Last Wednesday marked a significant occasion at Reflections Boambee Creek Reserve, with the official unveiling of the Buwanbi Story Board at the popular Reserve.

Buwanbi translates as 'Go on First', This may have been named by a non-Indigenous person observing a Gumbaynggirr in a single-file hunting party say this to another; that is: 'You go on first!']

'The Women Who Made The Sea' is a traditional story of the Gumbaynggirr Nation, the traditional land owners of Boambee Creek. The placement of the story board finally recognises and preserves the traditional stories that will remain here on Gumbaynggirr Country.

Boambee Creek Reserve Managers Tanya Jonas and Alvena Abbott have worked with local elder Aunty Bea Ballangarry to create the Story Board, calling its unveiling an important recognition of the place the Reserve occupies, as well as being just the start of strong relationships with members of their local indigenous community.

“We have been in talks with local elders and councils for over twelve months to make this day happen so this unveiling is a hugely significant event for all involved,” Tanya said.

“The formal recognition of this area holding significance for our indigenous community is an important step toward teaching all members of our local community about connectedness to Country.

“We're excited for visitors to Boambee Creek to learn about Buwanbi and to gain an insight into the rich history of the Gumbaynggirr Nation.”

Reflections Holiday Parks CEO Steve Edmonds said Tanya and Alvena's work with the Gumbaynggirr People was part of a group effort to further foster relationships and build indigenous ties across NSW.

“With all 37 of our parks sitting on Crown land it is important to recognise the history and significance to indigenous communities to the land in which they sit,” Mr Edmonds said.

“The unveiling of the Buwanbi  story board is a momentous occasion for all involved in the project and represents an important step forward in building relationships with the traditional custodians of Boambee Creek Reserve.

“I encourage all visiting the Coffs Coast Region to make their way to Boambee to gain an awareness of the local indigenous culture of the Gumbaynggirr Nation.”