Allied Health students on rural placement recently had the rare opportunity to participate in a cultural immersion experience at Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park, guided by Nganguraku Elder Ivy and young cultural custodian Rylee. The visit offered an invaluable insight into one of Australia’s most significant archaeological and cultural sites — the first rock shelter to be scientifically excavated in the country by Herbert Hale and Norman Tindale in 1929.

During the guided walk, students viewed ancient rock carvings and listened to the stories behind them, shared with warmth and knowledge by Rylee. As one of the emerging custodians of this cultural heritage, Rylee continues the tradition of oral storytelling and intergenerational knowledge sharing that has been sustained by Aboriginal peoples for thousands of years.

The group learned that the main excavation site at Ngaut Ngaut reached a depth of 22.5 feet and was radiocarbon dated to around 8,000 years old, revealing evidence of continuous occupation. Excavation was limited by the rising river water, offering a glimpse into how this sacred site connects deeply to the surrounding landscape and waterways.

In addition to exploring the archaeological history, students were invited to experience aspects of traditional life on Country — tasting kangaroo stew, feeling the texture of possum skins, and examining authentic artefacts. These sensory experiences encouraged participants to connect more deeply with the enduring traditions, resilience, and ingenuity of the First Nations people who have cared for this Country for tens of thousands of years.

The visit served as a powerful reminder of the unbroken relationship between culture, land, and community, and the importance of learning from and with Aboriginal knowledge holders to enrich understanding and respect for Australia’s cultural heritage.