It's time to pass on Aboriginal lore and culture to the next generation, says Jaru Elder, Stewart Morton.
Stewart Morton is one of the last local Jaru Elders in Halls Creek, where he’s working with Olabud Doogethu to help set up a Men’s Tribal Centre.
‘Today, while I’m still alive – still here, I’d like to see them catch the corroboree, get it into them, and take it forward from there, you know?’ said Stewart.
‘It’s really about teaching. Because there’s no more Old People here. I’m the only old fella here from this Country who’s got the knowledge of blackfella way. I learnt from my old parents. Its time coming, I’m getting a bit too old. I want to pass my knowledge on to the young people and take it from there and I hope you can take it along‘.
The Men’s Tribal Centre is located on Halls Creek’s former golf course, which is historically a traditional Aboriginal ceremonial grounds. The Men’s Tribal Centre will be a culturally safe space for Aboriginal men to come together, for young people to learn from local Elders, and for non-Aboriginal people to connect with the timeless Aboriginal cultures in the area.
The Men’s Tribal Centre is an initiative led by Olabud Doogethu Aboriginal Corporation, the Shire of Halls Creek, and the Elder’s Reference Group.
If you are interested in supporting Olabud Doogethu’s efforts to bring together a Men’s Tribal Centre in Halls Creek, you can contact Larry Smith on 9168 6007.
