[3] Aboriginal people of the Dharawal language group are the original inhabitants and traditional custodians of the area now known as Minnamurra and its surroundings.

The sandstone canyon in which the centre is located enables visitors to experience the various types of rainforest and examine the diversity of ferns species.

Visitors can see first hand the fauna of the area such as lyrebirds, Australian Water Dragons and a host of bird species which make Minnamurra and Australia their home.

In 1818, a tragic event known as the Minnamurra River massacre occurred, where approximately six Wodiwodi people were killed in a clash with colonial settlers.

The area continues to honor its Indigenous heritage and natural beauty, making it a significant part of the Illawarra region's history and culture.