El Questro is more than just a stunning destination; it is a place of deep cultural significance, where ancient traditions and modern tourism exist in harmony. At the heart of our commitment is the meaningful partnerships we continue to build with the Wilinggin and Balanggarra people. The signing of the Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) in November 2022 marked a significant step forward, reaffirming our dedication to preserving culture, protecting Country, and creating opportunities for the Traditional Owners of this extraordinary land.
A Historic Agreement
The ILUA, established between G’day Group, the Wilinggin Aboriginal Corporation (WAC), and the Western Australian Government, returned 165,000 hectares of pastoral lease in the south of the property to its Traditional Owners, securing a long-term 99-year lease for tourism operations at El Questro. This agreement ensures the continued sustainability of tourism while also fostering economic and cultural empowerment for the local Indigenous community.
Opportunities for the Future
This landmark agreement opens doors for local Indigenous people through scholarships, traineeships, and employment pathways in tourism, hospitality, and land management. These programs support young Indigenous people in gaining skills and experience, empowering them to take leadership roles in sharing their culture and stories with visitors from around the world.
A Commitment to Custodianship
While our agreement covers the southern portion of our operations, our respect and commitment extend beyond this. Emma Gorge Resort, located on Balanggarra land, represents our ongoing collaboration with Traditional Owners in the north. “We see ourselves as custodians of this precious swathe of truly wild Country. We want to preserve it for the future and share its wonders with our guests today, creating opportunities for all to discover and learn,” said Grant Wilckens, Chief Executive Officer of the G’day Group.
A Profound Cultural Connection
Guests at El Questro are invited to immerse themselves in the living culture of the Traditional Owners. Through authentic experiences led by Indigenous guides, visitors can engage with storytelling and age-old customs that reveal the deep connection between the Ngarinyin people and their land. For those seeking a truly transformative experience, Injiid Marlabu Calls Us offers a heartfelt Welcome to Country and an introduction to the spiritual and cultural significance of the Kimberley. This exclusive experience, available to Homestead guests, honors the legacy of Injiid, a pioneering Traditional Owner of El Questro, and ensures the preservation of Ngarinyin language and traditions. A key moment of the experience is the traditional burning and cleansing ceremony, an ancient Ngarinyin practice symbolizing renewal and connection, inviting guests to engage deeply with the spirit of Country.
Discover the stories, traditions, and spirit of El Questro through the voices of its Traditional Owners. Click through to learn more about Injiid Marlabu Calls Us and the cultural connections waiting to be explored.
