Culture
In the heart of the spectacular Karijini National Park lies more than a getaway destination – it’s a place where meaningful travel meets natural wonder.
Karijini NP is the traditional home of the Banyjima, Kurrama and Innawonga Aboriginal people. The Banjima name for the Hamersley Range is Karijini.
The name of the Park recognises the historic and continuing significance of the area to the people and their involvement in park management. Evidence of their ancestors occupation dates back more than 30,000 years. During that period, Aboriginal land management practices such as ‘fire stick farming’, resulting in a diversity of
vegetation types and stages of succession, have helped determine the nature of the plants and animals found in the Park today.
Fern Pool and Circular Pool are among many sacred and special places to Aboriginal people. In Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, a giant serpent created these pools in a time when the earth was soft, and the spirit is believed to still live in these waters. You will feel a special, tranquil energy in these places and the cool water is perfect to swim in after a day of hiking the gorges. To protect the heritage, cultural and environmental values of these areas, visitors are encouraged to be respectful, enter the water quietly and avoid making loud noises. Access to the area above Fern Pool is not permitted. Please do not climb or jump from this waterfall or from the ledges surrounding Circular
Pool.
Thanarru (WELCOME)
Gumala’s mission is deeply rooted in supporting Indigenous communities through a range of impactful initiatives. These efforts include member programs and community projects that are designed to empower the Traditional Owners. Gumala allocates funds to education and training programs, cultural preservation projects, and community infrastructure investments. These initiatives not only enhance the well-being and self-sufficiency of Indigenous communities but also foster cultural heritage and create sustainable economic opportunities.
At Karijini Eco Retreat, your stay directly supports the lives and futures of the Banjima, Yinhawangka, and Nyiyaparli people of the Pilbara region.
It’s owned by Gumala Enterprises & Development Pty Ltd, and the unique retreat exemplifies how tourism can drive social empowerment and economic growth, transforming each guest’s visit into an act of mindful travel and community support.
How your stay contributes
By choosing Karijini Eco Retreat, guests are making an investment that stretches beyond the borders of the National Park. While the breathtaking landscapes are mind blowing, it’s almost also about making a difference.! A portion of the profits from each stay goes towards funding essential programs in Indigenous communities like education and training programs, cultural preservation efforts and infrastructure projects.
One such program is Gumala’s 3a Early Learning Program. With seven locations across the Pilbara, the 3a program is more than just early education, this program empowers young minds with the skills and confidence they need to thrive.
Grounded in cultural identity and family involvement, the program fosters a love for learning while strengthening the connection between children, their families and their heritage. Every lesson, story, and interaction helps build a foundation for lifelong success, ensuring that the next generation carries forward the strength and knowledge of the Banjima, Yinhawangka, and Nyiyaparli peoples.
Gumala’s Vision
Gumala is one of Australia’s largest Aboriginal corporations, representing the Banjima, Yinhawangka, and Nyiyaparli peoples of the Pilbara region in Western Australia. With offices in Boorloo (Perth) and Jarndunmunha (Tom Price), Gumala is dedicated to empowering Traditional Owners through initiatives that support education, employment, business development, and cultural preservation.
Projects like the Karijini Eco Retreat exemplify Gumala’s commitment to strengthening the connection between the three language groups and their ancestral lands while fostering a brighter future for generations to come.