What’s Happening?
SeaLink South East Queensland (SEQ) has partnered with respected Quandamooka Elder Matt Burns to celebrate 30 years of the Goompi Trail, a signature Indigenous experience on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah). The partnership continues to strengthen cultural education and connection through storytelling, traditional practices, and immersive learning experiences led by Mr Burns himself.
Why It Matters
For three decades, the Goompi Trail has stood as a bridge between cultures—sharing the ancient knowledge and traditions of the Quandamooka people with visitors from across Australia and beyond. Through this enduring collaboration, SeaLink SEQ and Mr Burns aim to deepen understanding, respect, and appreciation for Aboriginal culture, while preserving and celebrating one of Australia’s most significant cultural landscapes.
Zoom In
A proud Noonuccal and Nughi man, Matt Burns has spent more than 30 years sharing the stories and traditions of his people. Raised on Minjerribah as a traditional hunter and gatherer, he brings generations of knowledge to life through the Goompi Trail experience. “I’ve been doing this all my life,” he said. “The most rewarding part is seeing people change their perspectives when they learn something new about Aboriginal culture or history, and it really stays with them.”
Each tour begins with a scenic SeaLink passenger ferry ride from Cleveland to Dunwich (Goompi). Visitors are welcomed with a traditional Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony beneath native gums, followed by a presentation of traditional tools and hunting implements. As guests walk along the coastline with Mr Burns, they learn about bush medicine, native foods, and culturally significant sites that shaped Quandamooka life before colonisation.
“It’s not just a tour,” said Mr Burns. “It’s a cultural conversation. We talk about how our people lived, the signs and sounds we look for in nature, and how everything is connected. You come away with a new awareness of the land around you.”
Zoom Out
Beyond the Goompi Trail, SeaLink SEQ and Mr Burns have developed a suite of cultural experiences designed to educate and engage groups of all ages. These include:
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Bush Tucker and Bush Medicine Tours – Exploring the use of native plants for healing, nourishment, and sustainable living.
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Spear and Boomerang Throwing Demonstrations – Showcasing traditional hunting techniques and the skill behind these ancient tools.
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Dance and Didgeridoo Workshops – Featuring local performers sharing stories through movement and music.
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Cultural Awareness Programs – Interactive sessions for schools, workplaces, and community groups to foster understanding and respect for Quandamooka culture.
Each day concludes with a rooftop meal at Straddie Brewing Co, where guests enjoy local food and beverages before returning to the mainland on a SeaLink ferry.
SeaLink SEQ General Manager Ben Renwick said Mr Burns’ work has been foundational to the company’s reconciliation journey. “Matt’s passion and knowledge create truly meaningful experiences for both visitors and our team,” he said. “He’s been a pioneer in Indigenous tourism on the island for a long time, and we’re proud to support the continuation and growth of these incredible experiences.”
Mr Burns’ programs are now recognised across Queensland for their cultural and educational impact. He works regularly with schools, universities, and government bodies, and trains SeaLink employees in cultural awareness, ensuring genuine and respectful engagement with Country and community.
Local Impact
Minjerribah, the second largest sand island in the world, is home to some of the oldest cultural sites in Australia. Its rich biodiversity includes kangaroos, koalas, whales, dolphins, and turtles. The Goompi Trail gives visitors a rare opportunity to connect with this ancient land through the eyes of its traditional custodians.
“Minjerribah is a place of deep history, rich culture and stunning beauty,” said Mr Burns. “When you take the time to walk with us, to listen and learn, you see this place differently—and that’s what makes it powerful.”
What To Look For Next
As SeaLink SEQ continues to embed cultural learning into its operations, more First Nations-led experiences are expected to expand across the region. Visitors can learn more or book the Goompi Trail and other cultural tours HERE.
