Aboriginal Culture & Art

Aboriginal people have lived in the Barkly region for over 40,000 years. The traditional owners of the land include the Warumungu, Warlpiri, Kaytetye and Alyawarre people. The region is steeped in the traditions and culture of these people.

The best known landmark of the region Karlu Karlu / The Devils Marbles is a sacred site for the Warumungu people. This scattered collection of giant granite boulders, many balanced precariously on top of others is a site not to be missed. So too is its smaller cousin Kunjarra / The Pebbles, just to the north of Tennant Creek.

For a deeper understanding of aboriginal culture, the award winning Nyinkka Nyunyu Art & Culture Centre houses a range of exhibitions, cultural displays and local artwork. Take a guided tour with local legend Jerry Kelly.

If travelling south of Tennant Creek, take a detour to Ali Curung and drop in to Arlpwe Art Gallery. The gallery covers a range of visual arts produced in the community and it has proved to be a treasure trove for art lovers, collectors and international visitors alike.