DAUGHTERS OF SUNRISE
Proud Yolngu woman Magnolia Maymuru lives in the Gove Peninsula in north-east Arnhem Land, a unique part of the Northern Territory known as sunrise country, which is fitting, because just as the world embarks on a new beginning, so too has Magnolia been reborn this year after the birth of her daughter, Djarraran. As the model speaks to award-winning Yuwaalaraay writer and storyteller Nardi Simpson about the strong and grounding connection sacred mornings in her Country offer her, they also reflect upon the duality of sunrises – and new beginnings – being both ancient and new. Fashion directed by Christine Centenera. Styled by Kaila Matthews. Photographed by Charles Dennington.
With the birth of a baby daughter in March, Maminydjama (Magnolia) Maymuru, was reborn. Remarkable for a woman still only 24 years old, with an already impressive modelling career that spans major runways and magazine features, an AACTA award for Best Supporting Actress for The Nightingale, and a finalist placing in Miss World Australia 2016. Yet this remarkable remaking belongs to a world far removed from the glamour of fashion shoots and the buzz of red carpets. Hers is a walk conducted upon sacred and sovereign land, woven into tradition and melodious ceremony. It enhances the already-danced pathways of kinship and relation. Maymuru’s transition is in the model of her ancients – generations of Djarrakpi women who have birthed daughters, become mothers and inserted themselves into the great Wangarr (Dreaming) of Yolngu culture.
And as if her baby was born already knowing her inheritance – the compounded and overflowing strength of her kin – in her earliest months she speaks, adding her voice to her mother’s in this interview. Here, I listen as Magnolia shares visions of her homelands, the sun and the ancient and newly born kinship that runs through her veins.
Magnolia Maymuru wears a Christian Dior dress. Tiffany & Co. earrings and necklace. Djarraran wears a custom Jordan Dalah onesie. Details at Vogue.com.au/WTB.