Larrakia language project: a living culture in a changing world – a tribute to Yirra

Abstract

Larrakia country covers the areas of Darwin and surrounds. It is bounded by the mouth of the Finniss River, Manton Dam, and around to the mouth of the Adelaide River. The Larrakia Language Project is introduced by a summary discussion of the changes that occurred in the lives of Larrakia people during the first half of the twentieth century. Particular examples of such change are examined from the personal perspective of an individual whose life spanned the first fifty years of the past century. The effect of the changes experienced on the Larrakia language is demonstrated in the life of this person and that of her children. Today's talk begins with the introduction of the person central to my presentation.