Indigenous language programs win funding

NINE Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander language preservation and revival initiatives in the Far North have received Queensland Government funding.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Minister Jackie Trad said supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to preserve, speak and engage in society through their language of choice was a critical part of providing equal access to opportunities, inclusion and supporting rich, cultural diversity in Queensland.

Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council has secured a $15,000 grant for their Indigenous Language Preservation Program, creating an app for the younger children of the community to teach and preserve the Kuku Yalanji language. Others include:

■ Buubu Gujin Aboriginal Corporation for “Ngaanthungay Thagaal-ngun, Nhilangan, Gurra galmba Gaadaanu” (Women of the Past, Today, and Future).

■ Douglas Shire Community Services Association Ltd for a project in indigenous language.

■ Isabella State School P&C Committee for NAIDOC indigenous languages and dance performance.

■ Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation for Eastern Kuku Yalanji Family History Stories second edition.

■ Kowanyama State School for exposing and teaching indigenous languages of Kowanyama.

■ Kuranda District State College P&C Association for a Djabugay language program.

■ Mossman State School P&C Association for a Kuku Yalanji indigenous language program and bilingual signs.