Walk to Gather
The ancient foods, practices and knowledge of Australia are at threat of being lost. The passing of elders — with their unique skills and knowledge — is one heartfelt concern for many younger Aboriginal people.
Martu women take us to Yulpu to learn the ways of their old people. Four generations of women gathered together to teach about bush food and medicine plants of their desert country. Even a group of schoolchildren took part in this special gathering.
Here, grandmothers are keeping alive the skills of food preparation. And no one in the world has such expertise of Australian bush tucker.
The women are able to share valuable time together and speak of Jakapiri, Wamurla, Kalaru, Lungkurn and learn how to prepare Green Bird Flower, Bush Tomato, Sandhill wattle and other plants. They make special food and elegant artworks; old and new ways to teach and learn are blended.
"Young people need to know the old people’s ways. They need to know what our Martu ancestors did in bushman times. This is for our children and children of the future,” says Chrissy Sailor.