Deep Cultural Significance
Both Boorabee and The Willows have a deep cultural and spiritual significance for traditional owners, the Ngoorabul people.
The Glen Innes Local Aboriginal Land Council purchased The Willows in 1987, an area rich in flora and fauna, and home to several rare and endangered species.
Nearby, the Boorabee Aboriginal Corporation purchased three adjoining properties Rosemont, Canon and Boorabee. Together, these properties were declared an Indigenous Protected Area to protect and support the sustainable use of natural resources.
In total, there are about 10,500 hectares of land, with 22 kilometers of Severn River frontage, which is home to numerous sites of significant cultural importance.
Connected to the Land
The Ngoorabul people are committed to the conservation of wildlife, bush food and medicine.
The Willows and Boorabee contain many tree and plant species including the endangered white box, yellow box, Mugga Ironbark and Blakely’s red gum woodlands.
The area has Stringy Bark She Oak which is noted for the ‘hairy bark’ which was often collected and used to start campfires. The timber from these trees was also used to make tools including boomerangs. Other species include, the Redeye Astra Cycad and Spinifex, an uncommon grass that is plentiful throughout the area.
Eco-Tourism
The beauty and tranquility of the area attracts visitors interested in various forms of ecotourism.
Nature lovers, fishermen, birdwatchers will enjoy over 30 endangered species and the famous Murray Cod. Due to the location and gorges, the Severn River has no introduced fish species.
There are walking tracks with signage to help you understand the unique plant and animal species present in each community. Birdwatching is another popular drawcard. The large area of woodlands attracts a large variety of birds including several rare species. Spring and early summer are the best times to see the diverse range of birds that occur on the properties. Guided cultural tours can be arranged with a minimum of four people.
Self-contained accommodation is available and camping for $25/person/night, with a $50 key deposit. 44km north west from the Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre, around a 34 minute drive.
If you are interested in visiting The Willows or Boorabee, contact the Glen Innes Local Aboriginal Lands Council on (02) 6732 1150 between 8.30am to 11am Monday to Friday.
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Acknowledgement of Country
Glen Innes Highlands acknowledges and pays respect to the Ngoorabul people as the traditional custodians of this land, their elders past, present and emerging, and to Torres Strait Islander people and all First Nations people.
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