Black Cockatoos: Cultural Significance

Ancestors of the Noongar people gave the name ‘Ngoolark’ to the Carnaby’s black cockatoo, the flocks of which blackened the skies, signifying the start of seasonal rains. Passing on their stories about these spiritual birds and what they meant to the old people and to culture is an important undertaking for Noongar Elders and their families today.

Keep Carnaby’s Flying - Ngoolarks Forever is a science-informed, community-powered project aimed at engaging the community to safeguard the future of our threatened black cockatoos. ‘Cultural Significance’ was prioritised using yarning circles for the sharing of knowledge between Noongar Elders, Researchers, and community leads. Yarning circles supported listening and the sharing of perspectives on the cultural significance of Ngoolarks (Carnaby’s cockatoos) to be expressed and respected.
Noongar Elders spoke of their unique cultural beliefs and meanings around black cockatoos, the “hurt” and frustration of our First Nation’s people when it comes to taking care of our boodjar (country), and the hope that the Keep Carnaby’s Flying - Ngoolarks Forever project is placing back into communities through collaborative efforts and increased awareness of differing perspectives.

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