National nod for Ngilgi Cave project

One of the region’s most popular tourist attractions has taken out a major award at the Interpretation Australia National Awards for Excellence this month.

The Ngilgi Ancient Lands Experience collected the Best Outdoor Interpretation Project award, which celebrates the project’s success in bringing to life the history, culture, and environment of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park.

Set above historic Ngilgi Cave, the Experience guides visitors along a pathway through native bushland and features five interpretive “nodes” which allow visitors to learn more about the formation of the limestone caves, local flora and fauna, and the deep connection of Wadandi people to the environment through the traditional seasons.

The cave and surrounds in managed by the Margaret River Tourism Association (MRBTA) Capes Foundation, one of the four caves throughout the region under its long term care.

“We are delighted that Ngilgi Cave Ancient Lands received this prestigious award,” Capes Foundation Director Steve Harrison said.

“We know that today’s visitors are looking for authentic connection to the destinations they visit, and interpretive storytelling offers a powerful way to achieve this.”

The Experience pathway is designed to be fully accessible, allowing people of all abilities to take part.

The project was completed through collaboration with local artists, contractors, storytellers, and Wadandi traditional custodian Josh Whiteland of Koomal Dreaming.

“MRBTA’s Capes Foundation is proud to be able to continually reinvest in and refresh the visitor experiences on offer at the sites entrusted to our care,” Mr Harrison said.

“This helps us to continue to meet visitor expectations, and ensures that visitors come away with a deep and lasting impression of what makes this region special.”

The project was managed in-house by Capes Foundation Assets and Environment Manager, Mark Delane and interpretive elements were created by Gibson International, who brought the vision to life.

Tod Kearns, Site Manager at Ngilgi Cave said the response has been overwhelmingly positive, with visitors and school groups sharing great feedback.

“The feedback from visitors has been wonderful,” Mr Kearns said.

“People love walking through the bushland and learning about the region’s heritage.

“The Ancient Lands Experience adds a new layer to the Ngilgi cave visit.”

For more details on the Ngilgi Ancient Lands Experience, visit www.capesfoundation.org.au.