Pilbara tourism operator claims second Western Australian excellence award

A Ngarluma and Yindjibarndi man has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to Indigenous tourism in Western Australia for the second year in a row.

Ngurrangga Tours owner Clinton Walker won the 2019 Perth Airport WA Tourism Award for Individual Excellence in Aboriginal Tourism.

Walker said winning for a second time showed people believed in what he did, commenting "industry peers see that I’m doing great things in this space and in the promotion of indigenous tourism.

“I love my home and my culture and I want to share that with people. I want them to understand a bit about the long history that we have in this area and see the beauty of it all.”

Tourism Council WA Chief Executive Evan Hall said Clinton had a passion and drive to showcase his country and culture, and give visitors an authentic Aboriginal tourism experience.

Hall advised "over the past 12 months, Clinton has expanded his business by employing family members to help run his tours and take bookings.

“The judges were impressed with his recent business development and dedication to encouraging visitors to stay longer and explore the rich Aboriginal history of the region.”

Walker said he was proud to be passing on the knowledge of his culture, adding "if you’re going to be recognised as an Australian, you need to know the history of Australia which includes the history of this place which goes back 60,000 years.

“It makes you a better person and you have a better understanding of the home you call Australia.”