History & Heritage

For over 60,000 years, Parramatta has been home to the Baramadagal and other Dharug peoples, who have cared for the land, waters, and wildlife. This area, especially along the Parramatta River, has long been a meeting place for the Dharug, and the name Parramatta comes from the Dharug word Baramada/Burramatta, meaning ‘place where the eels lie down.’

Parramatta remains a vital cultural hub, where First Nations peoples continue to shape the city’s ecological, cultural, and social landscape.

Join us on First Nations tours and activities to explore the traditions, history, and sustainable practices of the Dharug and local communities. Through storytelling, art, and guided experiences, connect to the timeless spirit of this land.