Significance of Seasonal Patterns to the Worimi Nation
Learn from our First Nations Education Officer, James Rogers, about the unique methods the Worimi people use to predict resource availability, cultural activities and harvest times.
Aboriginal Seasonal Calendars
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nations did not have an established calendar like the Gregorian Calendar, that is used in Australia and abroad. Instead, indigenous nations would observe the elements that coincide with resource presence. Utilising the wind, sea temperature, animal lifecycles, and even the moon and stars, indigenous nations would be informed of resource availability and associated culture activities.
Worimi Seasonal Cultural Calendar
Last month was significant to the Worimi people of Port Stephens as April is the first month where a noticeable temperature change is observed. The temperature will continue to decline throughout the autumn months. At this point, Ochrogaster lunifer or referred to as “hairy grub” (Balay) will begin to come down from the trees in search of a pupation site where they will remain until September.
These grubs will descend from the trees and be seen moving along the ground in a line one after another. This is significant to the Worimi people as this is an indication that the mullet (Biiwa) are beginning to school and will be preparing for their annual migration north. As the Worimi people were nomadic, the grubs descending indicate the change in weather and signals the time to stop coastal fishing and move inland for warmer conditions and terrestrial food options.
Interested in learning more about Aboriginal culture? Join our Aboriginal Culture Show! Listen to the sacred sounds of the Didgeridoo, hear melodious vocals, get inspired by Yugambeh Aboriginal dance and enjoy some Dreamtime Story time. *This show is included in your general admission. Get your tickets today!