Head for south-western Victoria and discover the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape, one of Australia's most fascinating and important heritage sites. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2019, it is the first site in Australia to be recognised solely for its Aboriginal cultural values. Spanning the traditional Country of the Gunditjmara people, Budj Bim is home to one of the world's oldest and most sophisticated aquaculture systems, dating back at least 6,600 years.
What is Budj Bim, and why is it significant?
Budj Bim isn't just an ancient site, it serves as a living testament to the deep cultural knowledge and engineering skills of the Gunditjmara people. The aquaculture system reflects a remarkable mastery of hydrological engineering, with stone structures used to control water flow and create ideal conditions for eel farming. The landscape also contains evidence of permanent stone dwellings, defying the myth that Aboriginal people are solely nomadic.
Archaeological findings also reveal that the region has been continuously inhabited for over 32,000 years, making it one of the oldest known sites of human occupation in Australia. The ongoing use and care of the aquaculture systems by Gunditjmara Traditional Owners further highlight the site's enduring cultural importance.
What can you see and do at Budj Bim?
Visitors to Budj Bim can explore three distinct areas, each offering a unique perspective on the landscape's cultural and natural heritage. Budj Bim (northern) is located in the Budj Bim National Park, and this area features Lake Surprise, volcanic craters, and lava flows. There are also guided tours that can explain the aquaculture system and its history. Kurtontj (central) is known as the 'crossing place' because this area contains ancient stone channels and weirs used to manage water and direct eels into traps. Tyrendarra (southern), owned by the Winda-Mara Aboriginal Corporation, is an area rich in cultural significance and features Indigenous Protected Areas. Tours led by Gunditjmara Traditional Owners offer visitors the chance to learn firsthand about the site's history, aquaculture techniques, and cultural heritage.
Where is Budj Bim?
The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape is located around 300 kilometres west of Melbourne, near Heywood. The site is about a three and a half hour drive from the centre of Melbourne, and the best way to get to the area is by car.
Is a trip to Budj Bim trip worth it?
Absolutely. Budj Bim offers a rare chance to experience an ancient and enduring Indigenous legacy – a remarkable testament to engineering, cultural continuity, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover or someone looking for a deeper understanding of Indigenous culture, Budj Bim is definitely a must-visit destination.
For more information and to book tours, you can visit the website here.
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