Bathurst Island - Bathurst Island

In 1911, Nguiu, the main community on Bathurst Island, was founded as a Catholic mission for the Tiwi Aborigines. Ownership of Bathurst was then handed back to the Tiwi people in 1978.

Bathurst Island is probably most well known for the annual Tiwi football grand final held at Nguiu in March or April. This is not just a football match; it's a true Territory experience. The barefooted Tiwi league has produced a number of AFL legends and the event incorporates an enormous Tiwi Art Sale – a rare chance for people to visit the Island, observe artists at work and purchase unique Tiwi art at Island prices. On these days permits are not required to visit the Island.

Aussie Adventure Holidays (Tiwi Tours) is the principal tour operator to Bathurst Island and visitors can choose from a one-day island tour or two-day overnight camp.

1 day Bathurst Island tour includes:
- a tour through the Nguiu community with a Tiwi guide
- visits to the museum, Early Mission Precinct and unique Tiwi style Catholic Church
- a tour of Tiwi art centres where artists can be observed at their work and visitors can purchase superb Tiwi art at Island prices.
- billy tea and damper with the ‘Tiwi Ladies' while they work on their weaving and painting
- a performance of the totem dance by the Tiwi Ladies
- a scenic drive through Bathurst Island's pristine wilderness
- a visit to a Tiwi lookout and Tiwi burial site where visitors learn about rituals associated with the Pukamani (burial) poles
- a delicious lunch and afternoon swim in a beautiful local waterhole
- talks about traditional bush tucker, bush medicine and natural fibres and dyes

2 day Bathurst Island camper includes:
- All activities mentioned above on first day
- Camp site at Moantu – home of the Rainbow Serpent – overlooking a large freshwater lake. Campfire dinner
- Tour of Cape Fourcroy – talks about traditional uses of native flora and fauna with a Tiwi guide
- Visit to Tomorrupi Waterfall for lunch and a swim
- Visit to Tiwi burial site and talks on burial rituals

Tours depart from Darwin airport and include airfares, transport on the island, permits, camping equipment and meals. For more information contact Aussie Adventure Holidays on (08) 8924 1111 or visit them on the web at www.aussieadventure.com.au

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