15 Oct New Songbook Brings Kimberley Languages to Life for Children
Sing, Learn, Connect: Indigenous Songbook for Young Children
A new children’s songbook, Buga Yanu Junba: Songs for Young Children, has just been released alongside an album of the same name. Launched at the Baya Gawiy Early Childhood Centre in Fitzroy Crossing, the project celebrates the rich languages and cultures of the central Kimberley.
Published by the Indigenous Literacy Foundation, the songbook features original songs in Bunuba, Gooniyandi, Walmajarri and Kimberley Kriol, with English translations. It was created by a unique collaboration of Elders, educators, musicians, families and school students, working alongside researcher and musician Dr Gillian Howell as part of Tura’s award-winning Sound FX program.
The songs celebrate Country, identity and the enduring strengths of the Kimberley Peoples. They cover themes children can easily connect with – from the joyful return of brolgas each hot season to lessons about respecting Country and fishing sustainably.
Songwriter and Senior Language Custodian Patsy Ngalu Bedford said:
“I’m very proud to see the vision created by my Elders still being carried on today. Their dreams are coming true.”
Walmajarri educator Maria Marmingee Hand added:
“I hope these songs will help keep our Kimberley languages strong, and give strong pilyurr (spirit, essence) to all children everywhere.”
The beautifully illustrated book includes lyrics, chords, translations, songwriter introductions and even karaoke versions, making it a practical resource for both classrooms and homes. Children can sing, learn and connect with language while having fun.
Community launches and performances marked the release, with children proudly sharing the songs on stage. All royalties from the book go back to the Community, ensuring the project continues to strengthen language and culture for future generations.
Buga Yanu Junba: Songs for Young Children is available now, complete with a QR code to stream the accompanying album.
Available online now via the ILF Shop and all good bookstores.
Book details: Buga Yanu Junba Songs for young children by the educators at Baya Gawiy yani Jandu yani u with Gillian Howell and Annika Moses. ISBN: 9781922592729; rrp: $34.99.
Languages: Bunuba, Gooniyandi, Walmajarri, Kimberley Kriol with English translations.
