ANSTO has hosted an event to launch a new Dharawal language learning resource for pre-school and primary students at the nandin innovation centre, which was attended by the Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Linda Burney MP on 8 October.
Dharawal Publishing, who produced Dharawal Words Phrases and Activities (compiled and edited by Dr Jodi Edwards, illustrated by Merindah Funnell in association with Elder Aunty Barb Simms), celebrated its release with an event that included several cultural performances.
The program included cleansing smoke by Kugang, traditional song and dance by Gumaraa, the national anthem in Dharawal by Tahlia King and a musical performance from the Cairns-based Gondwana choir.
Educator Dr Edwards a Walbunja Woman of the Yuin Nation and the Vice Chancellor's Indigenous Research Fellow RMIT, drew on a range of academic and other resources to compile the words used in the book, including Dharawal and Yuin knowledge holders.
She acknowledged the support and encouragement of the late Les Bursill, the former Dharawal cultural advisor to ANSTO, who compiled a Dharawal dictionary during his life, among other work.
CEO Shaun Jenkinson, said that ANSTO proudly supported this very important educational resource that was contributing to a revival of the Dharawal language.
ANSTO also undertakes various activities to support Aboriginal cultural heritage through scientific research in association with traditional custodians.
In addition, other initiatives include the cultural recognition of Dharawal country at Lucas Heights and the Boonwurrung people of the Kulin Nation at Clayton (where the Australian Synchrotron is located).
ANSTO has sponsored several Dharawal projects in the Sutherland Shire, including a resource kit for Dharawal school students of the South Coast.
Dharawal Words Phrases and Activities is available from the ANSTO shop and the book website.
