Uncle Michael Jarrett: 'Gumbaynggirr people believe that everything is connected'

Uncle Michael Jarrett is a proud Gumbaynggirr Elder living in Nambucca Heads on the Mid North Coast of NSW. He explains how the central relationship between land, people and the living world is both spiritual and practical.

Uncle Michael Jarrett Credit: Jay Black, And the Trees photography

In this episode of Conversations on Country, Uncle Michael discusses the interconnectedness central to Gumbaynggirr culture and beliefs.

Everything is connected

Creation stories, songs, dances and art inform Gumbaynggirr people's fundamental understanding of the world, as well as conveying ethical and moral obligations.

Uncle Michael shares Gumbaynggirr language and stories, such as Giidayn Miirarl (Muttonbird Island) and the Moon Man, which tells how the moon was created.

We are just starting to relearn our stories, relearn our songs, relearn our sacred places.

Produced by Liz Keen & Simon Portous - Headline Productions, and Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance

Host: Aunty Bea Ballangarry

Concept and Direction: Michelle Flanders

Cover art: Cassandra Sutton Photography

Music: Kauri Munro-Greentree & Ben Ferguson