The drive to revitalise First Nations languages, many of which have declined or been lost in the time since colonisation, has taken another step, with the announcement of Yarrabil Bula, a collaboration between First Languages Australia and ABC Education.
The partnership aims to revitalise and celebrate First Nations languages through the power of song, sharing performances by First Nations artists who've created a collection of children's songs in the artists' own languages.
Meaning 'sing' in the Yugambeh language, Yarrabil was first released during NAIDOC Week 2024, introducing six songs which included words - or were performed - in the native language of the singer.
Yarrabil Bula - meaning two - will launch in time for the first school term this year and features tunes in palawa kani Yawuru, Wiradjuri, Pitjantjatjara and Yugambeh.
"There are still so many people in this country who have no idea of how many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages there are, and how different they are from each other," Yugambeh woman, Yarrabil project lead and artist, Faith Baisden, said.
"Listening to the beautiful languages we are sharing in the Yarrabil collection is the perfect way to start the journey of discovery."
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Yarrabil Bula also introduces Greeting Song, a unique collaboration which sees artists translate lyrics into their own language in an example of powerful linguistic diversity.
First Languages Australia chief executive and Murrawarri man, Beau Williams, said the collection was more than just songs.
Rather, it offers First Nations communities the chance to "share their culture and connect with others".
"Yarrabil Bula is a vital tool for language revitalisation and a source of pride for communities," he said.
"Singing in language helps connect performers to their Country and their community."
Highlighting the continued fight for language survival across First Nations communities, Mr Williams added: "We hope that this project will help ensure future generations continue to speak, sing and celebrate their languages."
The entire Yarrabil collection is available online through both the First Languages Australia and ABC Education websites, along with resources - including teaching materials and guides - to help incorporate First Nations languages into classrooms.
"This project is a delight from many perspectives: from introducing children to new languages and histories to the enjoyment of music and performance," head of ABC education, Annabel Astbury, said.
"The songs enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to develop a wider recognition and understanding of their language and culture and for non-indigenous students, the songs in Yarrabil Bula opens up a world of language and appreciation for the rich and enduring First Nations cultures that thrive in Australia."
More information and to access the Yarrabil songs can be found online.