Reflections on Welcome to Wadwurrung Country at JYF camp 2026

We had a wonderful Welcome to Wadawurrung Country from Corrina Eccles, a member of the Wadawurrung Corporation. Beginning with the call of the clapsticks, she told us the story of the land known as Kuarka Dorla, fishing place for mullet, and painted a vivid image of the lives of her ancestors there.

This included sharing possum skins and telling us the significance of the growth of a person’s individual possum skin cloak from birth to death, and its use for warmth and as a raincoat. She brought along examples of cultural practices of creating kelp baskets, or string baskets decorated with kelp pieces.

I definitely learned about Wadawurrung ingenuity in knowing their babies could play safely under certain trees because snakes disliked the feeling of the fallen leaves.

She showed us the unique blue ochre found in the region, and described how middens were created from the seafood feasts held near the shore. Corrina brought along some unique tools and explained how they were made, including with pieces obtained by trading greenstone from far away.

The experience was very moving and impactful for everyone there, providing a grounded and respectful start to our time together. Thanks again to the Committee for the funding provided that enabled us to have this opportunity.

By Liz Shield, VRM, parent helper at camp.