The endangered Wardaman language, a vital thread of Northern Territory heritage, shone brightly at the launch of Batchelor Press’s latest release, Galapin Jack’s & Other Wardaman Stories, held in Katherine on 25 March 2025. This captivating book, featuring six powerful Indigenous tales, marked another milestone in preserving Wardaman culture, following the success of Bornorron Warrag (Catfish Brolga) in 2023.
A Collaboration of Wardaman Talent
The project brought together Wardaman author Sally Wiynmarr and her nephew, illustrator Bill Harney Jnr, alongside linguist Francesca Merlan, who has documented the language since the 1970s. Contributions from Bill Harney Snr and the late Elsie Raymond, a cherished figure in both the Wardaman and Katherine communities, enriched the collection. Elsie, alongside her late husband Kaiser Bill Raymond, left a lasting legacy celebrated through her storytelling.
Stories That Echoed History
Galapin Jack’s & Other Wardaman Stories offered a vivid glimpse into Wardaman culture and NT frontier life. Elsie Raymond’s title story, "Galapin Jack’s," told of a wrongful spearing that provoked the wrath of two Rainbow Serpents rising from the Katherine River—a gripping fusion of tradition and drama. Bill Harney Snr’s "Escape" recounted his bold evasion of Welfare authorities targeting mixed-race children, capturing a raw slice of NT history. Sally Wiynmarr’s three tales—"Munballoo," "Pulling Punkah," and "Nyamuruj"—wove vibrant accounts of cattle station life and a moving reunion with a sister she never knew.
Recorded by Francesca Merlan over decades, from the late 1980s to today, these stories preserved personal and historical moments in Wardaman language, with some Kriol, alongside English translations. Each tale included a QR code linking to original audio recordings, immersing readers in the voices of the storytellers.
Why Wardaman Language Matters
Sally Wiynmarr, also the author of Bornorron Warrag, viewed the book as a lifeline for her heritage. “It’s important to pass on these stories in Wardaman language,” she said, underscoring the urgency of safeguarding an endangered tongue. For Merlan, the experience was profound. “Many thanks to Wardaman seniors past and present for sharing their lives and history,” she said. “It’s been a privilege to record their language, and I hope the next generation builds on these resources with their own stories.”
A Milestone for Indigenous Storytelling
Supported by the Endangered Languages Documentation Programme in Berlin, Galapin Jack’s & Other Wardaman Stories stood as more than a book—it became a cultural bridge. The launch, hosted by Jacinta Mooney at Katherine Regional Arts in Katherine with catering from the Northern Land Council, took place on 25 March 2025, drawing community members to celebrate this achievement.
Reliving the Celebration
The Katherine book launch honoured Wardaman culture and shared Indigenous stories that resonate across generations. For more information about Galapin Jack’s & Other Wardaman Stories or to explore Batchelor Press’s work, contact Maurice O’Riordan, Batchelor Press Manager, at maurice.o'riordan@batchelor.edu.au.
