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Big Rain

The significance of kapi (water, rain) in Martu culture is deeply rooted in the historical pujiman (traditional, dersert dwelling) lifestyle. During this era, the knowledge of water sources was critical for survival, and today Martu Country is still defined in terms of the location and type of water. Each of the hundreds of claypans, rockholes, waterholes, soaks and springs found in the Martu desert homelands is known through real life experience and the recounting of Jukurrpa (Dreaming) narratives by name, location, quality and seasonal availability. This encyclopedic knowledge extends even to the nature and movement of arterial waterways, and sustained Martu as they travelled across their Country, hunting and gathering, visiting family, and fulfilling ceremonial obligations. In addition to this knowledge, Martu believed, and continue to believe, they could make rainfall occur by force of will enacted through cultural ceremonies including dancing and singing. This practice typifies one of many forms of cultural maintenance, whereby the wellbeing of one’s ngurra (home Country, camp) is ensured.