DEDICATION

We dedicate this book to our grandfather, our mother’s father, our ŋathi, Djulwanbirr Mungurrawuy Yunupiŋu. Djulwanbirr is his deep name, a name that we only use in certain significant contexts. Our mother was his first child. He was the teacher for Mum, he taught her everything, taught all of his children. He was a strong leader, a Gumatj clan leader, a master of ceremonies. He was a powerful leader who made sure that Yolŋu people and his own clan were safe. He always negotiated with non-Indigenous people and other clans. He used to tell us bedtime stories around the campfire. He was a family man with a good heart. We have very fond memories of our grandfather because he loved his grandchildren deeply and treated us all equally. He was involved in our activities. When we had our school fete he was there, at the church choir, at everything.

Djulwanbirr Mungurrawuy Yunupiŋu, grandfather of Laklak, Ritjilili, Merrkiyawuy and Banbapuy. (The Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka Art Centre archives and courtesy of Ian Dunlop)

We also want to dedicate this to our grandfather because of his yumalil, his sweet harmony, his sweet voice. He passed it down to our mothers and their daughters and sons. It makes people cry, it touches their heart. Now it is our responsibility to teach and share.