Green - Tawalpin The Cotton Tree
Tawalpin, known to many as the Cotton Tree, holds a very special place within our culture and way of life. This tree is more than just part of the landscape, it is a provider, a healer, and a tool for survival, carrying a deep purpose for our people.
From its stems, we would carefully cut and dry pieces over time, preparing them to be used as the bottom stick in traditional fire-making. This practice was not just about creating flame but about maintaining connection to the old ways, where every spark carried knowledge and continuity.
The trunk of the Tawalpin also held great value. By cutting into its bark, we accessed its strong fibres, which, when mixed with water, could be made into a healing ointment. This natural remedy was applied to treat bad cuts and burns, offering relief and restoration gifted to us by Country.
Even the leaves of the Tawalpin carried dual purpose. The rough side was pressed onto wounds to help draw out infection, while the smooth side was laid across the skin to seal and protect the healing site, a natural bandage created long before the world knew of modern medicine.
Tawalpin reminds us of the deep wisdom held in every tree and plant around us. It is a living pharmacy, a fire-maker, and a symbol of how our Ancestors lived in balance with Country, guided by knowledge passed down through generations.
Red - Toombra - A Place of the People
Toombra is the name we use for the area where the school now stands, a place that once held great significance to the Undumbi people of the Kabi Kabi Nation. In the time of our Ancestors, Toombra was not just a location, but a large village area, a gathering place that stretched across a significant part of our Country.
Here, families lived, shared knowledge, and cared for one another. The land provided the resources needed for food, ceremony, and daily life, while the community gave strength, belonging, and identity. Toombra carried the footsteps of our people, echoing with the voices of elders, the laughter of children, and the stories sung into the land.
Though the landscape has changed, Toombra remains a place of deep cultural meaning. It reminds us of the enduring presence of the Undumbi people and the importance of honouring and protecting these connections to Country. For us, it is not only history, but a living memory that continues to guide and teach future generations.
Yellow - Gaalba - The Star
Gaalba means “star.” To us, Gaalba is more than just a light in the night sky, it is a guide, a storyteller, and a connection to our Ancestors.
For the Undumbi people of the Kabi Kabi Nation, the stars have always held deep meaning. They map the heavens above as songlines map the land below, guiding us across the Country and reminding us of our place within the universe. Gaalba carried direction for travellers, marking the change of seasons, the time to hunt, gather, or move, and the rhythm of life itself.
But Gaalba is also spiritual. Each star is a reminder of those who came before us, our Ancestors who now shine above, watching over and guiding us. When we look to the night sky, we do not just see light, we see the continuation of our story, written across the heavens.
Gaalba teaches us that we are never alone; we are always connected to Country, to one another, and to the eternal presence of our Ancestors.
Blue - Dingira - The Sea
Dingira means “the sea.” For the Undumbi people of the Kabi Kabi Nation, Dingira is not only water, it is life, spirit, and an eternal pathway that connects us to Country and to our Ancestors.
Dingira provides food and sustenance through fish, shellfish, and other sea life, gifting us nourishment and balance. Its tides and rhythms guided our people, teaching us when to gather, when to travel, and when to respect the sacred cycles of nature.
Spiritually, Dingira holds great power. It is a place of cleansing and renewal, where the saltwater heals the body and the spirit. The sea also carries our stories, Dreaming stories that speak of creation, of journeys across the waters, and of the deep relationship between land and ocean.
When we stand by Dingira, we are reminded that our people have always been saltwater people, shaped by the waves, guided by the stars above, and grounded by the sands beneath our feet. Dingira is both our provider and our teacher, a sacred part of who we are.
Totem animals of the Area
Gudjela – Wedgetail Eagle
The Wedgetail Eagle is the main totem that represents all clan groups of the Kabi Kabi Nation. Known as Gudjella, this powerful bird of prey soars across our skies and holds a strong cultural presence. It represents strength, leadership, and a higher perspective. In many stories, the eagle is a protector and messenger, guiding people and watching over Country from above. Its presence in this area connects us to the land and sky, reminding us of vision, protection, and responsibility.
Muru-Kutchi - Red Beak Black Swan
The Black Swan, or Muru-Kutchi, is tied to a local Dreamtime story of transformation, identity, and resilience. The Black Swan, or Muru-Kutchi, is tied to the local Dreamtime story of Maroochy, Coolum, and Ninderry. In this story, after heartbreak and struggle, Maroochy was transformed into a beautiful Black Swan, where she continues to glide along the rivers and waterways. This story connects the swan to themes of love, resilience, and transformation, as well as a deep connection to the land and waters of this Country.
Gangga – Sea Eagle
The Sea Eagle, or Gangga, has long been an important guide for the Kabi Kabi people. Its movements and presence were used as a natural sign to let us know when the mullet were running during their seasonal migration. When Gangga was seen circling over the ocean or diving for fish, it was the signal that the time was right to hunt and gather mullet, ensuring food for the community. This connection highlights the deep relationship between people, animals, and Country, where the eagle acts as both a hunter and a messenger, teaching us to live in balance with the natural cycles of the seasons.