Try your hand at basket weaving, spear throwing, or playing the Didgeridoo – Aboriginal communities offer a true insight into an ancient culture.
Discover why Katherine has been an important meeting place for indigenous people for many thousands of years. This, combined with European settlement, has led to Katherine having a rich tradition of art, and a deep awareness of its culture and heritage.
Creative culture
Galleries in Katherine specialise in locally produced works reflecting the styles and influences of the Jawoyn, Warlpiri and Dagoman Aboriginal people. As well as viewing artwork, visitors can watch and participate in art and craft being produced, from didgeridoos and boomerangs, to weaving, dilly bags, clap sticks and carvings.
Walk out
The Escarpment Walk through the eastern section of the Judbarra / Gregory National Park includes interpretive signs explaining the Nungali-Ngaliwurru and Wardaman stories. Find examples of Miriwoong and Gadgerong rock art at the Nganalam Art Site at Keep River National Park, while the beautiful isolated gorge at Umbrawarra Gorge Nature Park is adorned with the art of the Wagiman people.
Community spirit
Festivals are a huge part of Katherine’s cultural identity. From the Katherine Canoe Marathon and Katherine Country Music Muster, to the Pine Creek Goldrush Festival and a range of fishing, horse racing and rodeo meets, Katherine’s calendar is filled with unique events that bring in locals and out-of-towners alike.
Museums in Katherine offer great insight into Aboriginal and post-European settlement history. As well as the establishment of the Katherine Telegraph Station, the building of the railway, gold mining and the establishment of police and infrastructure, many are unaware of the part Katherine played in WWII.
