Kakadu’s Cooinda Lodge celebrates NAIDOC week with emphasis on engaging younger generations

Kakadu National Park’s Cooinda Lodge is marking NAIDOC week from 5th July to 12th July by inviting visitors to celebrate the region’s deep Aboriginal heritage. The theme of NAIDOC Week this year is ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’.

With Kakadu’s Indigenous heritage dating back over 65,000 years, local Aboriginal communities within the Park have designed a program of events to share their culture with visitors.

Cooinda Lodge is located in Murumburr Country, adjacent to Yellow Water Billabong (where visitors can take guided cruises to see the exotic wildlife), and within easy driving distance of Kakadu’s most famous attractions, including the Nourlangie rock art galleries and the Gunlom and Maguk waterfalls and swimming holes.

General Manager of Cooinda Lodge, Jason Cleverley said that the emphasis for this year’s NAIDOC Week would be on the younger generation of Bininj living in Kakadu.

Cleverley advised “we rightfully celebrate the 65,000 years legacy of Aboriginal people inhabiting Kakadu, but we are also recognising the very talented younger generation coming through who are contributing so much to the future of Kakadu and its culture.

“NAIDOC Week will give talented local artists, musicians and chefs to shine and interact with visitors. We particularly want to see lots of children here at Cooinda Lodge to enjoy the free activities being offered at the hotel and Warradjan Cultural Centre. Everyone is welcome.”

Events at Cooinda Lodge during NAIDOC Week include:

•Saturday, 5th July – Dird Full Moon Feast dinner – a night infused with local Bininj (Indigenous) culture, and a menu featuring native ingredients. Traditional Owners from the Murumburr clan will share stories of the region and their rich culture, traditions and connection to Country. Tickets $139 per adult/$99 per child.

•Sunday, 6th July - Pancake Breakfast for kids. Children staying at Cooinda Lodge will be able to enjoy a free pancake breakfast just for kids at Cooinda's children's playground. No bookings are needed—simply turn up, grab a plate and enjoy a fun, tasty morning at Cooinda Lodge. Free admission.

•Sunday, 6th July 10am – 2pm Bouncy Castle, Waterslide & Kids Activities at Cooinda Lodge A fun-filled day for the little ones. Kids can bounce, slide, and play with a range of exciting activities at Cooinda Lodge—perfect for burning off some energy and joining in the NAIDOC spirit. Free admission.

•Monday, 7th July, 9am–1pm Free Weaving, Ground Oven & Art - Try traditional weaving, learn ground oven cooking, and explore stunning artworks at Warradjan Cultural Centre—just 1km from Cooinda. Free admission.

•Monday, 7th July 4pm-5pm  Cultural Bush Tucker Talk Join a walking tour through Cooinda grounds to discover traditional bush tucker plants and their uses. Learn how Bininj people use the land for food, medicine and culture. Tour departs from reception. Tickets $30 per adult.

•Tuesday, 8th July 6pm-9pm Seasons of Kakadu Dinner Experience the spirit and tastes of Kakadu through a specially designed menu at Mimi’s Restaurant, which showcases seasonal ingredients and stories from the land, blending culture and cuisine in an attractive dining event.Tickets $139PP.

•Wednesday, 9th July 5pm - Paint, Sip & Cruise on Yellow Water Billabong Cruise the wetlands at sunset, sip a refreshing drink, and let your creativity flow with a guided painting session led by a local artist. All materials and beverages are included in this relaxed experience. Tickets $148PP

•Thursday 10th July 9am–1pm Warradjan Weaving, Ground Oven & Art Visit Warradjan Cultural Centre for another chance to explore Bininj culture—learn weaving, discover ground oven cooking, and view beautiful local artworks. A hands-on and enriching cultural experience. Free admission

•Saturday, 12th July, 6pm NAIDOC Big Eat with Shellie Morris Enjoy a delicious bush food cook-up at Barra Bar with live music by Shellie Morris—renowned Indigenous artist and 2014 NT Australian of the Year. Her powerful songs are shared in over 17 languages. Free admission

Further information and booking details