Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is Ancient Journeys?
    Ancient Journeys is an Aboriginal-owned gallery and gift shop in Cairns, Queensland, offering a curated selection of Indigenous artworks, homewares, and gifts. We focus on supporting ethical and authentic Indigenous art, with worldwide shipping available.
  2. Who owns Ancient Journeys?
    Ancient Journeys is 100% Indigenous-owned and operated by the Gulf Regional Economic Aboriginal Trust (GREAT), which supports Aboriginal artists and economic development in the Lower Gulf of Carpentaria.
  3. Are your products authentic?
    Yes, we are a member of the Indigenous Art Code, ensuring that all our artworks are authentic and ethically sourced, supporting Indigenous artists and their communities.
  4. Are your products Australian-made?
    Most of our products are handmade by Aboriginal artists across Australia. When we stock Indigenous designs that have been manufactured, we prioritise Australian-made items wherever possible—after all, who wants a genuine Australian Aboriginal item if it’s made overseas? This focus ensures authenticity and makes our products perfect for gift-giving to friends and family overseas.
  5. Where does your art come from?
    Our art comes directly from Aboriginal artists and Indigenous-owned art centres across Australia. We work closely with artists from remote communities to ensure they are fairly paid and that their cultural heritage is respected. Our paintings come from artists living in the Gulf of Carpentaria, including Normanton, Doomadgee, and Mornington Island.
  6. Where are you located?
    We are in the Cairns Art Precinct, in one of the shops at the front of the Mantra Hotel on the Esplanade in Cairns, Queensland. The precinct is a cultural hub featuring galleries, museums, and performance spaces, making it a great destination for exploring Aboriginal art and culture.
  7. Where do the profits go?
    Profits from Ancient Journeys support Aboriginal artists and go towards community-led projects in the Lower Gulf of Carpentaria through the Gulf Regional Economic Aboriginal Trust (GREAT).
  8. Do you offer worldwide shipping?
    Yes, we ship worldwide. Delivery times are typically 3–6 business days within Australia and 10–14 business days for international orders.
  9. How do you handle shipping and delivery?
    We use Australia Post for most deliveries, with express postage also available. Oversized items require a third-party freight service, and payment for these must be arranged directly with us.

    • Paintings are shipped rolled in a tube, but stretched or framed shipping can be arranged for an additional cost.
    • Shipping insurance is not included but can be added for an extra fee.
  10. Why won’t my item process through the shopping cart?
    If your item won’t process, it may be oversized and cannot be sent via Australia Post. It could also be out of stock or due to a website error. Please contact us directly to organise payment and freight for oversized items or for any other order issues.
  11. Can I purchase items in bulk or more than what is listed online?
    Many of our items are available in larger quantities than shown online. Please contact us to check availability for bulk orders.
  12. Do you offer gift wrapping?
    Yes, we offer gift wrapping with a selection of Australian-made wrapping paper for a small fee. You can select this option at checkout, and we will wrap the gift for you.
  13. What is your return policy?
    • Change of mind: Returns are accepted if posted back within 5 days, with the item in original, unused condition. The customer is responsible for return shipping costs.
    • Faulty or damaged items: Contact us within 5 working days, and we will assist with a repair, replacement, or refund.
  14. How can I contact you?
    You can reach us at shop@ancientjourneys.com.au or call +61 7 4033 0228. Visit us at 53-57 Esplanade (Mantra Complex), Cairns, QLD 4870, Australia or use our Contact Page.