Across cultures there are known signs that signal the availability of certain foods, predict the weather or warn people of impending events. In Central Australia the call of the spotted nightjar (Eurostopodus argus) signals the time when dingo pups are born. This article identifies indicator events known by speakers of the Arandic languages in Central Australia. Indicator events can be described as the presence or behavior of a particular species or phenomenon that signals some other species or phenomenon. Arandic people group these into five broad domains: indicators of food, water, weather, danger and news (e.g., an imminent visitor). A diverse range of ecological, meteorological and human (bodily) phenomena serve as indicators, with birds being the most prevalent. This study explores the basis of indicator events, finding both an ecological and cultural basis for many signs. It also draws attention to the significance of the indicator relationship in terms of how people make sense of co-occurring events around them. We also consider some implications for natural resource management and phenology.
This article is based on an interview conducted with four of the central figures in the development and operation of the Arrernte Early Childhood Project. The project works with Aboriginal families in the centre of Australia and is developing culturally appropriate curricula for children aged from three to six years, in the Arrernte language.The project stresses the need to involve grandparents, aunts, uncles and elders in the development of curricula so that the Arrernte culture can stay alive alongside other Australian cultures.
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