A collaboration between two local operators has resulted in a new First Nations tourism experience for women following support from a City of Newcastle business mentoring program. The initiative, Moon Woman Gathering on Water (Gilayn Galbaan Yalawanyi Bathuga), held its inaugural event on Friday, 17 April 2026.

The two-hour full moon cruise on the Hunter River at Carrington focuses on cultural teaching and reflection. The product was developed through the 2025/26 Product Mentoring Development Program, which pairs emerging operators with established local businesses to create bookable tourism experiences.

Warrimay Nyuragil woman and cultural knowledge holder, Aunty Theresa Dargin was selected for the program to develop the offering alongside Natalie Kelly from Nova Cruises. Aunty Theresa said the program provided a platform to share cultural stories respectfully while creating a deeper connection to Newcastle.

“As a lore woman, it is important to me that these experiences create opportunities for connection to place and story,” Aunty Theresa said.

“I am grateful to be working with the team to develop meaningful visitor experiences that honour Country and culture. I am also thankful for the openness and collaboration of Nova Cruises in bringing this initiative forward.”

The program includes workshops, mentoring from previous participants and six months of ongoing business support. Executive Manager of Media, Engagement, Economy and Corporate Affairs at City of Newcastle, Nick Kaiser said the goal is to increase the diversity of tourism products available in the city.

“We want to increase the appeal of Newcastle as a destination by adding to the number of available products,” Nick said.

“The program helps local businesses develop and promote experiences that are ready for the visitor market.”

Nova Cruises previously participated in the mentoring program and provided the vessel and operational expertise for the new venture. Natalie said the collaboration initially began as a way to help Aunty Theresa’s organisation, Spiritual Waterways, offer on-water experiences to schools before evolving into a public tourism product.

“We discussed creating a tourism product for Newcastle and Moon Woman Gathering on Water was the result,” Natalie said.

“We are proud to be part of this bespoke Indigenous tourism offering.”

Applications for the next intake of the Product Development Mentoring Program are scheduled to open later this year. The initiative continues to focus on expanding Newcastle’s experience economy by fostering partnerships between traditional knowledge holders and local service providers.

IMAGE | City of Newcastle program facilitates new Indigenous tourism experience