Stories Art & Language

As Australia marks Indigenous Literacy Day on 2 September, Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance is proud to celebrate the power of language, storytelling and culture with the launch of two beautiful new Gumbaynggirr language resources for children.

At the heart of the project is Adventures at My Nanny’s House, a delightful children’s counting book written by Dallas Gittins (Gumbaynggirr and Dunghutti) and illustrated by Dakotah Ballangarry (Gumbaynggirr). The book takes young readers on a week of adventures at Nanny’s house, where each day brings new discoveries, native Australian (mostly) animals and opportunities to learn Gumbaynggirr language.

Beginning with Giidanyja (on Monday), children are invited to count the animals they encounter while learning Gumbaynggirr words and pronunciation in a fun, engaging and memorable way. More than a counting book, it is an invitation to explore language through family, storytelling and connection to Country.

“I wanted children to hear and speak Gumbaynggirr in a way that feels natural and joyful,” Dallas says. “Language belongs in our homes, with our families and on Country. Every word carries the stories of our Ancestors, and every child who learns those words helps keep them alive.”

Launching alongside the book is Yarn & Learn: Gumbaynggirr Animal Cards, a companion card pack created by Dallas Gittins and beautifully illustrated by Arkanna Donnelly (Gumbaynggirr).

The card pack features Australian animals, each paired with its Gumbaynggirr name and a QR code to hear the correct pronunciation. Designed for children, families, educators and community groups, the cards encourage interactive learning through games, storytelling and everyday conversations, helping to build confidence with language in a playful and accessible way.

Together, the book and card pack celebrate language as a living part of culture. They encourage children to see, hear and use Gumbaynggirr language while strengthening connection to Country and creating opportunities for families to learn together.

The project is also a celebration of Aboriginal creative collaboration. Dallas storytelling is brought to life through the vibrant illustrations of Dakotah Ballanggarry and Arkanna Donnelly, whose artwork reflects the beauty of Country, native wildlife and the richness of Gumbaynggirr culture.

“When children learn language, they’re building pride, understanding and respect,” Dallas says. “I hope these resources encourage families to read, learn and share Gumbaynggirr language together.”

Launching just days after Indigenous Literacy Day, these resources reflect the shared goal of ensuring every child can experience the joy of reading while celebrating the strength of Aboriginal languages and cultures. They are a reminder that literacy is about more than words on a page—it is about identity, belonging and keeping culture strong for future generations.

Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance invites the community to join the official launch on Saturday 5 September at The Gallery, 6 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour.

Visit saltwaterfreshwater.com.au/whats-on/ for event details and updates. This project is proudly presented by Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance and supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.

Artwork: Dakotah Ballangarry (Gumbaynggirr).