This week I had the absolute pleasure of going walkabout with my friend, Wiruungga Dunggirr, indigenous Aboriginal elder of the Namba Gumbaynggar Nation (around Nambuka Heads, NSW). He learnt from many generations of his family and freely shares his deep knowledge of the land and plants. \

Wiruungga often takes busloads of resources (clothes, books, toys) to Aboriginal people in need. He also takes people on journeys out into indigenous Australia to learn and experience the ancient culture of this land. He participates in international gatherings of indigenous elders too.

Join Wiruungga and I on this walk and talk through the landscape exploring a wide range of topics along the way. I like how Wiruungga referred to the landscape as ‘nature’s supermarket’ – a great source of food, medicine and resources. It is interesting to note too that around 80% of food for Aboriginal people was from foraging and that there was a natural way of farming that took place – the active yet gentle enhancement of diverse and abundant edible landscapes and food forests.

There is so very much that those interested in living a permaculture, low-impact and simple lifestyle can learn from indigenous culture and leaders if we are willing to listen and learn.

Your questions for Wiruungga?

Wiruungga and I plan to do a series of these walkabouts in different locations and see what we can find along the way.

If you have a question you’d like to ask Wiruungga, please put them in the comments below. I will endeavour to ask as many of these questions next time I see him for a yarn and walkabout.