Western Yalanji: Connecting to language and Country through virtual reality

In this final episode of Guardians of Language and Country, we journey to Western Yalanji Country. Set against the rugged beauty of Far North Queensland’s rivers and freshwater creeks, this episode explores how Western Yalanji people are preserving their language—through teaching on Country, sharing intergenerational knowledge, and embracing new technologies. Brad Grogan from Western Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation shares plans for a language app and a virtual reality project that will allow connection to Country in the digital space. Rangers Lindsay Gore and Nisha Williams offer insights into everyday language use and the vast resource of cultural knowledge elders hold. From snakes interrupting interviews to heartfelt reflections on legacy and learning, this episode is a powerful reminder that language is more than words—it’s identity, connection, and a way home.

We're more visual people and hands on people than we are sitting down doing the desk and learning. If you can virtually see an animal or a plant that you're trying to learn the language of, even though you're not right there touching it, it's going to make you feel like you're there, you're immersed in it.

Brad Grogan

LISTEN TO

Western Yalanji: Connecting to language and Country through virtual reality

SBS NITV Radio

19:23English

Credits:

Hosts: Donnie Johannesen and Alden Lyall

Supervising Producer: Donnie Johannesen

Producer: Alden Lyall

Additional Production: Mandy Coolen

SBS Team: Kerri-Lee Barry, Joel Supple, Max Gosford, Bernadette Phương Nam Nguyễn