Cultural Tours, Paid Activities

Duration: Approx 1.5 hours

Time: 09:00pm – 10:30pm

Tickets: ON SALE NOW

Join us for a groundbreaking collaboration at the Jamba Nyinayi Festival, where Ningaloo Stars merges seamlessly with the rich cultural heritage of Baiyungu Dreaming.

This unique event invites you to embark on an unforgettable night that honours both modern astronomy and timeless storytelling of the First Nations Peoples.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Ningaloo skies through state-of-the-art telescopes, whilst being captivated by ancient tales that have shaped understanding of the cosmos. Together, we celebrate the wonders of the universe, bridging past and present, science and culture in a truly magical evening.

Ethan Cooyou, Traditional Owner and Cultural Knowledge Holder Baiyungu Dreaming Manager, Ethan Cooyou is a Cultural Knowledge Holder and Traditional Custodian of the Nyinggulu (Ningaloo Coast). Ethan has worked as Baiyungu Ranger for over 13 years on the UNESCO Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area. Ethan is qualified in Conservation and Ecosystem Management and has many years of experience caring for the Nyinggulu (Ningaloo) Reef, Warnangurra (Cape Range) and associated karst systems. He has provided advice to numerous conservation initiatives including the Nyinggulu Coast Coastal Reserves Joint Management Plan and Resilient Reef Strategy. Ethan has also featured in the NITV and SBS Indigenous Ranger Program sharing the importance of Traditional Custodians working on County. Working as a Ranger enabled Ethan to return ‘home’ and reconnect him with his land and culture. Ethan now shares his knowledge and experience to mentor other Baiyungu people employed as Rangers to work on Country. Ethan helps facilitate numerous archaeological investigations and cultural heritage survey work in Nyinggulu. He is familiar with the numerous sites and artefacts, some that are unique to the Ningaloo Coast. He takes pride in sharing stories and knowledge of Baiyungu people and helping others understand the importance of cultural protocols when working on cultural heritage sites.

Paul Woods is a visionary and passionate amateur astronomer based in Exmouth, Western Australia. With over three decades of engineering experience, Paul combines a robust technical background with a deep love for the cosmos. As the former CEO of Gingin Observatory, Paul spearheaded innovative initiatives to engage the community with the wonders of the night sky. His pioneering work in developing First Nations stargazing nights not only enriched cultural appreciation but also established vital educational pathways for both mainstream and homeschooled children.

A Fellow of the Institute of Engineers, Engineers Australia, Paul has devoted much of his adult life to astronomy, sharing his knowledge and passion with others. When he’s not guiding stargazers through the mysteries of the universe, he cherishes time with his four children and five grandchildren. In his rare moments of leisure, Paul enjoys hiking and venturing to the remote landscapes of Gascoyne, telescope in tow, to explore the breathtaking night skies of Western Australia.