Arabana Ngura: a weekend of language, learning and togetherness
There is something special about coming together on Country. From 26–28 September, Arabana families gathered at Finniss Springs for our Annual Arabana Ngura (camp) for a weekend of language, music, learning and plenty of time together.
The celebrations began on Friday morning with the official opening of Arabana Warli in Marree, before everyone headed out to Finniss. Warli means shelter, and its opening marked an important milestone: a welcoming place for Arabana people to stay, gather and reconnect, and helping our Elders return to Country.
At camp, wangka Arabana (Arabana language) was a big part of the weekend. Language workshops, singing and music gave people opportunities to learn, practice and enjoy language together. These activities build on the ongoing work of the Wangka Arabana Group and the people putting so much time and care into developing resources to keep our language strong and lived.
A native plants workshop and a field trip with our Rangers brought more opportunities to learn on Country. Taking time to look, listen and ask questions together is an important part of sharing knowledge and strengthening our connection to Wadlhu (Country).
And there was plenty of fun along the way. As the days wound down, shared dinners and nights around the campfires gave everyone time to yarn, laugh and enjoy each other’s company. Those moments are as much a part of camp as the workshops, time for catching up with family, making memories and simply being together.
The weekend brought to life what our Wadlhu Ngurrku-Ku Framework speaks to: the connection between healthy Country, strong community and doing things the proper way. It was a chance to spend time with one another, share knowledge across generations and carry language and culture into everyday moments.
Thank you to everyone who came along, shared their knowledge, led activities, prepared meals and helped bring the weekend together. We also thank BHP for supporting our cultural camp. A special thank you goes out to staff who worked tirelessly on the logistics and bringing these events together.
Enjoy these photos of a special weekend together on Arabana Country.
Comments