Aboriginal Culture

Education

Within the Midwest region there are various localised Aboriginal language groups which are collectively known as Yamatji and include the Amangu people, Naaguja people, Wadjarri people, Nanda people, Badimia people and additionally the region includes the Western Desert people known as the Martu people.

 The Yamatji people have a strong presence in the region and a major focus for the City is to engage and consult with Aboriginal community groups on all key aspects pertaining to culture and to foster a unified approach towards building a positive sustainable future.

The City is committed to meeting cultural protocols with the traditional owners of Yamatji Country, and to have an understanding of the local Aboriginal history and promote and support the preservation of heritage and significant sites in the Midwest.

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History and Truth Telling

Aboriginal History of Geraldton  (Jambinu) and Surrounding Areas Booklet

The Aboriginal History of Geraldton (Jambinu) and Surrounding Areas booklet is the product of a strong eight month collaboration between  the Aboriginal community and the City of Greater Geraldton which was researched and written by Stan Gratte with the assistance of Dale Forsyth.

Research on the booklet also resulted in the production of an Aboriginal drive trail guide to accompany the booklet which provides a map that can easily be followed for people interested in visiting the historical sites referred to in the booklet. 

The booklet is on sale at the Geraldton Regional Library, Geraldton Visitor Centre and the WA Museum Geraldton. 

The Welcome to The Yamaji Drive Trail Map is free of charge and available at the same locations.

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Language

Wajarri Dictionary App

The Wajarri Dictionary App is the first of its kind in WA. It was been developed by the Bundiyarra – Irra Wangga Language Centre which is based in Geraldton.

The app features almost 2,000 Wajarri words. Each word has an English translation, as well a detailed description, including cultural and natural information (where available). Audio recordings with syllable breakdown to assist with pronunciation accompany all entries. The Wajarri language featured in this app was traditionally spoken in the Murchison region of the state, and is now spoken throughout the wider Midwest and with Wajarri people all over the country and planet.

The Wajarri Dictionary App is currently unavailable. Check back soon!

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Events

Click here to download a PDF version of the calendar

National Reconciliation Week (NRW)

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is celebrated across Australia each year between 27 May and 3 June. The dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey—the anniversaries of the successful 1967 referendum and the High Court Mabo decision.

The week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements and to explore how each of us can join the national reconciliation effort - no matter how big or small. We want you to connect with the community, stop racism or celebrate Indigenous success at every opportunity.

For more information, visit the National Reconciliation Week website.

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Reconciliation Action Plan

The City of Greater Geraldton Reconciliation Action Plan can be viewed here.

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Welcome to Country

"We would like to respectfully acknowledge the Southern Yamatji Peoples who are the Traditional Owners and First People of the land on which we stand. The Nhanhagardi, Wilunyu, Amangu. I would like to pay my respect to the Elders past, present and future for they hold the memories, the traditions, the culture and hopes of the Southern Yamatji Peoples.”

Click here to view the Welcome to Country Guide

Please direct all enquiries regarding Welcome to Country to the Community and Aboriginal Development Officer on 9956 6762.

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Yamatji Business Register

The Yamatji Business Register is an initiative of the Business Development Unit of Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation, established under clause 12 of the Yamatji Nation ILUA in conjunction with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

Click here to learn more 

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