The haunting tones of a lone didgeridoo weave through the gum trees and up into the warm evening air as the moon rises majestically over hilltops.

Aboriginal dancers spring into life around a fire which crackles and flares. 

This is not the Australian outback – this is the Swan Valley, just 20 minutes from Perth. It may come as a surprise that sites of Aboriginal cultural significance are scattered throughout the area, some dating back 40,000 years.

Now for the first time it’s possible to learn more about this fascinating history with a new coach and walking tour, called Kangaroo Dreaming Trail.

Aboriginal guide Steven Jackson leads the trip to several places, the first at Walyunga National Park, known as a ‘scatter site’.

Shards of rock and stone have been left scattered around by generations of Noongars who used the area to make traditional tools and weapons.

As many as 600 people gathered at the site to meet, trade and make tools and it was still in use some 60 years after white settlement. Other areas visited include Maambrup and Bells Rapids. 

At Maambrup the story of Kangaroo Woman is told and visitors view a Kangaroo Dreaming Site. Bells Rapids is an area rich in stories about the Wagyl or Rainbow Serpent, which local tribes believed formed the waterways as it progressed through the valley.

Throughout the day, Steve keeps visitors informed about the native flora and its various uses.

Substances taken from the balga tree for example had more than a hundred uses in the traditional lifestyle – from an ingredient in cakes to a resin for tool making.

The tour also includes boomerang throwing lessons, a didgeridoo and dance performance, a demonstration on the ancient art of tool making, a visit to the Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery and wine tastings at the Natural Wine Company.

It concludes at the River Retreat where a bush tucker lunch is served complete with emu rissoles and kangaroo steaks.

The Kangaroo Dreaming Trail runs each Thursday and bookings are essential. 

For more information contact Ngala Koondarm Boodjah on 9296 0242, or info@maailimia.com.au or Just U Me & Perth Tours 0412 784 579 or umeandperth@iprimus.com.au