Worn Gundidj
It is an Indigenous-led social enterprise based in Warrnambool. As a profit-for-purpose business, it focuses on creating opportunities for Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members, particularly through employment and cultural engagement. Established over two decades ago, Worn Gundidj is dedicated to promoting Indigenous culture, providing community services, and delivering environmental and social benefits. Through its three key enterprises – Worn Gundidj at Tower Hill, Worn Gundidj Bush Foods, and Worn Gundidj Nursery – it offers an authentic, hands-on way to learn about Indigenous culture and support local sustainability initiatives.
Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
Worn Gundidj provides an immersive experience into the world of Indigenous culture and the natural environment. The reserve, set in an extinct volcanic crater, is home to an array of local wildlife and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This area is of deep cultural significance to the Gunditjmara people, and Worn Gundidj’s tours highlight the unique connections between the land, wildlife, and culture. The reserve’s rich history makes it an ideal destination for anyone interested in learning more about Australia’s Indigenous heritage while enjoying the beauty of nature.
Through guided tours, visitors have the opportunity to learn about traditional Aboriginal land management practices, the significance of local wildlife, and how the Gunditjmara people have lived sustainably for thousands of years. With a focus on cultural education and environmental stewardship, Worn Gundidj at Tower Hill brings Indigenous perspectives to the forefront, providing guests with a deeper understanding of the landscape and its history.
Worn Gundidj’s Social Enterprise Model
At the heart of Worn Gundidj is a strong commitment to social impact. The organisation operates as a social enterprise, focusing on bettering the lives of Indigenous and disadvantaged individuals by providing them with the skills, employment opportunities, and support needed to succeed. This approach has made Worn Gundidj a beacon of positive change in the community.
The Tower Hill tours and programs are part of a broader social enterprise model that helps Indigenous job seekers and local community members gain valuable experience and enter the workforce. Through partnerships with local councils and businesses, Worn Gundidj ensures that its social procurement framework supports community engagement and delivers tangible outcomes. By offering employment, training, and cultural engagement opportunities, Worn Gundidj empowers individuals to take control of their future and build meaningful careers.
In addition to its tourism and education programs, Worn Gundidj supports a number of community initiatives that foster well-being, social inclusion, and economic self-determination. Their community programs focus on areas such as mental health, social skills development, and recreational activities, creating a supportive environment for people to thrive.
Things to Do with Kids
For families visiting Worn Gundidj, there is no shortage of activities to engage young minds while fostering an appreciation for nature and culture. Things to do with kids at Worn Gundidj are both fun and educational, offering hands-on experiences that highlight the cultural significance of the land and its history.
The Tower Hill tour programs are particularly suited for children, offering a great introduction to Indigenous culture through interactive and entertaining experiences. Kids can learn about local wildlife, explore the stunning landscapes, and even participate in cultural activities that connect them with the environment. From educational bush food tastings to hands-on lessons about traditional tools and technologies, these experiences allow young ones to gain a unique insight into the rich history of the Gunditjmara people.
In addition to the tours, Worn Gundidj offers school programs that provide in-depth learning experiences for students. These programs focus on Indigenous culture, ecology, and history, giving children the chance to engage with experts and gain valuable knowledge in an interactive and enjoyable way. Through these activities, kids not only develop a greater understanding of Indigenous traditions but also acquire a deep respect for the natural world.
Worn Gundidj Bush Foods: Sourcing and Sharing Indigenous Cuisine
Worn Gundidj’s Bush Foods enterprise is an important part of their mission to connect people with the land and its rich food traditions. The enterprise supplies a wide range of native Australian food products, many of which are used in their cultural tours and events. The Worn Gundidj Bush Foods range includes unique ingredients that bring Indigenous flavours to the kitchen, offering both home cooks and chefs the chance to experiment with native herbs, spices, and fruits.
Through the Bush Foods initiative, Worn Gundidj also supports Indigenous communities by creating employment opportunities in the food production sector. The organisation’s commitment to sustainability and responsible sourcing ensures that all products are made with care for the environment, using ethically harvested ingredients. This enterprise not only provides customers with authentic, high-quality products but also plays an important role in preserving and promoting Indigenous food traditions.
Worn Gundidj Nursery: Cultivating Indigenous Plants for a Sustainable Future
Worn Gundidj’s Nursery is another essential component of its operations, offering locally grown native plants that support environmental sustainability. The nursery focuses on the cultivation of plants native to the Great South West, which are used in land care, conservation, and agricultural projects. By sourcing native seeds from diverse ecosystems, Worn Gundidj contributes to the region’s biodiversity and promotes climate resilience.
Through the Worn Gundidj Seed Project, the organisation works to raise awareness of Indigenous edible plants and reintroduce these species into the community. This project helps to preserve Indigenous knowledge while providing valuable resources for local conservation efforts.
Worn Gundidj is a unique and multifaceted enterprise that offers something for everyone. To engage with Indigenous culture through guided tours, explore native Australian cuisine, or support sustainable environmental practices through their nursery, Worn Gundidj provides opportunities for learning, community engagement, and empowerment. Its commitment to social enterprise and cultural preservation makes it a standout in Warrnambool, offering meaningful experiences for locals and visitors alike.
