Seventeen Seventy — often shortened to 1770 by locals — isn’t just another coastal town with postcard-perfect views. It’s a place steeped in Aboriginal history, woven with thousands of years of culture, storytelling, and connection to Country. Long before Lieutenant James Cook and the crew of the Endeavour sailed into Bustard Bay in May 1770, this stretch of Queensland’s Coral Coast was home to the Gooreng Gooreng people. Their cultural ties to the land, waters, and wildlife remain deeply significant, and today, visitors have the opportunity to reflect on this ancient connection while exploring the area’s beaches, headlands, and national parks.
For families and travellers looking to explore the region’s Aboriginal heritage in comfort, 1770 Beach Accommodation provides the perfect base. With a wide range of holiday homes — from spacious family stays to cosy retreats — you’ll have the freedom to explore the rich history of the region while enjoying the laid-back coastal lifestyle that Seventeen Seventy is famous for.
Gooreng Gooreng People and Connection to Country
The traditional custodians of the Seventeen Seventy and Agnes Water region are the Gooreng Gooreng people. For thousands of years, they lived in harmony with the land, drawing on the abundant marine life, bush tucker, and natural resources of the area.
Bustard Bay, Eurimbula Creek, and Round Hill Headland were — and still are — significant cultural landscapes. Fishing, hunting, and gathering took place here, and families would pass on knowledge through Dreaming stories, songlines, and ceremonial practices. These traditions not only provided food and shelter but also maintained a spiritual connection to Country that continues to this day.
When you walk along the beaches or hike the national park trails around Seventeen Seventy, you’re literally following in the footsteps of the Gooreng Gooreng ancestors. Their presence is felt in the coastal winds, the shifting sands, and the wildlife that thrives in the area.
First Encounters in Bustard Bay
Seventeen Seventy is best known as the second Australian landing site of Captain James Cook and the first in Queensland. In May 1770, Cook and his crew came ashore in Bustard Bay, naming the area after the bustard bird they hunted and ate. But what’s often overlooked is how this moment marked one of the earliest points of contact between Aboriginal people and Europeans along the Queensland coast.
The Gooreng Gooreng people observed Cook’s landing, and oral histories describe the tension and caution during those first encounters. These moments were the beginning of massive change, as European arrival would gradually reshape the cultural landscape of Aboriginal communities across Queensland and Australia as a whole.
Today, visitors to Seventeen Seventy can walk the same foreshore where those first interactions took place. Interpretive signs, guided tours, and cultural experiences provide valuable insight into how Aboriginal people viewed the arrival of Cook and how their own traditions continue despite the impacts of colonisation.
National Parks and Cultural Landscapes
Seventeen Seventy is surrounded by natural beauty, much of which carries cultural significance for Aboriginal communities. Exploring these areas offers a chance to connect with both history and the environment.
Eurimbula National Park
Eurimbula National Park stretches across coastal headlands, mangroves, and tidal wetlands. For the Gooreng Gooreng people, this landscape was a source of food and materials. Today, you can bushwalk through tracks lined with eucalypts, picnic by the water, and reflect on the fact that these same paths were used by Aboriginal families for generations.
Deepwater National Park
Further south, Deepwater National Park features pristine beaches and protected ecosystems. Aboriginal communities traditionally fished and gathered here, and the park remains an important conservation site for marine turtles and birdlife. Respecting the land when you visit — by sticking to walking tracks and following conservation guidelines — is a way of honouring that long history of care for Country.
Bustard Head and Lighthouse
Bustard Head, with its historic lighthouse, overlooks an area of deep cultural importance. From high on the headland, the Gooreng Gooreng people would have kept watch over the coastline, following seasonal shifts in weather and wildlife. It’s also where Cook’s crew first noted Aboriginal smoke signals, an enduring reminder of the communities already thriving here long before European arrival.
Cultural Experiences for Visitors
Travellers today have the chance to learn more about Aboriginal culture in Seventeen Seventy and Agnes Water through local tours and experiences. These opportunities allow families to gain a deeper appreciation for the stories and traditions that continue to shape the region.
- Guided Cultural Walks: Some tours are led by Aboriginal guides who share Dreaming stories, bush tucker knowledge, and insights into traditional land management.
- Art and Storytelling: Local galleries and community centres often showcase Aboriginal art that reflects the connection to land and sea.
- Visitor Centres: The Agnes Water Museum and local information centres often include exhibits that highlight Aboriginal history alongside European exploration.
Including one of these cultural activities in your holiday isn’t just educational — it’s also a way of respecting and supporting the living culture of the Gooreng Gooreng people.
Staying in Seventeen Seventy
After a day of exploring Aboriginal heritage sites, walking coastal tracks, and soaking up the sea air, having a comfortable place to stay is essential. That’s where 1770 Beach Accommodation comes in.
Here’s why they’re the best in the business:
- Range of Options: From beachfront villas to spacious family homes, there’s something for every group size and budget.
- Family-Friendly: Large kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and living areas make travelling with kids a breeze.
- Pet-Friendly Choices: For those who want to bring their furry mates along, there are secure and welcoming homes available.
- Local Knowledge: The team behind 1770 Beach Accommodation knows the area inside and out, offering advice on cultural sites, beaches, and activities.
- Trusted Service: Their reputation is built on years of helping families and travellers enjoy stress-free holidays in Seventeen Seventy.
When exploring Aboriginal history in 1770, staying locally through 1770 Beach Accommodation ensures you’re close to the action, with a base that’s both comfortable and authentic.
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Go: The cooler months from April to October are ideal for exploring, with mild weather and plenty of opportunities for bushwalking and cultural tours.
Getting Around: A car is recommended, as national parks and cultural sites are spread out across the region.
Respect the Land: Always follow park rules, stick to marked tracks, and respect conservation zones, particularly during turtle nesting season.
Visitor Information: Drop by the Agnes Water and Town of 1770 Visitor Information Centre for maps, advice, and cultural insights.
A Reflection on Time and Place
Seventeen Seventy is more than just a holiday destination. It’s a place where thousands of years of Aboriginal history meet the stories of early European exploration. For the Gooreng Gooreng people, this land and sea remain a vital part of their cultural identity. For visitors, it’s an opportunity to learn, reflect, and appreciate the depth of history that shapes the region today.
Staying with 1770 Beach Accommodation allows you to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of Seventeen Seventy while knowing you’re in good hands. From comfortable holiday homes to expert local advice, they’re unmatched in creating the perfect base for families, history buffs, and curious travellers alike.
Final Thoughts
Exploring the Aboriginal history of Seventeen Seventy is an unforgettable experience. From walking the shores of Bustard Bay where Cook’s crew came ashore, to learning the Dreaming stories of the Gooreng Gooreng people, this region offers a unique chance to connect with both the past and the present.
And when the day’s done, you’ll want somewhere comfortable to relax, reflect, and recharge. That’s exactly what 1770 Beach Accommodation provides — a trusted, family-friendly option that’s simply the best in the industry.
So pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready to explore a corner of Queensland where culture, history, and coastal beauty come together in unforgettable ways.
