A springboard to the southern Great Barrier Reef, Bundaberg is more than just the birthplace of award-winning rum. It’s home to the eastern seaboard’s largest turtle maternity ward and, this October and November it’s all about the Milbi Festival.
Milbi, meaning turtle in traditional language, pays homage to the rich First Nations culture of the region. The festival is held over ten days, with immersive experiences that showcase the best of Bundaberg’s art, culture, and natural wonders.
Justyne Wilson from Bundaberg Council highlights the festival as a unique opportunity for Bundy’s four traditional owner groups – Taribelang Bunda, Gooreng Gooreng, Gurang, and Bailai Peoples – to come together and for the public to celebrate Bundy.
The Milbi Festival is not just about cultural festivities; it’s a celebration of nature’s marvels and the start of turtle season in Bundy. Visitors can embark on a turtle encounter at the Mon Repos Turtle Centre. You can also tour through Monsoon Aquatics coral farm with founder Daniel Kimberley. Monsoon Aquatics is groundbreaking in its coral propagation and spawning and offers visitors a glimpse into the vibrant world hidden beneath the ocean’s surface.
Bundaberg’s Milbi Festival is set to captivate you from October 27th to November 5th. Check out the full program of events and plan your journey into the heart of Bundaberg’s cultural and natural treasures.
