Traditional Storytelling

Stories are the expression of our culture and our land. Our oral traditions substantiate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives about the past, present and future, and allow us to pass on concepts and beliefs from generation to generation.

Important communications and histories have been carried across history via various mediums such as message sticks, rock and sand art, body painting, song, dance and carvings. Nowadays, more contemporary histories and events are often expressed through visual and performing arts.

Though there are many different types of stories, they tend to fall into four broad categories: collective histories, spiritual narratives, cultural practices and life histories. Wanyara story sessions explore these different types of stories drawing from both traditional and more modern approaches. We combine specific cultural practices, traditions, languages, laws and songs to help participants understand the air, the land, the universe, the people, the culture and the history of Indigenous Australians. Wherever possible, we also use the local language and often include Aboriginal elders who represent the Traditional Owners of both the stories and the land.