Buŋgul: The Power of Song and Dance

As the sun sets on the Garma day, the Yolŋu clans gather for buŋgul upon the ancient ceremonial grounds at Gulkula.

This is where stories and knowledge enshrined in the land, the sea and sky are brought to life through song, dance, and ceremony.

As Gumatj bunggul leader, Balupalu Yunupingu explains: "When I was little, about 10 years old, I was starting to learn dancing. 

Just looking at the other older people, and seeing the way they react, and that’s when I started picking up their actions. 

The dance is very, very important to kids when they are learning. It is your background that you are starting to learn. Every child has to learn from the beginning."

So close your eyes and sink your feet into the warm ceremonial sand.

Drink in the sounds of the songmen and their manikay (traditional song). 

Let the call of the yidaki and the rhythm of the bilma (clapsticks) guide you, as the colours of the clans and the perfect symmetry of their movements blend in harmony.