Business
4 June, 2025
Popular tourism operator back up and running
Yagurli Tours is hoping for an influx of visitors, both from across the country and locally.
Yagurli Tours, an Indigenous owned and operated tourism business, says it is eagerly anticipating the return of visitors to the Gulf Savannah region after a tough period for the tourism industry.
Owned and operated by the Gangalidda and Garawa people, the Burketown-based Yagurli Tours offers immersive cultural experiences that highlight the rich heritage and natural beauty of the area.
Manager and Traditional Owner Lurick Sowden expressed optimism about reopening to visitors.
“Yagurli Tours has created a stepping stone for the community. We get to show what we have here and show people enjoying what we have always loved about our home,” he said.
“Forget about the main highways and the busy cities, come to Burketown where you can fish along the Albert River, drive across a saltpan, and much, much more”.
Yagurli Tours offer a four-wheel drive cultural tour, a Gambumanda sunset cruise, storytelling and stargazing tour, fishing charters, and hot air balloon scenic flights.
Mr Sowden said Burketown was more accessible than ever due to improved roads and infrastructure, dispelling the belief that a four-wheel drive was always necessary.
He said Yagurli Tours had invested in additional boats, mini-buses, and four-wheel drives to enhance visitor experiences.
Graham Poon, the CEO of Gangalidda and Garawa NTAC, which owns Yagurli Tours, said he encouraged North West locals to consider visiting and supporting a local venture.
“Tourism plays a vital role in the Burketown community, and the visitor economy provides local Indigenous people with not only employment but the opportunity to share and protect culture through the stories of the Gangalidda and Garawa people,” he said.
Yagurli Tours operates seasonally from May to October, coinciding with the dry season for optimal travel conditions.
Visitors are encouraged to book early to secure their preferred tour dates.
Online bookings are available at www.yagurlitours.com.au.