Bulahdelah Mountain Aboriginal Place - Cultural, Spiritual, and Historical Importance

Each time I traveled north on the Pacific Highway on the Mid North Coast New South Wales through Bulahdelah, I would gaze at Mountain Face and dream of climbing it. Today, I finally did! I only learned about the Bulahdelah Mountain Aboriginal Place today, despite having lived in the area since 2017.

Bulahdelah Mountain Magnificent Foliage

Upon climbing the hill, I immediately sensed I was in for something special! This hike requires a certain level of fitness due to its steep sections. The area was filled with ferns, and the birds were creating a lot of noise with their singing and chirping.

Bulahdelah Mountain Aboriginal Place: A Cultural and Historical Overview

Bulahdelah Mountain Aboriginal Place is situated within the picturesque confines of Bulahdelah State Forest, positioned to the east of the township of Bulahdelah in New South Wales, Australia.

This area is not merely a geographical location; it holds profound significance as an Aboriginal Place, a designation that acknowledges the rich cultural, spiritual, and historical importance of the land to the Worimi people, who are the Traditional Owners of this territory. The Worimi people have a deep-rooted connection to this land that spans thousands of years, and their heritage is intricately linked to the natural landscape of Bulahdelah Mountain.

As I embarked on my walk through this serene forest, I found myself immersed in contemplation, pondering what life must have been like in this very area approximately 4,000 years ago. The landscape, rich with flora and fauna, would have provided the Worimi people with sustenance and shelter. I could envision the land carers, skilled in their understanding of the environment, moving gracefully through the dense underbrush, foraging for food, and engaging in traditional practices that have been passed down through generations.

As I made my way along the tracks, I came across the traditional tree carvings, a cultural space with seating and a fire-pit. The carved trees are there to remind people walking by that this is a special area, a message to visitors that Boolah-Dillah Mountain has spiritual significance.

This was a special place to stop and get my breath and be thankful to Mother Nature for the beauty she shares with us.

Along the tracks the views are spectacular. I was making my way to Mountain Lookout. There were a few fallen trees blocking the path and it is steep in places with steps.

Today, as we walk through Bulahdelah State Forest, it is essential to acknowledge and honour this heritage. The forest not only serves as a beautiful recreational area for visitors but also as a sacred space for the Worimi people, who continue to maintain their connection to the land. By learning about and respecting the history of Bulahdelah Mountain, we contribute to the preservation of the cultural landscape and support the ongoing recognition of Aboriginal rights and heritage.

And, when I arrived the views were magnificent! Truly spectacular and worth the climb.

However, I had another climb to tackle after this one. It was now time to descend from Mountain Lookout and make my way up to the Ted Baker Lookout. Along the way, I noticed some beautiful native flowers.

And finally, I made it!

Directions to Bulahdelah Mountain Aboriginal Place.