New research has revealed a huge demand for Indigenous cultural experiences, with Australians reportedly spending $3 billion per year on Aboriginal tourism.
In responding to the demand, an increasing number of Aboriginal organisations, local Aboriginal Land Council's and Traditional Owners are demonstrating a keenness to share their knowledge and boost employment prospects for local community, whilst state governments are contributing by supporting the growing industry through funding.
A example of how governments can work with community to maximise support for First Nations communities is the newly announced partnership between the Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation (BMNAC) and TAFE New South Wales.
The partnership will see high school students study a Certificate III in Tourism, whilst undertaking on-the-job training through BMNAC.
Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan which translates to "Two Path Strong" in the Gumbaynggirr language, is a not-for-profit charity that has been operating in Coffs Harbour for 13 years.
BMNAC operates early learning centres and language programs, whilst also providing engagement training and cultural tourism experiences.
The profits from these ventures are then reinvested into the corporation and have led to the creation of the first bilingual School of an Aboriginal language in NSW - teaching children in both English and Gumbaynggirr.
Gumbaynggirr Giingana Freedom School has a focus on Gumbaynggirr language and culture, quality teaching based on Gumbaynggirr values and philosophies and strong community and parent engagement.
The organisation is gaining worldwide interest, with BMNAC recently receiving an award for inspiring good practice by Global Green Destinations, a company based in the Netherlands that supports sustainable destinations, their businesses and their communities.
Participating students currently work as guides providing cultural tourism experiences, which take place at "Niigi Niigi" (the Sealy Lookout) within the Orara East State Forest.
The organisation said tourists become immersed in Gumbaynggirr culture through stories, songs, language and knowledge about the use of native plants.
"Through this partnership with TAFE and BMNAC, I have the opportunity to learn more about how this land came to be and to share the significance it holds in our culture with visitors to this area," current student Isaiah Kelly said.
Another inspired student Alistar Driver said he is passionate about the work he is doing through the program.
"Our culture is precious – and so is our language. It is a privilege to share stories of the land, environment and culture with others," he said.
Enterprise Director at BMNAC Kamla Webb said cultural education leads to better futures for Indigenous students.
"It's important young Aboriginal people learn more about their culture, as it helps them establish their identity, which leads to better outcomes for them," Ms Webb said.
"As a not-for-profit corporation, the support of TAFE NSW expands our capabilities. The key to our business is offering training and employment opportunities, and TAFE can help us do this.
"Our corporation provides a platform for Aboriginal youth to connect with the Elders in the community, so they are learning stories that will keep our culture alive in the future. Our tourism experiences help us to share these stories and traditions with the wider community, and visitors to our region."
