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.

History
Year levels: 9 4 lessons
In this unit, students will explore the history and current issues of Aboriginal labour in Australia. Through personal stories, films, and activities, they will learn about key industries, the exploitation of Aboriginal workers, and the impact of stolen wages policies. Students will also study the contributions of First Nations activists who fought for their rights.
English
Year levels: 5-6 3 lessons
In this unit, students will analyse films, conduct online research, and engage in creative writing to explore biographies, autobiographies, and memoirs. Inspired by the stories of Ballardong Noongar Elders, they will learn about life in 1960s Western Australia. Students will then write and publish their own biography, autobiography, or memoir, focusing on themselves or someone they value, deepening their sense of identity and understanding of others.
English
History
Year levels: 10 3 lessons
n this unit, students will analyse films, conduct online research, and engage in creative writing to explore biographies, autobiographies, and memoirs. Inspired by the stories of Ballardong Noongar Elders, they will learn about life in 1960s Western Australia. Students will then write and publish their own biography, autobiography, or memoir, focusing on themselves or someone they value, deepening their sense of identity and understanding of others.
English
History
Year levels: 9 3 lessons
This unit explores the distinctions between Missions, Reserves, and Stations. Students will engage in research activities and creative writing, investigating the impact of government policies on First Nations communities and life on York Reserve.
English
History
Media Arts
Visual Arts
Kadeena Ryan, Noongar Custodian, describes walking her four daughters to school in York, enjoying peaceful mornings, waterfalls, and the welcoming shop owners.
English
History
Media Arts
Visual Arts
Jayde Bateman, Noongar Custodian, recalls her childhood introduction to shearing sheds, vowing never to work there—only to spend over a decade in them!
English
History
Media Arts
Visual Arts
Karlee Parnham, Noongar Custodian, reflects on special one-on-one time with her dad, chopping wood and exploring the bush together.
English
History
Media Arts
Visual Arts
Uncle Graham Nettle, Whadjuk Noongar Elder, shares the hard work of repairing railway lines with his team, a tribute to his strength and dedication.
English
History
Media Arts
Visual Arts
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.

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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