22 Jan Homes North attends Launch of the Walaay Gayaa (Happy Camp) Book at Mara Mara

This morning, Homes North staff members Breanna Johns, Chantelle Allan, and Caitlyn Butler attended the launch of the Walaay Gayaa (Happy Camp) book at Mara Mara. This powerful book tells the story of the original Aboriginal families who camped here, survived, and built a strong, resilient community.

The launch began with a Smoking Ceremony to honour the Gamilaraay people, the traditional custodians of the land. The girls was privileged to meet the descendants of the original Walaay Gayaa families, who shared stories passed down through generations. These stories brought to the camp to life, from hard days in the abattoirs and sawmills, to the smells of sawdust and bush tucker cooking over an open fire.

The Uraah Innovations & Cultural Services (UI&CS) team showcased traditional medicines and cultural displays, with the girls experiencing the benefits of emu fat as a moisturiser and uraah tree oil. They also enjoyed a delicious bush tucker feast, including curried chicken, savory kangaroo mince, and emu curry.

Breanna, Chantelle, and Caitlyn had a special moment adding their symbols to a large canvas mapping the camp, representing the storytelling and connection they felt throughout the day. Caitlyn said, “It was particularly moving to stand alongside our own Chantelle Allan, a proud descendant of the late Valerie (nee Porter), one of the original Walaay Gayaa families”.

Caitlyn also expressed her immense gratitude and pride in her culture – the stories, art, people, Elders, and land – and looks forward to the release of future series to learn more and celebrate these traditions.

We thank Breanna, Chantelle, and Caitlyn for sharing their experience with us.