River Retreat Western Australia Australia

“Didge After Dark” performance brings the beliefs of the Noongar People alive through traditional music, dance and hands on activities.

The River Retreat offers a range of performances and activities designed to entertain and educate. The Swan River borders our ten acre property and is the link for the activities.

The River Retreat has developed a natural riverside amphitheatre. Set under the giant rivergums this campfire area is the perfect canvas on which the stories of The Dreamtime and early Colonial Settlement can be experienced.

Scheduled performances and activities include:

At dusk join us for “Didge After Dark” an Australian Bush tucker barbecue with Australian bush foods. Then walk to the riverbank joining the Noongar people or our Swagman around the fire pit to share the stories of this land and their meaning. Local indigenous performers demonstrate to you the dance and culture of the Noongar people which is a living window back to the Dreamtime

Visit the Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery and gift shop, view a superb range of traditional and contemporary Aboriginal artworks, gifts and souvenirs. Maalinup make real returning boomerangs, authentic didgeridoos and clapping sticks in their workshops, why not try out a boomerang in our back paddock. You’ll be sure to find the perfect a memento of your stay which will bring back lasting images from your own “Dream-time” holiday. Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery is now open in its beautiful new premises on site at the River Retreat. Open everyday 1000 to 1700.

“Nature Trail” led by a naturalist along this section of the Swan River and followed by a touch table of finds for you to explore.

All activities are held outdoors and are therefore subject to good weather. Minimum numbers also apply. Activities and performances are scheduled from September to May.

Also available on site is four star self contained accommodation suited to families. (see The River Retreat accommodation listing).

Touring Options

Didge After Dark

Digeridoo playing, dancing, campfire, swagman, bushfood are all part of Didge After Dark cultural performance. The evening brings the beliefs of the Noongar People alive through traditional music, dance and hands on activities. Set under the stars and giant Rivergums our campfire ampitheatre is the perfect canvas on which the stories of The Dreamtime and early Colonial Settlement can be experienced. Enjoy a bushtucker barbecue, including kangaroo, emu, crocodile prior to the campfire activity, then relax afterwards with freshly brewed coffee and delicious deserts.

Website: www.theriverretreat.com.au