Yugambeh Language

The world boasts many languages. Some are widely spread and known, many are on the cusp of being forgotten entirely. Language is not only a key method of communication, but also a way of understanding the culture and history of an entire group of people.
JINGERI JIMBELUNG (HELLO FRIEND)

This year the Junior School is embarking on a deeper understanding of Kombumerri culture by learning Yugambeh language. Yugambeh is spoken by the local Aboriginal Kombumerri people who are the Traditional Custodians of the land that stretches from Logan city to the Tweed. College staff have worked in consultation with the community via the guidance of Dr Candace Kruger, Griffith University Lecturer, Yugambeh Elder and Songwoman who is a Kombumerri-Ngugi Traditional Custodian of Yugambeh Gold Coast and Quandamooka Moreton Island.

Every week students are focusing on a Yugambeh Word of the Week and teachers are utilising various strategies to ensure best practice of the ATSI standards as outlined in the Australian Curriculum (ACARA). The Yugambeh Word of the Week is highlighted in the Prep-Year 3 Student Planners. Due to the success of this initiative, Years 4-6 students will also be learning Yugambeh language in SELF lessons, with the inclusion of the Yugambeh Word of the Week in all Junior School Student Planners for 2024.

Further to this, the Early Learning Centre, Banjo and Friends and Outside School Hours Care will be including the Yugambeh language list in their programs with students. For the remainder of the term students will be focusing on the words below.

Week Yugambeh Pronunciation English
5
Buneen
Buh-neen
Echidna
6
Kilamburran
Kul-um-bar-run
Magpie
7
Taran
Tar-run
Frog
8
Banjilamm
Bun-jee-larm
Butterfly
9
Gowonda
Go-one-dah
Dolphin

One of our greatest strengths at A.B Paterson College is the diversity of cultures represented throughout our student body. We look forward to sharing more in this space.

Ngaurai Ngulongmai (Speak Soon)

Samantha Middleton | Year 2 Teacher