From the heart of the Kimberley, in far north-west Australia, comes this special collection of original songs in Bunuba, Gooniyandi, Walmajarri, Kimberley Kriol and English. Created for young children – but engaging for all ages – these songs, stories and illustrations reflect the rhythms of daily life in this unique and beautiful part of the world. The songs were written by early childhood educators, Elders, language educators, musicians, and school students from Fitzroy Crossing, Western Australia, and nearby Communities. Many were developed through songwriting action research at Baya Gawiy Buga yani Jandu yani u, an early childhood education and care centre run by Marninwarntikura Women's Resource Centre. You can also listen to the songs on the free companion album produced by Tura. Features four Languages: Bunuba, Gooniyandi, Walmajarri and Kimberley Kriol. English translations included.<p></p>
NTRO Output Category
- Original Creative Work : Other
Place
Fitzroy Crossing, Western AustraliaVenue
Baya Gawiy Buga Yani Jandu Yani UNTRO Publisher
Indigenous Literacy FoundationMedium
Songbook - original song lyrics, notation, translation of lyrics, introductory material, biographies, illustrationsResearch Statement
Research background
This songbook addresses an urgent need for culturally grounded First Language resources for early years education in Fitzroy Crossing. The research asked how song materials—developed in collaboration with senior speakers, educators, and families—could strengthen endangered Kimberley languages and support two-way learning and wellbeing. Situated at the intersection of community music, Indigenous education, and language revitalisation, the songbook is a rare source of high-quality teaching materials reflecting Fitzroy Valley knowledge systems and worldviews.
Research contribution
As co-composer of 16 songs and editor, I helped translate the outcomes of a 3-year relational songwriting project into a pedagogically rich print resource. The songbook shows how collaboratively composed songs in endangered First Languages can be rendered into educational form through lyrics, translations, artwork, and contextual stories by community members. It contributes to music composition and Indigenous education by demonstrating how co-created works become culturally governed learning resources that strengthen language, pride, and intergenerational engagement.
Research significance
The songbook’s excellence is demonstrated through strong community uptake. Distributed through the project’s regional Roadshow, it is now used daily at Baya Gawiy and Fitzroy Valley District High School, and is inspiring new songwriting projects. Its launch generated six radio interviews, a national NITV news feature, and extensive local performances. Publication by the Indigenous Literacy Foundation and the project’s role in securing Tura’s $505,000 Indigenous Languages and Arts grant further attest to its cultural, educational, and artistic significance. Nationwide sales will generate royalties to the Fitzroy Crossing community for further investment in language and arts education. It represents exemplary practice in community-led, research partnership.Size or Duration of Work
88 pages, 22 songs and song notationsAffiliation
Gillian Howell, University of Melbourne
