June 2024

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Kurriyala (generic snake, also rainbow serpent)

Kurriyala is the big name for a number of different snakes that live on Kuku Yalanji country. It is also used to refer to the rainbow serpent, the most culturally significant totem or creator being for the Kuku Yalanji clan groups. In this art work the snake figure represents the rainbow serpent: Kurriyala created our land.  Before he arrived here the land was flat but as he moved about in a snake-like manner the mountains, valleys and rivers were formed. The large rounded rocks in some of our rivers represent his eggs, making bathing in these places forbidden. Kurriyala lives in the rock pools of certain rivers and has the power to heal us.

By CompNet Systems, ago

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Yawu (Stingray)

In the past stingrays were an important food source for our Kuku Yalanji people. We used to hunt them using a spear and cook them over the hot coals of an open fire. We call stingray ‘Yawu’. When stingrays make a mark in the sand, that is where the crabs hide into. 

By CompNet Systems, ago

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Kudi (Barramundi)

Kudi (Barramundi) is of great cultural importance for our Kuku Yalanji families. It is a major food source for us. We hunt them when they are fat. Kudi (Barramundi) is also one of a group of totem names that our elders give to a newborn child of the younger generation. A child who receives, for example,  Kudi (Barramundi), as a totem name will be protected by the barramundi’s spirit their entire life.

By CompNet Systems, ago

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Kurranji (Cassowary)

Long time ago, the cassowary was a precious food source for our ancestors. They ate the meat and the eggs, used the feathers for ceremonies and weaving, and the skins for blankets.  The Cassowary is a powerful Totem for us because it helps growing many plants that were important for food, medicine and tool making. The Cassowary can walk wide distances and spread the seeds of the fruits he eats everywhere. Plants grow also out of his dung.

By CompNet Systems, ago