The lands of the Bundjalung Nation stretch wide across north-east New South Wales into south-east Queensland — from Grafton in the south, across to Tenterfield in the west, and north to Beaudesert and Beenleigh. Bundjalung Country is not one single place, but a strong federation of many clans, each connected to their own part of Country. Here in Ballina, the clan is the Nyangbul people. Long before maps and borders, this place was known through story. Oral traditions tell that this area was first settled by the Three Brothers and their descendants. They came by sea, arriving at Goanna Headland — about 45 kilometres south of Ballina, just south of Evans Head — one of the most easterly points on mainland Australia. For thousands of years, Goanna Headland has been remembered as the mythological place of origin for the Bundjalung Nation. It is believed that Bundjalung people have lived on and visited this headland for at least 12,000 years. The Headland itself carries spirit. It is believed to be the body of Dirawong — the goanna spirit. From above, the outline of the headland reveals the shape of a goanna, and within that form the spirit being is understood to still exist. Dirawong is spoken of as one of the Creator Beings of the Bundjalung people — an unseen spiritual presence who protects, who guards, who battles the Rainbow Snake, and who helps the people. This is living story. Living Country. In 1985, sixteen hectares of the southern part of Goanna Headland became the first Aboriginal land grant in New South Wales. Today, the major part of the headland is protected as a reserve. Its purpose is to conserve Aboriginal culture and heritage, preserve native flora and fauna, and provide space for the wider community to respectfully visit and enjoy. The reserve is managed by the Dirawong Trust for the benefit of the broader community. Across Goanna Headland and within Broadwater National Park, north of Evans Head, there are a number of archaeological sites — quiet reminders of long and continuing connection to Country.