“As the sun goes down on Worrimai country, a sleepy village in NSW Australia, all the little bush friends wake up to play… and sometimes cause mischief.”
A children’s book penned by Gamilaroi and Weilwun woman Cherie Johnson will feature local Worrimai language to introduce kids to Aboriginal culture and storytelling.
The Newcastle-based author said Guuluu Gimbairjar incorporated Worrimai language throughout, which was the native tongue for Birray, Guringay and Warrimay people.
She added the inclusion of the dialect was under the guidance and direction of researcher, teacher and Worimi man Luke Russell, ensuring its authenticity.
“Sharing Aboriginal language and culture through storytelling is fundamental in Aboriginal communities and this is the perfect way to share stories with everyone,” Cherie added.
“The book tells the story of five magical creatures, Bapu, Mulin, Dawibang Puum, Wakaan and Narrin who awaken when the sun goes down and everyone else is asleep.
“The characters and illustrations are inspired from land culture and children’s art with my daughter Gabriella influencing the creation of the critter images.
“To see them come to life on the pages has been beautiful to see.”
Cherie is an educator by trade, so Guuluu Gimbaijar, meaning “bush friends” in Worrimai language from the Worimi people of the Mid-North Coast, is much more than just a children’s book.
“It boasts supporting teaching resources outlining how to navigate the resource while linking to the Australian curriculum and a focus on the positive behaviours for learning and problem-based learning (PBL) pedagogy,” she said.
“Our educators are always on the lookout for resources to help them embed Aboriginal content into learning outcomes.
“So, we have done the hard work for them by putting together lesson plans they can teach in the classroom.
“This book is suited to OOSH, early childhood and primary school readers and includes step-by-step guide to create the five characters made with easily accessible with coastal bush materials such as leaves and gum nuts.
“This is a really effective way to get the learning outcomes they need in a fun and interactive way.”
Guuluu Gimbairjar is Cherie’s first foray into children’s books.
But, she is no stranger to developing content for teachers.
Her day job is running Speaking in Colour, a 100% owned and operated Aboriginal company focused on embedding Aboriginal cultural perspectives into classrooms, government policy, board rooms and workplaces.
“It is so important to educate our educators about Aboriginal history and culture in a local setting,” she said.
“Our teachers need to feel comfortable and supported when they are both building relationships with local Aboriginal communities and teaching in the classroom.
“This is one of the fundamentals of what we do at Speaking in Colour.”
Guuluu Gimbairjar is now available to buy from www.speakingincolour.com.au
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