Two Women, One Island: Life, Change and Belonging in Galiwin’ku

What can two women - one who’s lived in Galiwin’ku most of her life, and one who made it home - teach us about holding knowledge, building community, and navigating change in a remote Yolŋu community? In this episode, we hear from two women with different journeys but a shared commitment to community. Heather Yeparrnga, a Yolŋu educator and grandmother, has lived her whole life in Galiwin’ku. She speaks about what it means to raise strong children, to stay close to country, and to guide the next generation with patience, respect, and Yolŋu values. Sandra Rarrapul Dhamarrandji, who moved to Galiwin’ku ten years ago, brings her own experiences of learning, listening, and finding purpose in a place far from where she began.

Together, they reflect on the changes they’ve seen, how social media is reshaping learning and relationships, and how old ways of teaching are adapting to new challenges. Heather shares a classroom song, sung gently to remind children to sit still and listen-words that take on even more meaning in a world of constant digital noise.

 I need to be around the sea. I can't go away from here. This is my home.

Heather Yeparrnga

This is not just a story about health, it’s about continuity, disruption, and the quiet strength of Yolŋu women who lead by example. It’s about what gets passed on, what’s at risk of being lost, and the deep sense of belonging and instinct that anchors it all.

The woman, usually they learn from their mothers. So they have that knowledge. You don't teach them. They know, it's an instinct.

Sandra Rarrapul

LISTEN TO

Two Women, One Island: Life, Change and Belonging in Galiwin’ku

SBS NITV Radio

16:42English

Credits:

Two Worlds, One Health is created by Dr Sarah Hanieh

Host: Dr Sarah Hanieh

Production assistance: Lindy Marlow

Artwork: Ruth Gulamanda Dhurrkay and Rickisha Banba Gurruwiwi

Mixed by Max Gosford

Photo credit: Ros Beadle

Thanks to Joel Supple and Bernadette Phương Nam Nguyễn

This podcast was recorded on the lands of the Yolŋu people in Galiwin’ku. I pay my respect to their Elders, past and present, and acknowledge their ongoing connection to the land, water, and culture.