Taungurung Children’s Books being distributed by Council

Published on 30 August 2022

Two newly released children’s books by Taungurung authors have been purchased by Mansfield Shire Council and have been distributed across the community as part of Council’s NAIDOC Week initiative.

The two books include ‘Bijil Ba Wudhi Deberra’ by Aunty Loraine Padgham, a Taungurung story in Taungurung language with English translation, and ‘An Important Message from Mr Beaky’ by Cassie Leatham and Sue Lawson, which is a story about what it means to be an Aboriginal person in Australia.

Gadhaba Local Aboriginal Network Chair Miranda Connaughton was thrilled to deliver the Taungurung books and said it was great to be able to deliver these two new Children’s Books by Taungurung Authors to our schools, childcare centres and Library.

“It is so important for the kids to experience these stories and connections to the area from a young age. Plus seeing them laugh, smile and be enthralled by the stories is always a bonus,” she said.

Mayor Cr James Tehan said Council was pleased to be able to supply the books.

“Strengthening awareness of Taungurung language is very important. Council is grateful to be working closely with Taungurung people to ensure these books reach schools and children’s groups in our area,” said Cr Tehan.

“Hearing the language and understanding how Taungurung stories form the fabric of our community is critical for all ages and this initiative creates a place for these Indigenous stories for our youngest community members to read and understand at an early age.”

Copies will be distributed to the following schools and centres: 

• Mansfield Primary School
• Mansfield Steiner School
• Merrijig Primary School
• Cubby Huse
• Mansfield Library
• St Marys Primary School
• Jamieson Primary School
• Farmhouse
• Gadhaba

The Visitor Information Centre in Mansfield also has copies for purchase.

Picture: Farmhouse delivery of books photographed by Kim Stoney (Pictured L-R: Gadhaba Chair Miranda Connaughton, Levi Lindsay, Educator Suzie Roberts, Liam Zoric)