Welcome to ngurrak barring. This trail invites you to explore the deep cultural and creative history of goranwarrabil (the Dandenong Ranges) through five key themes: Ways of Seeing, Community, Activism, Resilience, and Country. 

The Dandenong Ranges have been home to the Wurundjeri woiwurrung people for tens of thousands of years. Despite being removed from their traditional lands and forced to make new homes elsewhere, including, for many, at Coranderrk Aboriginal Reserve in Healesville, the Wurundjeri connection to Country remains strong. The arrival of European settlers saw the establishment of new communities. Families and individuals came to the Dandenong Ranges to embark upon new lives. Holiday makers sought refuge from the bustle of the city in the cool green gullies, and creative people found inspiration among the hills. Guest houses and communal residences provided places for these groups to thrive, and many short-term visitors became long-term residents.  

Places like Arthur Streeton’s Longacres, Garry Robert’s Sunnyside, and Mary (Polly) and John Farmer’s Miyako became artistic hubs that were beloved by artists and creatives during the first half of the twentieth century. The reputation of the Dandenong Ranges as a place for artistic inspiration where creative communities flourish grew from this. Throughout the years, this sense of place, comradery and community has endured. Burrinja Cultural Centre continues in this tradition. As a vibrant hub of creative activity in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges, Burrinja’s focus is on building community through the arts for the many different kinds of people who visit temporarily or who call the Dandenong Ranges home.  

Community trails run between Olinda and Sassafras.

Whenever you’re visiting our national parks and state forests, please always check changes to trail conditions, and weather warnings, before beginning your walk. Be sure to take enough water, and wear suitable clothing for the conditions.