Martu have been saying for a long time they would like to see more of KJ’s non-Martu staff learning their languages. It’s a message that hasn’t gone unheeded – as Martu have been coming into the office to teach staff, and bit-by-bit, they’re learning!

Rangers and elders have conducted helicopter mapping and waru work out of Parnngurr and Punmu. Two very important rock holes were found — Jiman and Juntiwa — as well as having the chance to capture elders’ stories.

The development of a digital app for Martu to use on country is currently underway! As Martu travel country, this app is planned to show the names and locations of kalyu (waterholes) and share the stories and histories of Martu elders.

This year Martu Elders, KJ Rangers from Punmu, Kunawarritji and Parnngurr, as well as family members from Bidyadanga participated in four mapping trips focusing on the northern parts of Martu Country.  

Forty-one participants came together from Jigalong, Punmu, Parnngurr, Kunawarritji, Wiluna, Hedland, Karratha, Nullagine and Newman to be a part of this year’s Kalyuku Ninti trip. This was an important pilgrimage for the Girgiba, Crusoe, Patch, Watson, Atkins and James families.