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The term ‘Country’ in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures is distinctly different to non-Indigenous perceptions of the word. ‘Country’ is often used by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to describe family origins and associations with particular parts of Australia. More specifically, it refers to cultural connections with the land, including its people, culture and nature. These cultures believe that these components of life are indisputably linked and differ from individual to individual, depending on associations passed down through family and community. Furthermore, ‘Country’ embraces the stories of ancestors and creation spirits. It is therefore believed to refer to both a place of belonging and a way of believing.

Connecting To Country

Connections with Country differ across societies. This is due to the diverse nature of the Australian landscape. With over 700 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, each with their own language and defined area of land, the diversity of relationships that these Indigenous communities have with Country is apparent. 

The ways in which one connects to Country is determined by how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities use plants, animals and other natural materials in their day to day lives. These resources meet basic human needs including access to food, materials to build shelter, make clothes and formulate medicines. Additionally, these parts of Country are used to create tools, weapons, art and even ceremonial objects. Therefore the ability of Country to provide resources for not only survival, but spiritual and religious practices, deeply connects people with the land.

The strength of the Watarrka region’s connection to Country is a testament to the rich and deeply rooted culture of it’s Aboriginal people. The Watarrka Foundation is committed to helping support this thriving, independent and self-reliant Aboriginal community living on their ancestral land.

To support the Foundation and our future projects within the Northern Territory, make a donation at www.givenow.com.au/watarrkafoundation