Sunday, 26 January 2025

Discover the Indigenous History of Byron Bay Lighthouse with Delta Kay’s New Walking Tour

Byron Bay Lighthouse
Byron Bay, renowned for its stunning landscapes and coastal charm, now offers visitors a deeper connection to its rich cultural heritage through a newly launched walking tour by award-winning Indigenous tour operator Delta Kay. This immersive experience invites participants to explore the Walgun Cape Byron Lighthouse Loop Trail from an Aboriginal perspective, blending breathtaking scenery with cultural storytelling.

A Journey Through Culture and Nature

The 3.7 km guided walk begins at Clarkes Beach and follows the Tallow Ridge Walking Track through tranquil coastal rainforests. The trail leads participants to the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. The journey continues along the Cape Byron Walking Track past Australia’s most easterly point, Wategos Beach, and The Pass before returning to Clarkes Beach.

This moderately challenging route not only rewards walkers with spectacular scenery but also provides an invaluable opportunity to learn about the cultural and spiritual significance of these landscapes through the eyes of the Bundjalung people.

Sharing Dreaming Stories and Aboriginal Knowledge

Delta Kay’s storytelling is the heart of the tour. Guests will hear powerful Dreaming stories that illuminate the connection between the Bundjalung people and the land. Kay also shares insights into native bush foods, traditional medicines, tools, and artefacts, offering a hands-on learning experience. Along the way, there’s the chance to spot native wildlife, including dolphins, koalas, sea eagles, and wallabies, making the journey as vibrant as it is educational.

“There are opportunities to learn some Bundjalung language and explore native bush foods, natural medicine, tools, weapons, and artefacts,” says Kay. “I want people to leave my tours with a deeper understanding of how my family have always cared for the land and are still caring for it.”

An Award-Winning Cultural Experience

Delta Kay has been offering Indigenous-themed tours in the Byron Bay region for five years, including tours of Walgun (Cape Byron), Bangalow, and Broken Head. Her efforts to blend culture, nature, and storytelling were recognized last year with a gold award for Excellence in Cultural Tourism at the Northern NSW Tourism Awards.

This new tour highlights Kay’s dedication to fostering a meaningful connection between visitors and the region’s Indigenous heritage. “The Lighthouse is such a European symbol,” she explains, “and the fact that we can infuse the Aboriginal narrative into the experience provides a truly unique viewpoint that will give visitors a much richer perspective of the Byron region.”

Practical Details

The tours are designed for small groups and operate on Friday and Sunday evenings, departing at 5 pm during the summer months to capture the beauty of the tropical sunsets. The cost is $99 per person, ensuring an intimate and memorable experience for all participants.

Why Join the Tour?

Delta Kay’s walking tour offers more than just a picturesque stroll—it’s an opportunity to connect with the ancient heritage of Byron Bay and understand the land through the lens of its traditional custodians. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this experience promises to deepen your appreciation of the natural and cultural treasures of the Byron region.

For bookings and more information, visit Explore Byron Bay.

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