Rainforestation Nature Park reaches 30 years of indigenous collaboration

Award-winning Far North Queensland tourism attraction Rainforestation Nature Park has announced a commemoration of a three decade partnership between the Woodward family, founders and owners of the esteemed CaPTA Group, and the Enochs, hailing from the Quandamooka (North Stradbroke Island) and Kaanjtju (Lockhart River) tribes, with some family connections to Djabugay and Yidinji tribes.

Together, the two families have consistently united their efforts to enrich guests' understanding and appreciation of Indigenous culture while leaving an indelible mark on the local tourism sector.

The collaborative journey began in 1993 when Charles and Pip Woodward joined forces with Donald Enoch, Brian Enoch, and the current Pamagirri Manager Elder William Enoch Snr. 

With the blessing of the late Djabugay Elder Lyn Hobbler, they established the ground-breaking Rainforestation Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience. This transformative tourism venture has ever since then provided an invaluable platform for local Indigenous people to share their rich heritage, history, and stories.

Over the course of three decades, the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience has blossomed into an iconic attraction in Tropical North Queensland. 

In celebration of their remarkable achievements and enduring relationships, the Woodwards and the Enochs convened on July 5th 2023 for a heartfelt morning tea.

With nearly 25 years of service, William Enoch Snr. continues in his role as the Pamagirri Manager, working alongside his son Louis, who holds the position of Rainforestation's Pamagirri Team Leader. Their dedication and expertise have been invaluable in perpetuating the park's commitment to showcasing Indigenous culture.

Since its establishment in 1976, the CaPTA Group, under the guidance of Charles and Pip Woodward, has consistently recognised the significance of supporting, preserving, and sharing Australia's Indigenous heritage as a vital component of fostering reconciliation. This ethos remains at the core of the company.

In recent years, the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience has received notable recognition, such as winning the Qantas Award for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Tourism at the 2019 Queensland Tourism Awards and earning the bronze Qantas Award at the Australian Tourism Awards.

Emphasising the continued importance of reconciliation and the celebration of Indigenous culture within the group’s ethos, CaPTA Director of Sales and Marketing, Ben Woodward stated “the CaPTA Group is built upon mutual respect, harmonious relationships, and a commitment to encourage all members of our team to learn about and celebrate the culture of our Traditional Owners.

"For the past 30 years, our families have worked together to drive Indigenous tourism, and I believe that this partnership will endure, educating others on Indigenous culture, and fostering reconciliation and mutual respect for generations to come."

Kieran Sullivan, General Manager of Rainforestation Nature Park, added "Pamagirri has established a longstanding partnership with Project Booya, contributing to the empowerment of disengaged youth in the region.

“Through our collaboration with UMI Arts, we proudly support emerging Indigenous artists through the annual Pamagirri Art Show since 2019. We take great pride in the achievements of our Pamagirri Guides, who have worked with us over the years, moving on to pursue larger opportunities and successful careers.”

In recent years, Pamagirri has undergone a significant evolution, actively engaging with school groups and local organisations at Rainforestation to ensure the transmission of cultural heritage to younger generations.

The 30-year anniversary stands as a testament to the profound impact that collaboration, respect, and a shared vision can have on preserving Indigenous culture while simultaneously enriching the tourism industry. 

Image: Located at Kuranda, 25 kilometres inland from Cairns, Rainforestation Nature Park has announced a commemoration of a three decade partnership between the Woodward family, founders and owners of the esteemed CaPTA Group, and the Enochs, hailing from the Quandamooka (North Stradbroke Island) and Kaanjtju (Lockhart River) tribes, with some family connections to Djabugay and Yidinji tribes.