Gumaraa is an Aboriginal cultural education and experiences company based on Dharawal Country in the Illawarra region of NSW. We deliver authentic programs grounded in the traditions of the Dharawal and Yuin Nations, offering school programs, public tours and workshops, cultural mentoring for Indigenous Australians, and a range of corporate services including Welcome to Country, Smoking Ceremonies, cultural awareness training and workplace workshops. We also provide Aboriginal art and custom apparel design. Our aim is to empower, preserve and share culture, support cultural healing, and strengthen community understanding through immersive, on-Country learning experiences.
Who We Are
Gumaraa is an Aboriginal owned cultural education and experience company based on Dharawal Country on the South Coast of NSW. Our name means “wise old man,” reflecting the knowledge, stories and teachings passed down through our Elders. We deliver authentic cultural learning through school programs, tours, workshops, mentoring, corporate services, and Aboriginal art and design – all grounded in the traditions of the Dharawal and Yuin Nations.
Our Mission
Our mission is to honour, preserve and teach the stories, traditions and values of the Dharawal and Yuin peoples. We aim to create opportunities for cultural learning that empower communities, strengthen identity, and deepen understanding between Aboriginal and non Aboriginal people. Through education, creative expression and on Country experiences, we work to keep culture strong for future generations.
Our Vision
We envision a future where Aboriginal culture is valued, understood and embedded across schools, workplaces and communities. A future where cultural learning strengthens wellbeing, identity and connection – and where Indigenous tourism, art and education continue to grow in meaningful ways. As custodians of one of the world’s oldest living cultures, we are committed to ensuring these stories and teachings are carried forward for another 40,000 years.
Our Story
Gumaraa began with a simple vision: to share culture in a way that is authentic, accessible and connected to Country. What started as community workshops has grown into a wide ranging cultural education organisation offering school programs, immersive cultural tours, corporate cultural awareness and ceremonial services, and a dedicated mentoring program supporting Aboriginal people to reconnect with identity and tradition.
Our Founder, Richard Campbell, brings decades of cultural knowledge, youth work experience, and artistic storytelling to the heart of our work. Through dance, art, language, mentoring and ceremony, he and the Gumaraa team help people understand the land they live on, learn from ancient knowledge systems, and build stronger, more respectful relationships with First Nations culture.
Meet Our Cultural Practitioners
Meet Our Cultural Practitioners
Richard Campbell
Director | Cultural Practitioner
Richard Campbell
I was born in Kiama NSW, from Yuin Nation South Coast Australia. My Fathers Totem is Umbarra, meaning ‘black duck’ and my Mother’s Totem is Guunyuu, meaning ‘black swan’. I bring cultural teaching to my community through dance, art and knowledge from my (Gumaraa) ancestors and have represented my country and people in hundreds of cultural ceremonies. I am passionate about delivering knowledge passed down by my Elders in a culturally safe environment delivered with the true spirit of the land. Qualified in youth work, I develop a strong rapport with participants and aim to become a positive role model and mentor to all.
I am also an Aboriginal artist and have been painting all my life. I paint ‘From My Dreaming from the Gadhu People’ and have had numerous exhibitions in Australia. You will see some of my work on this website and in our gallery.
Tallara Fittler
Mentor | Cultural Practitioner
Tallara Fittler
I was born and reside on Dharawal country. I am a proud Wodi Wodi woman, my people belonging to the Kiama area. My totems are the Humpback Whale and the Lyrebird.
I feel most free, at peace, and connected to my ancestors when I am dancing on my home country. Being able to follow in the footsteps of so many generations before me brings me so much pride.
Working for Gumaraa, passing down cultural knowledge appropriately and respectfully to our younger generations is something I am extremely passionate about. Creating opportunities for those who may be disconnected to reconnect, and seeing the pride and empowerment that comes with it is so rewarding.
I’m thankful for the knowledge and opportunity that Uncle Richard has provided me, to be able to share our strong, beautiful culture with both mob and the wider community.
Jessey Campbell
Cultural Practitioner
Jessey Campbell
My name is Jessey Campbell, and I am a proud Yuin woman from the far south coast of NSW. My cultural heritage runs deep, and I take great pride in my identity and the stories that shape my people. A significant part of my identity is my totem, Umbarra, which is the Black Duck.
I have been learning about my culture from a young age. These teachings have not only enriched my understanding of who I am but have also instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to honour and preserve our heritage for future generations.
