aboriginal art, played the didgerido for us and was a wonderful host. The cultural experience takes place at the Gorge View Bush Retreat so look for their sign when arriving for your experience.

It was our second visit to Manuel and it was again very nice and very interesting. The paintings are a beautiful keepsake. Thanks for the experience and laughter Manuel!

Our whole family loved our time with Manuel. He was so generous with his story telling and sharing his knowledge in a relaxed setting. Would highly recommend to anyone travelling through Katherine.

This was the best cultural experience I have ever done and can't recommend enough. You literally become part of the mob. We collected firewood and made a fire from scratch and then prepared the food to cook on the open fire. Regular BBQ options available but will also cook kangaroo tail, barramundi and turtle. Learned so much about Manuel, his family and their way of life. Manuel played the didgeridoo and we learned about bushtrekking and the Dalabon language. The best thing I have done in Australia. Booked through Gorge View Bush Retreat

+4

It was a brilliant tour for our whole family. Manuel is excellent at running the activities and sharing his culture and stories.