Dalabon Aboriginal Cultural Experience: Katherine
Introducing Manuel Pamkal, owner of Dalabon Aboriginal Cultural Experience based in Katherine in the Northern Territory of Australia. Manuel Pamkal is the Northern Territory’s preeminent Aboriginal Tour Guide and live performer. Specialising in live didjeridoo playing, storytelling and audience engagement, Manuel Pamkal’s ability to connect through culture is second to none.
After 30 years of working in the tourism and arts industries, Manuel Pamkal has founded his own Aboriginal-owned and operated business, with a goal of sharing authentic Aboriginal cultural experiences with the world, whilst providing for his family, and teaching them the ways of providing in the 21st Century.
In the old days, the role of the male was to provide meat, and look after his family. In the old days, that meant working with his family to hunt and fish for food. In the modern days, it’s a bit more complex! With families now craving the comforts and luxuries of modern day living, learning the ways of business has become more important.
Dalabon Aboriginal Cultural Experiences is named after the Indigenous Australian Dalabon language from Central Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory. Dalabon Aboriginal Cultural Experience is devoted to sharing the richness of Aboriginal culture through unique, immersive experiences. Join us to explore the stories, traditions, and spirit of one of the world’s oldest living cultures.
Manuel Pamkal warmly welcomes you to explore the rich tapestry of Aboriginal culture in Katherine.
With a range of immersive experiences,
Dalabon Aboriginal Cultural Experiences offers:
3 hour Cultural Experience including didj playing, storytelling, painting, spear throwing and fire lighting,
Private one-day and overnight tours,
Corporate and school training,
Family-style bush tucker experiences: Pamkal Family Cookups
Family-style fishing trips (drive your own vehicle)
Pandanus weaving workshops with women (not Manuel Pamkal)
Manuel’s Journey:
Sharing Culture and Language
Born at Banatjarl near King River, Manuel Pamkal’s life is a story of resilience. Manuel learnt English by teaching his own Dalabon language to university lecturers in a language exchange.
Guided by his father at 15, he learned raarrk painting techniques and the stories of the Dreamtime, skills and tales he now passes on to younger generations. As an experienced Aboriginal cultural guide, Manuel Pamkal is the preeminent Aboriginal cultural tour guide, providing insight, humour and openness in his interactions with guests.
With years of painting experience, Manuel’s works—on bark, canvas, and didgeridoos—have garnered international acclaim. Manuel Pamkal has won regional art prizes, including at the Barunga Festival, and received honors such as an entry in the Telstra National ATSI Art Award. His work has been showcased globally, from Australian galleries to a cultural workshop in Japan.
As a senior Aboriginal Dalabon tour guide and community leader, Manuel Pamkal has dedicated his life to sharing Australian Indigenous culture.
His storytelling, art, and tours have earned multiple Brolga Tourism Awards and recognition from Tourism NT for his outstanding interpretive skills.
Whether teaching painting techniques or weaving stories of the past, Manuel is a living bridge between generations, ensuring his culture thrives for years to come.
Manuel is excited to share his culture, traditions, and local knowledge with you, creating a truly unforgettable experience for you.