SEALINK South East Queensland (SEQ) has partnered with respected Quandamooka Elder Matt Burns to share the ancient stories and cultural wisdom of North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) through its signature Indigenous experience, the Goompi Trail.
A proud Noonuccal and Nughi man, Mr Burns has been delivering First Nations tourism experiences for more than 30 years.
Raised on Minjerribah as a traditional hunter and gatherer, his connection to Country is personal and profound.
With knowledge passed down through generations, he brings the land and its stories to life through artefacts, cultural performances and hands-on demonstrations that invite guests to learn, connect and reflect.
“I’ve been doing this all my life,” Mr Burns 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.”
Unlike newer offerings, the Goompi Trail is a well-established and deeply local experience, now marking its 30th year.
Created by Mr Burns and still personally led by him, the coastal walk takes guests through Dunwich (Goompi), providing a First Nations perspective on the island’s ancient past – from bush medicine and traditional hunting methods to native wildlife and culturally significant sites.
The journey begins with a scenic ferry ride from Cleveland to Minjerribah, where guests are greeted with a traditional Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony beneath native gums.
They then take part in an interactive presentation of traditional tools and hunting implements before setting out on the coastal walk.
Along the way, Mr Burns shares stories about bush medicine, native foods and the natural signs that guided Quandamooka people for tens of thousands of years.
“It’s not just a tour. It’s a cultural conversation,” he said.
“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.”
In addition to the Goompi Trail, SeaLink offers a range of immersive cultural workshops co-designed and led by Mr Burns.
These include Bush Tucker and Bush Medicine Tours, spear and boomerang throwing demonstrations, dance and didgeridoo workshops, and cultural awareness programs tailored for schools, workplaces and groups.
The day concludes with a leisurely rooftop meal at Straddie Brewing Co, featuring a locally inspired lunch and craft beverages, before guests return to the mainland on a SeaLink ferry service of their choosing.
Mr Burns’ programs are recognised across Queensland for their educational and cultural value.
He regularly partners with schools, universities and government bodies, and delivers Indigenous cultural training to SeaLink employees working in the Quandamooka region, ensuring authentic and respectful engagement with Country and community.
Ben Renwick, General Manager for SeaLink South East Queensland, said Mr Burns’ work was foundational to the company’s reconciliation journey in the region.
“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.”
