The Mandingalbay Yidinji people are the Traditional Owners of both land and sea Country and have been living on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef amongst the Wet Tropics World Heritage rainforest for thousands of years. The Mandingalbay Yidinji People were recognised as the native title holders and custodians of their land by the Federal Court of Australia in 2006. In late 2021 MYAC officially launched the Mandingalbay Authentic Indigenous Tours (MAIT), and their tours and events provide visitors to Cairns and Tropical North Queensland with the chance to explore their country and experience authentic Aboriginal Culture.
Mandingalbay Yidinji Cultural Guides cover topics of cultural significance, and lead interpretative walks, showcasing traditional use of natural resources used for medicinal purposes and sustenance, artefacts, and shelter. MAIT Tourism products include the Hands-on Country Cultural Tour, Deadly After Dark Sunset Cruises, Deadly Dinner events and overnight camping.
Mandingalbay Authentic Indigenous Tours is 100% Indigenous owned and operated on its traditional country. MYAC strongly believes non-indigenous tourism operators delivering experiences on first nation people’s country should ensure they acknowledge, recognise, and pay respect to the traditional custodians of the land where they deliver their tourism products. This is achieved and strengthened through building relationships and partnerships with First Nations people and supports reconciliation.