What is Ancient Journeys?
Ancient Journeys is an Aboriginal-owned gallery and gift shop in Cairns, Queensland. We are a social enterprise operated by the Gulf Regional Economic Aboriginal Trust (GREAT). We specialise in authentic Indigenous art, handmade gifts, and ethically produced products representing Aboriginal culture, stories, and traditions.

Our collection includes paintings, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, carvings, and homewares — all supporting First Nations artists. We are committed to artist royalties, ethical sourcing, sustainable practices, and worldwide shipping.

Are your products authentic?
Yes. Every purchase supports Indigenous artists and culture.
Ancient Journeys is a Dealer Member of the Indigenous Art Code, ensuring:

• Fair payment for artists

• Cultural integrity is respected

• Authenticity is protected

Are your products Australian-made?
95% of our range is handmade in Australia by Aboriginal artists or manufactured in Australia under licensed agreements. For the few items made overseas, this will be clearly stated and royalties are still paid to the artist.

Environmental care matters to us — recycled or reused packaging is used wherever possible to reduce waste.

Where does your art come from?
We proudly showcase:

• Original paintings from the Lower Gulf of Carpentaria (Normanton, Doomadgee, Mornington Island)

• Handcrafted pieces from Aboriginal Art Centres and independent First Nations artists across Australia, mainly from the Top End around North Queensland and the Northern Territory

Unique artworks are one-of-a-kind — once sold, they cannot be replaced.

Which products come with Certificates of Authenticity (COA)?

• All original artworks from the Gulf region include a COA created in Community by Ancient Journeys.

• Higher-value artworks purchased from Art Centres include their own COA.

• Items such as small carvings, ceramics, jewellery, and ornaments may come with artist swing tags or information cards instead of a COA.

If you’re unsure whether a specific item includes a COA, simply ask — we’re happy to help.

Can I buy more than what is shown online?
Often yes.

• Our website generally shows one of each item, but manufactured product lines usually have additional stock available.

• Bulk and corporate orders can be arranged.

• We can often source more items by the same artist.

Feel free to contact us if you’re looking for more options.

Do you offer corporate or custom orders?
Yes — we can assist with gifts for conferences, awards, and events. Let us know your needs, and we’ll be happy to help.

Do you offer gift wrapping?
Yes. Indigenous gift wrapping paper is available. Please note at checkout which items should be wrapped and your preferred paper. If your billing and delivery addresses differ, we usually assume it’s a gift and exclude price information.

What is your return policy?
We comply with Australian Consumer Law.

• Faulty, damaged, or incorrect items — please contact us within 5 days so we can assist with a repair, replacement, or refund (detailed in our Terms & Conditions).

• Change-of-mind returns are accepted within 5 days, but return shipping with tracking is the customer’s responsibility (detailed in our Terms & Conditions).

• Artworks are unique, so replacements may not always be possible.

How do you ship orders?

• Orders are dispatched within 1–2 business days (we are closed weekends and public holidays).

• We use Australia Post wherever possible. Australia Post forwards the tracking number to a mobile number for domestic orders. For international orders, if a mobile number is provided, you should receive notifications once your parcel enters your country.

• Oversized artworks and heavy items won’t process through our shopping cart as they are too large for Australia Post. These require separate freight arrangements — please call us for a quote, and payment can be made over the phone.

• Insurance is available on request and charged separately if required.

Can I pick up my order in-store?
Yes — we’re happy for you to collect your order at Ancient Journeys.

• Please add a note at checkout if you’d like to pick up your items.

• Postage costs will be refunded if you choose in-store pickup.

• Pickup is available Monday–Friday, 9 am–5 pm (closed public holidays).

Do you ship internationally?
Yes. Shipping times vary by carrier and location. International customers are responsible for customs duties, taxes, and import restrictions in their country.

• GST is automatically removed at checkout for orders sent outside Australia.

• Currency conversion and any bank fees may apply.

• Orders shipped to the USA include a 10% surcharge to cover new tariffs.

Why won’t my item process through the cart?
This may happen if:

• It is oversized and requires special freight

• It has sold in-store (we may have more)

• A temporary website issue occurs

Simply contact us — we’re happy to help.

Who owns Ancient Journeys?
Ancient Journeys is 100% Aboriginal-owned and operated by the Gulf Regional Economic Aboriginal Trust (GREAT), supporting artists and economic development in the Lower Gulf.

Where do the profits go?
Every purchase supports First Nations artists and contributes to community-led programs in the Gulf region.

Where are you located?
Ancient Journeys
Mantra Esplanade Hotel Complex
53–57 Esplanade, Cairns QLD 4870, Australia

How can I contact you?
+61 7 4033 0228
shop@ancientjourneys.com.au

We are always happy to assist over the phone during opening hours — including placing orders or arranging specialised shipping.

We are open                   Monday - Friday 9am -5pm (Closed Public Holidays)