Where were you born?

Story and photos by Beverley Callow.

For Phil Sullivan, the upcoming Gundabooka 30-year anniversary is a celebration.

He says it brings his people, “the Karulkiyalu stone country mob” back to the beginning of where they all started.

Of the past, Phil questions “what was yesterday for us, and what is today for us? It was yesterday we learned for today” and believes there are three things we need to think about.

“There’s a whole lot of different clan groups and tribal groups in our community,” he says. “Where do we belong? What is our identity? And what is our purpose?” He asks how the future fits into this. “What is our next generation going to bring forth? What is the real story about that?” […]

Madi Glass, NPWS Ranger for Gundabooka says the anniversary event had largely been organised and led by the Ngemba and Barkindji people through the park’s joint management structure, with strong community involvement.

The event on Saturday 6 June, starts at 10am and goes until approximately 2pm.

Lunch will be provided, including camp oven hot food, damper and vegetarian options.

Visitors are encouraged to take hats, sunscreen, water and cameras to photograph the landscape.

Transport assistance is available, so contact the park office to arrange transport.

Phil Sullivan from the Gundabooka co-management committee, talks about the upcoming Gundabooka National Park 30th anniversary. Photo: Beverley Callow