Kadanji (Black Cockatoo)
Kadanji (Black Cockatoo) is my mother’s mother’s totem from the Kuku Nyungkul clan. This totem is passed down generation after generation to your newborns.
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Kadanji (Black Cockatoo)
Kadanji (Black Cockatoo) is my mother’s mother’s totem from the Kuku Nyungkul clan. This totem is passed down generation after generation to your newborns.
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Jarruka (Scrubfowl)
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Kirbaji (Dugong)
In the past, Kirbaji (dugong) was an important food source. It was men’s business to hunt dugongs and it was their responsibility to cook and provide the meat to all the families. The meat of the dugong was cooked in an earth oven.
Our ancestors also made oil form the dugong fat. They used the oil for medicinal purposes. They used it for skin and hair treatments. When people had an upset stomach they used the oil as an ointment.
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Fire Sticks
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Kakan (Black Palm Dillybag)
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Ngunyin (Dillybag)
Dillybags played a vital part in Kuku Yalanji culture. Women used them to carry food when out hunting and gathering or soak bitter yams in creeks before cooking them. Dillybags were also used to hold personal and sacred items.
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Birmba (White Cockatoo)
Birmba (White Cockatoo) is my family totem. It has been passed down from generation to generation.
They are like protective spirits for me, my family and our loved ones who have passed away.
They always remind me of my late grandfather and my sister who I dearly miss.
The White Cockatoos give us signs. Good signs and signs of danger. They always let you know when to move on.
When I am out with my grandchildren, I say “that’s Nan there, overlooking us”, I let them know it’s family watching over them, keeping them connected to each other and country.
When I am alone, I know they are around. I speak to their spirit and they give me strength.
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Rainforest Birds
