As part of our visit to RainForeStation, we purchased the “Big Nature Package” which included the Pamagirri Cultural Center. This experience demonstrated boomerang and spear throwing, didgeridoo playing, and a Pamagirri Aboriginal Dance Performance.
Boomerang Demonstration
After receiving clear instructions from our guide, each guest was given a chance to throw a boomerang. They even had special left-handed boomerangs available. Lary was the first one to throw and had the best boomerang return.
Didgeridoo Demonstration
Our guide explained the fascinating way didgeridoos are made. Termites eat the inside if the tree trunks. As you walk through the forest, you tap on the wood to hear if it is hollow. Then it is cut down and filled with hot coals to burn the interior. Wax is applied to the top.
The sounds of the didgeridoo are made by blowing with relaxed lips. The circular breathing technique is the hardest to master.
The Pamagirri people use a special tool called a woomera to help launch the spear across the field. The world record holder for distance works at this cultural center.
Pamagirri Dance
The dance performance was informational and entertaining. It was a neat peak into traditions passed down of the aboriginal people.
The setting for the dance performance was not ideal. The narrator didn’t have a microphone, and a large portion of the overcapacity audience was speaking loudly to each other.
Overall, we enjoyed the experience. However, I wish we had more time throwing boomerangs, the performance had better production, and it didn’t feel so rushed.
Tips:
- When getting your timed schedule at the ticket box, ask for the least crowded time for experiences.
- Ask questions to draw out more information.
- Request another try at throwing the boomerang; One just isn’t enough!
