Bana – Yirriji

Wujal Wujal is part of the traditional homelands of the Eastern Kuku (Goo-goo) Yalanji (Ya-lan-gee). The name ‘Wujal Wujal’ or ‘many falls’ is derived from the local language.  The waterfalls are very sacred to the community. For these sensitive cultural reasons, the general public only have access to one waterfall. Other waterfalls are reserved for the female members of the local community. Indigenous people regard the inland waters, rivers, wetlands, and sea, as an inseparable part of their lands. As well as supporting social and economic well- being, our relationship with waters, lands and its resources is important to cultural vitality and resilience  These vibrant hand painted silks are a portrayal of the land – rainforests, waterfalls, mountains, the rivers and sea.

Studio Photography: Photo Corner

Location Photography: Lovegreen Photography

Designers: Bana-Yirriji Arts Centre

Carmel Haines

Hi my name is Carmel Haines and I am an artist at the Bana Yirriji Art and Cultural Centre Wujal Wujal. My clan group is Nyungkal. My Grandmother’s country is Shiptons Flat area and my Grandfathers country is Helenvale, Mungumby and Kingsplain. I grew up in Wujal Wujal and did my entire primary schooling here, then went to Boarding School in Townsville. I have always like artwork at school and have continued practising since then. I enjoy working at the Art Centre and creating things.

Jarrett Bassani

My name is Jarrett Bassani and I am an artst here at the Bana Yirriji Art Centre.
My clan groups are Lama Lama from my grandfather who is from Coen and Kuku Yalanji from my grandmother who is a
traditonal owner from Wujal Wujal.
I have been painting for a few years now, recently I have learned how to print and am enjoying the different mediums. Most of my print and painting idea’s come from the land and animals around me.

Betty Sykes

I was born in Cooktown and grew up in the Ayton area. I went to school at the Bloomfield state school and then to Warrick High School south of Brisbane.
Our family totem is the Eagle. I am from the Jalanji tribe which means from the sea area. At 17 I worked at the post office and then I met Clyde my partner.
I have 4 children, 2 grown up and 2 at school still. I also look after my sister’s daughter.
I have been learning to bead with Doreen Creek using seeds that we collect from the forest.
I also love painting and making designs for textiles, especially silk.

Josie Olbar

My name is Josie Olbar, I am a Kuku Yalanji woman. I was born in Cooktown, my family come from the seaside country.