14 Jan Dreamtime Stories
Community members gathered for a special evening of storytelling and cultural immersion as Yaegl Elder Uncle Ron Heron shared Dreamtime Stories of the Clarence Valley and beyond.
Held at twilight, nestled in the garden at Irons and Craig Café, adults and children gathered around the yarning mat as much loved storyteller Uncle Ron captivated and entertained the crowd.
Stories centred around the mighty Clarence River and its creation by the powerful women Dirrangun. The Yaegl connection to local landmarks and significant Aboriginal heritage sights including Ulgundahi Island, Woodford and Susan Island. Plus, insights into the treasures of our local bush foods as a rich source of vitamins and traditional medicinal practices using native plants.
Yaegl Elder Aunty Lenore Parker gave a heart-warming Welcome to Country which left a lasting impression on all guests, inviting everyone to open their hearts, to walk-together, and respect each other.
Community member Laurel Moore shared her experience, “The ‘Dreamtime Stories’ afternoon with Uncle Ron was a wonderful event to be a part of. The spirit, the stories and the strong sense of community that they invoked, made this a very special afternoon. The strong, melodic sound of the didgeridoo, played by Lenny Anderson, enhanced this connectedness. It was a great event, that I can highly recommend.”
The evening was completed with a spellbinding performance by Yaegl man and musician Len Anderson, who breathed life into the Digeridoo, producing deep rhythmic sounds that amplified across the garden.
Uncle Ron’s Dreamtime Stories will be held monthly, supported by local not-for-profit organisation Circulanation. This is an event not to be missed, follow on Facebook for event announcements: https://www.facebook.com/circulanation/
Photography: Amber Toms