A DAY ON COUNTRY IS NEVER ENOUGH
One day on country is never enough. Giiyong Festival takes place on Thaua Country - halfway between Eden and Pambula, on the Sapphire Coast of NSW on Saturday 22 November 2025. We invite you to stay a while and immerse yourself in the amazing Aboriginal Cultural Experiences available in the region. Come back time and time again, stay longer.
Giiyong literally means WELCOME!
Discover cultural traditions and see our Country with new eyes as you walk on ancient pathways, taste bush tucker, learn language and the gentle and welcoming ways of our local people.
The Sapphire Coast provides so many different experiences and adventures - for families, solo travellers, couples and even corporate retreats.
Each year more and more Aboriginal-owned businesses are developing and growing. Offering Cultural experiences, dining options and services. Watch this space as the sector grows to meet demand.
Yandama On Country
Yandama On Country welcomes you for gentle, immersive cultural experiences on Thaua Country, located on the Far South Coast of New South Wales.
Join local knowledgeable Indigenous tour guide, Nathan Lygon, as you learn about the rich cultural history of the local and surrounding areas.
Yandama means to "walk now" in the local Thaua and Djirranganj languages. Yandama On Country means "walking on country".
Experiencing country with Nathan (one of Giiyong Festival’s key cultural advisers and an award-winning tour guide) is truly an unforgettable experience.
BUNDIAN WAY - guided walks + cultural experiences
The Bundian Way is an ancient pathway for Aboriginal people from Yuin, Ngarigo, Jaitmathang, Bidawal Country that provided safe passage between the coast and the high country. Travel along the pathway allowed different tribal groups to gather on the shores of Turemulerrer (Twofold Bay) during the spring whale migration and ceremonial places near Targangal (Mount Kosciuszko) for the Bogong gatherings in summer.
You can now book guided walks and cultural experiences on small sections of the track from Eden and Jigamy (the home of Giiyong Festival). From 45 min to 3 hours. Suitable for families, corporates, individuals or groups.
BUNDIAN WAY - self guided - story trail
Follow the ancient steps of the Bundian Way along the 1.8km Story Trail from Cocora Beach to Quarantine Bay in Eden.
This family-friendly walk follows the edge of spectacular Turemulerrer (Twofold Bay) and is dotted by interpretive stories about the people who have walked this trail for thousands of years.
Beginning at Cocora Beach, the Story Trail leads through native bushland to a specially built Bunaan Ring (ceremonial performance place), gently up Cocora Point and to Budginbro Lookout. From here, follow the Story Trail past Sealers Lookout and along the sand at Bungo Beach, onwards to Brierly Lookout overlooking Rixons Beach, finishing at Quarantine Bay.
ACCOMMODATION + ACTIVITIES
You are spoilt for choice on the Sapphire Coast when it comes to accommodation. From beachside camping to luxury holiday homes, every type of accommodation you can imagine is at your fingertips.
There are some truly unique stays and great options for families.
You will fall in love with Jigamy when you come to Giiyong Festival. The new Aboriginal-owned Jigamy Campground is now open (sadly, it’s not availlable during the Festival) - but we know you’ll be back! Book your camping stay now.
PLEASE NOTE: CAMPING IS AVAILABLE AT JIGAMY CAMPGROUND for PERFORMERS AND STALLHOLDERS ONLY 20-24 Nov 2025.
Jigamy is located just 10 minutes from both Pambula and Eden. It is less than 20 minutes from Merimbula and sits on the shores of Pambula Lake. We aren’t far from Bega, or Tathra and we’re only 30 mins from Candelo.
Whether you love the beach or the bush, the mountains or village-life, the Sapphire Coast has something for everyone.
NAVIGATE EXPEDItions
Navigate Expeditions has recently partnered with Twofold Aboriginal Corporation and Yandama on Country to deliver cultural kayaking tours along the Pambula River. This wonderful collaboration includes kayaking, cultural talks, swimming, and morning tea by the river in Beowa National Park.
The Sapphire Coast website lists everything there is to do and see in our beautiful part of the world, where to stay, where to eat and drink, what not to miss - from Bermagui to Eden. It’s a great resource and you can use their planning tool to plan your whole adventure!
Respectful Travel Tips
Engage with Local Knowledge
Whenever possible, engage with Aboriginal guides and educators who can offer authentic insights and stories about their culture and history. This not only gives you the best possible experience but it also supports local business and communities.
Visit Cultural Centres
Cultural centres and museums, even art galleries, they can be a valuable source of information about local Aboriginal history and culture of the region. They often host exhibitions, workshops, and events. Please note that hte Monaroo Bobberer Gudu Keeping Place at Jigamy is closed during 2025 for renovations.
Respect Sacred Sites
Many sites along the South Coast are sacred to Aboriginal people. Please respect signage and local knowledge. Please do not go onto land that is earmarked as sacred and do not disturb artefacts. When in doubt, ask!
SHOPPING + TOURS
Choose to support Aboriginal-owned businesses, from tour operators to art galleries and cafes and food trucks.