Tucked away at the foot of Mount Beerwah, originally known as “Mother Mountain” to the indigenous people of the area, lies a serene haven on 16 acres of natural bushland. This sacred ground is home to the Nungeena Aboriginal Corporation for Women’s Business, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to healing, empowerment, and cultural preservation for Aboriginal women.
For 32 years, Nungeena has stood as a sanctuary—a place where women can reconnect with their spiritual roots, reclaim their cultural heritage, and rebuild their lives with pride. Its site manager, Hazelle Mace, shares a deep connection to both the land and the mission of Nungeena, a legacy initiated in 1992 by her mother, respected Bribie Island elder Minnie Mace, alongside Aunty Eva Smith and Aunty Bubby Smith. Today, Minnie is the sole surviving founder, carrying on the vision of her late co-founders.
A Sacred Past
In Aboriginal mythology, Nungeena is the grandmother spirit, said to dwell within a hidden waterfall among fertile valleys. She is credited with creating the most beautiful birds, a legacy echoed in the lush surroundings of the property. The land itself has long been revered. For generations, it served as a birthing ground for Aboriginal women—a sacred place with mineral-rich waters that replenished the women after childbirth.
The Aboriginal name for Mount Beerwah, Benewah, means “high up over all,” a reference to its significance in the Dreaming. Here, Baiame, the Aboriginal Creator God, resides with his two wives Birrangulu and Ganhanbili. Viewed from the side, the mountain resembles a pregnant woman lying on her back—a visual guide for Aboriginal tribes seeking the sacred birthing site.
A Rich Heritage
The region also carries the history of the Nalbo tribe, a small community known as the “rainforest people.” They thrived in the Glasshouse Mountains, sustained by abundant wildlife, bush foods, and the nearby Stanley River. The last full-blooded Nalbo man, Richard “Dickie” Nalbo, was taken from the area in the early 1900s to Barambah Mission, now known as Cherbourg.
Today, Nungeena honours this history, preserving bush tucker gardens filled with over 20 species of edible and medicinal plants, including native plums and other treasures from the land.
A Vision for the Future
As a charitable organisation, Nungeena relies on donations, grants, and volunteers to maintain its vital work. Hazelle and her partner Jason dedicate two days a week to nurturing the grounds, alongside a small team of women who tend the gardens and maintain the facilities.
The organisation has ambitious plans to expand its offerings. Future developments include short-term stays for women in crisis, women’s events, retreats, and an educational bush tucker garden trail. Volunteers—whether landscapers, gardeners, carpenters, or general helpers—are always welcome. Contributions, like shipping containers, tiny homes, or financial support, are vital to these efforts.
In 2025, Nungeena will host a range of workshops and retreats. The site is also available for hire for alcohol- and drug-free events. Hazelle envisions a women’s healing conference that brings together strong Aboriginal voices and prominent Sunshine Coast women to share knowledge and resources.
Join the Journey
To support Nungeena or learn more about upcoming events, connect at facebook.com/Nungeena or email hazelle@nungeena.org.au. Your contributions—whether through time, resources, or donations—help preserve this sacred space and its mission to empower and heal Aboriginal women.
Nungeena is calling. Will you answer?
