Ballardong Noongar

Ballardong Noongar Boodja spans a diverse region, including the towns of Northam, York, Beverley, Goomalling, Cadoux, Koorda, Wyalkatchem, Cunderdin, and Kellerberrin. This land is deeply tied to Noongar creation stories, including the path of the Wagyl, the Rainbow Serpent, who shaped the rivers, swamps, and waterholes that remain central to Noongar culture. The word “Noongar” means ‘a person of the south-west of Western Australia,’ and ‘Boodja’ refers to the land.

For thousands of years, the Ballardong Noongar people have lived on and cared for this land, passing down their cultural knowledge and responsibilities to ensure the well-being of Boodja for future generations.

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Kadeena Ryan, Noongar Custodian, describes walking her four daughters to school in York, enjoying peaceful mornings, waterfalls, and the welcoming shop owners.
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Jayde Bateman, Noongar Custodian, recalls her childhood introduction to shearing sheds, vowing never to work there—only to spend over a decade in them!
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Karlee Parnham, Noongar Custodian, reflects on special one-on-one time with her dad, chopping wood and exploring the bush together.
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Uncle Graham Nettle, Whadjuk Noongar Elder, shares the hard work of repairing railway lines with his team, a tribute to his strength and dedication.
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Aunty Merle Narkle Goodwin, Noongar Elder, recalls defying segregation laws by sitting in a cafe to drink a milkshake, making a powerful statement despite being forced out.
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Aunty Lois Ralph, Noongar Elder, tells the story of a winter fire accident and her grandmother’s quick actions that saved her life!
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Aunty Audrey Nettle, Noongar Elder, shares a mischievous childhood memory of stealing almonds and getting caught in the tree!
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Aunty Merle Narkle Goodwin and Aunty Audrey Nettle, Noongar Elders, recall life on York Reserve.
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Aunty Merle Narkle Goodwin and Aunty Audrey Nettle, Noongar Elders, welcome you to Ballardong Noongar Boodja

Warning

 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are warned that the content on this site may contain images and references to deceased persons.

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