JAWOYN MEN AND WOMEN WALK THE JATBULA TRAIL

Nitmiluk National Park, - July 2024 Jawoyn Association recently supported separate groups of Jawoyn men and women on the 62-kilometre Jatbula Trail, fostering a profound connection to their heritage and land.

Women’s Walk: Healing and Connection

13 women, including Banatjarl Wimun Elders and younger participants, embarked on the trail. This endeavor, a collaboration with Banatjarl Wimun Grup, Jawoyn Ngalmuka Rangers, National Parks and Wildlife, and volunteers, aimed to support and connect with the country. Chairperson Lisa Mumbin emphasised the journey's significance in supporting each other and connecting with their ancestors. Known as the "Trail Blazers" since their inaugural walk in 2016, the women underscored the importance of these annual walks. Elder Joanne Berry and other participants highlighted the spiritual and healing aspects of the walk, emphasising resilience,

13 women, including Banatjarl Wimun Elders and younger participants, embarked on the trail. This endeavor, a collaboration with Banatjarl Wimun Grup, Jawoyn Ngalmuka Rangers, National Parks and Wildlife, and volunteers, aimed to support and connect with the country. Chairperson Lisa Mumbin emphasised the journey's significance in supporting each other and connecting with their ancestors. Known as the "Trail Blazers" since their inaugural walk in 2016, the women underscored the importance of these annual walks. Elder Joanne Berry and other participants highlighted the spiritual and healing aspects of the walk, emphasising resilience,

Men’s Walk: Perseverance and Unity

Similarly, 14 Jawoyn men, including Jawoyn Rangers and Traditional Owners, undertook the trail with vehicle support up to 17 Mile Creek. Seven men continued unsupported to Edith Falls, navigating rugged terrain with heavy backpacks and dehydrated meals. Lazarus Manballoo reflected on the journey, emphasizing the vision of connecting men to the country and walking in their Elders' footsteps. This walk, the first in nearly a decade for a Jawoyn group, marked the beginning of renewed efforts to reconnect with ancestral lands. Future ventures are planned to strengthen cultural ties.

Thanks are extended to Nitmiluk Tours, Jawoyn Rangers, NT National Parks and Wildlife, and our volunteers. For more information or to get involved in future walks and programs, please contact us.