Bullanginya Dreaming has taken out first place in the Storytelling category at the 2024 Blooloop Innovation Awards.

The global awards highlight the most innovative attractions, technologies, products and experiences shaping the visitor attractions industry.

Bullanginya Dreaming was produced, created and designed in collaboration with A.C.H.E (Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Education) and LASERVISION.

Located on the banks of the Bullanginya Lagoon, the immersive laser light show takes visitors on a 1.8km journey through the region’s Aboriginal history, with 12 light activations telling the stories of the Bangerang people.

The 60-90-minute experience aims to entertain and educate visitors on the significance of local flora, fauna and Country.

The exhibition received funding from the Australian and NSW Governments and Barooga Sports Club, the creator of the project.

Sporties Barooga CEO Glen Bobby Brooks said: “We are thrilled that Australia’s first permanent Luna Light Journey has been recognised for its outstanding Indigenous narrative and immersive cultural experience. It's a remarkable result, and a testament to all involved.“

Thousands of visitors have visited the experience since it opened in May 2024, injecting more than $200,000 in expenditure into the visitor economy.

Many visitors stay in Barooga and visiting other attractions, eating out and shopping, and well over a third of visitors are coming from more than 50km away.

Before starting the project, developer Barooga Sports Club engaged with the traditional owners of the area, the Bangerang people, to ensure the experience reflected the cultural significance of the land and its stories.

Aboriginal artist Rebecca Atkinson's work serving as the inspiration for each of the 12 light activations.

“My artwork tells a story, whether it’s about scar trees, birthing trees, or bush medicine, my artwork tells people about the First Nation’s rich history, right here in our own backyard," Ms Atkinson said.

“Much of my art features the land, water, sky and wildlife and the reason why those elements are so important – it tells the story of how we are all connected to the world around us.”

Culturally significant discoveries were made during the project, including birthing trees which were sacred places of women’s business.

Supporting the local Aboriginal people was a key driver for the project, with staff completing cultural immersion training and 10 per cent of the sales of all merchandise going back to the Bangerang community

Bullanginya Dreaming is an accessible tourism attraction with pathways designed to accommodate visitors with disability or mobility issues.

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said: “We know regional NSW is home to some stunning sights and the combination of the natural beauty of the Murray River region and this light and sound show is no exception.

“This project is also a great example of what can be achieved through partnership between the community and Aboriginal businesses and government.”

“The NSW Government is committed to growing a vibrant visitor economy across the state by supporting a diverse range of visitor experiences, driven by locals, who know their communities best."

For more information and tickets go to: https://bullanginyadreaming.com.au/