The Taungurung Land and Waters Council (TLaWC) has announced the release of the next children’s  book in Taungurung and English languages, following the successful launch of BIJIL BA WUDHI DEBERRA  in June. 

GUKRA-U GARRINGA BIJILAL (Bijil’s Bigger Cloak) is authored by Aunty Loraine Padgham, Taungurung  Elder. This is the second book in the Bijil series – the first received glowing reviews from readers and  now features in a range of schools, kindergartens and bookstores across Taungurung Country. 

The Bijil book series focuses on the ordinary activities a Taungurung family would have experienced  prior to colonisation. The books include a QR code that can be scanned to listen to the story read in Taungurung language. 

“I was overwhelmed by the public response for BIJIL BA WUDHI DEBERRA, which was the first children’s  book to use Taungurung language,” Aunty Loraine said. 

“What started out as an exercise in exploring and applying Taungurung language demonstrated a broader public acknowledgement and interest in the culture of the Taungurung people.” 

TLaWC CEO Matt Burns noted the positive response from the community, who now have increased access to an accurate depiction of Taungurung culture that is suitable for the youngest generations.  

“The revitalisation of Taungurung language is a longstanding priority of the Taungurung community and is reflected as a core focus in TLaWC’s strategic plan,” Matt Burns said. 

“The addition of these new books into schools and kindergartens ensures that children have access to  Taungurung language from a young age.” 

The series is dedicated to the Taungurung people, past and present, who have cared for Taungurung  Country and culture since time immemorial. 

GUKRA-U GARRINGA BIJILAL and BIJIL BA WUDHI DEBERRA are available for purchase on TLaWC’s  website https://taungurung.com.au/store for $20 each.