Cultural Secrets around Australia

Excursions around Australia that will open your eyes to another world.

Northern Territory

Early-morning crying ceremonies at a beach in the Gulf of Carpentaria, weaving lessons, conversations about women’s business: these are all part of the Lirrwi Tourism tour that gives women the rare opportunity to immerse themselves in Yolngu culture under the guidance of the Indigenous women whose people have lived on this land for eons.

Catherine Marshall

Victoria

TarraWarra Museum of Art, Healesville

It’s clear from its exterior that this gallery has serious artistic ambitions. Designed by architect Allan Powell, the building is magnificently sculpted into the landscape. The gallery focuses on Australian works from the mid-20th century onwards, with pieces by Brett Whiteley, Fred Williams, Rosalie Gascoigne and Russell Drysdale. Visit for one of the seasonal exhibitions then enjoy a pinot noir at the estate’s cellar door.

Ellie Schneider

Queensland

First Coat, Toowoomba

Each May, the First Coat festival sees talented international and homegrown street artists transform Toowoomba, turning jaded brick and plaster façades into explosive, colourful murals. The First Coat website hasa guide to the city’s street art so you can tour the outdoor gallery whenever you visit.

Guy Wilkinson

Western Australia

The Odd Fellow, Perth

Fun fact: before it became The Odd Fellow, the basement of Fremantle’s Norfolk Hotel was where internationally lauded psych rockers Tame Impala cut their teeth. It’s the tantalising prospect of catching the next big thing that makes this unassuming local such a compelling live-music option. A focus on great drinks and even better service doesn’t hurt, either.

Max Veenhuyzen

New South Wales

Avoca Beach Picture Theatre, Avoca Beach

Located right on the beach in stunning Avoca, this fourth-generation family-run theatre is a cinephile’s dream. Decked out with a wonderfully retro feel, it has an emphasis on art-house, foreign and Australian films. The selection of wines and freshly made choc-top ice-creams only enhances the cinematic experience.

Guy Wilkinson

Tasmania

The Golden Hour at MONA, Hobart

Soak up the sunset and enjoy the spectacle of James Turrell’s rooftop “skyspace”, Amarna (2015), then retire to Wine bar for Heavy Metal Kitchen on Wednesdays and Thursdays. MONA’s take on communal dining offers a three-course menu ($79), matching wine ($50) and banter with the stranger on your left (free).

Jo Cook