One of my most cherished experiences has been participating in cultural dance. I began dancing at age five, and it has since become a fundamental aspect of my life. Through dance, I express the stories of my people, sharing our history, spirituality, and connection to the land. Each movement carries the weight of tradition, and performing allows me to celebrate my identity while educating others about the beauty culture.
As I continue to learn and grow, I remain committed to sharing my culture with others and ensuring that our stories, dances, and traditions are passed down through the generations. Being a Yuin woman is not just about personal pride; it’s about being a custodian of our rich cultural legacy.
Sam
Cultural Practitioner
Meet Sam
I am a proud Kamilaroi/Gamilaroi/Gamilaraay man. I was born in Dubbo and I grew up in Walgett on Gamilaroi country before moving to the Wollongong/Shellharbour area.
I am currently working with Gumaraa Aboriginal Experience and living on Dharawal country, home of the Wodi Wodi people.
I am honoured to be able to come on Dharawal country and pass down the knowledge from Uncle Richard to the younger generation.
Kieran
Cultural Practitioner
Meet Keiran
My name is Keiran Campbell. I’m a proud Djiringanj man from the far south coast of NSW, with deep roots stretching along the coastline.
I carry my culture with me in everything I do, sharing it through storytelling, movement, art and time spent on Country. It shapes who I am and guides the way I connect with others.
Being part of Gumaraa has strengthened my understanding of culture, not just my own but also the diverse traditions of the people I work alongside. I value the opportunity to pass on what I’ve learned and to create meaningful cultural experiences for those who come to learn.
Casey
Cultural Practitioner
Meet Casey
I pride myself on my culture and express this through my cultural teaching, dance, art & connecting to country.
Meet Our Office Team
Meet Our Office Team
Lisa Bazzano
Director | Secretary
Lisa Bazzano
My dedication to cultural preservation and reconciliation has left a lasting impact, shaping our company’s identity and mission. My commitment to fostering relationships with Indigenous communities and promoting their art, language, and traditions has earned me respect within both the Aboriginal and business communities.
Trinity Bazzano
Graphic Designer | Visual Brand Lead
Trinity Bazzano
I have been working as a graphic designer at Gumaraa since 2020. Although I am not Aboriginal myself, I collaborate closely with our Aboriginal artist to create digital artwork that honours Aboriginal culture. This partnership is not just about design—it’s an ongoing learning experience that deepens my understanding of culture, traditions, and history.
My role goes beyond creating visually compelling designs; it’s about building meaningful connections and learning from the artists’ cultural insights. Together, we merge traditional Aboriginal art with contemporary styles, ensuring that each piece tells a powerful story.
In addition to design, my marketing role helps bridge the gap between these creations and the wider audience. By sharing the stories behind the designs, I advocate for cultural appreciation and understanding. It’s a privilege to be part of a team that not only produces beautiful artwork but also fosters respect and understanding for Aboriginal culture.
Jasmine Bazzano
Head of Social Media & Marketing
Jasmine Bazzano
Hey, I’m Jasmine. While I’m not Aboriginal, I am passionate about promoting indigenous culture and supporting the community. At Gumaraa I take care of administrative and marketing duties to ensure smooth operations and effective marketing strategies. I find joy in forming connections within the Aboriginal community and contributing to the growth and success of the business.
In my marketing role, I am dedicated to authentically showcasing the rich cultural heritage and values of the indigenous community. My role is not just about selling products or services but also about respecting and preserving the heritage and traditions that define the essence of the business.
In my administrative role, I assist in ensuring the efficient and organised functioning of daily operations. By providing essential administrative support, I contribute to creating a positive and productive work environment that reflects the values and goals of the Aboriginal community.
Melanie
Creative Production Coordinator
Melanie
My name is Melanie, and I am a Creative Production Coordinator with Gumaraa Aboriginal Experience. I play a key role in managing and organising all of our stock for markets, events and programs, making sure everything is prepared, packed and ready to go.
I enjoy working behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly, from coordinating supplies to supporting the team during busy events. Being organised and hands-on allows me to help bring everything together on the day.
Working with Gumaraa has given me the opportunity to learn, listen, and grow my understanding of culture while contributing my skills in a respectful and supportive way. I feel grateful to be part of a team that shares knowledge and creates impactful experiences for the wider community.
Get in touch with us
Enquire below about any of our offerings and we will get back to you.
