Noongar welcome for cruise tourists

The passengers of luxury cruise ship Amadea would have seen many wonders since leaving France on their round-the-world trip.

But many of the mostly German passengers would never have seen a traditional Noongar performance from Bunbury.

That is exactly what they were treated to on Monday night when the Amadea docked in Bunbury.

Troy Bennell and his dance group Noyt Kobroi performed for the passengers and Mr Bennell then explained the cultural significance of the area. He said it was the first time many of the passengers had seen or heard a didgeridoo.

“For me it was a great experience for myself and the young boys on board, ” he said.

The Amadea is one of three ships owned by European company Phoenix Risen and Mr Bennell’s performance was organised by Australian tour agent Insight Australia.

Director Birgit Bourne said it was the only Aboriginal performance on the ship while it was in Australia. She said the feedback from the passengers and staff had been positive.

“They loved it and they all thought it was fantastic, ” she said.

Mr Bennell hopes the experience won’t be the last time he performs on a luxury cruise ship.

He also runs an Aboriginal cultural tours company called Ngalang Wongi, which means “our story”.

Tourists are given trips around many culturally significant sites in Bunbury including Marlston Hill and Wardandi Memorial Park.