OUR COUMMUNITY AND PEOPLE
Wandjina Woongudd Community
Dambeemangaddee people are part of a wider community group called the Wandjina Woongudd community which includes Wunambal, Gaambera, Ngarinyin and Wordordda. There were three native title determinations to cover all this country – the Wanjina Wunggurr Dambimangari, the Wanjina Wunggurr Wilinggin and the Wanjina Wunggurr Uunguu Determinations. The Dambimangari Determination area is part of this larger cultural community in the West Kimberley from the sea inland to the pastoral country of Ngarinyin Traditional Owners. We all share a unique body of beliefs and cultural practices going back to Lalai, the dreaming, when the creator beings, Wandjina and Woongudd helped shape the earth.
More than 1,500 Aboriginal people make up the Dambimangari community. Most members live in Mowanjum and Derby, but we have also moved as far as Broome, One Arm Point, Port Hedland and Perth. It is difficult for us to access our remote country. Many of our Elders have passed away. Although dislocated from traditional country by government policy and history, we have a clear sense of identity and tradition.
Our People
The term Dambeemangaddee people came from the Native Title process. Dambeemangaddee are part of the Wandjina Woongudd community. Wandjina Woongudd Culture is shared by Ngarinyin, Woddorda, Wunambal and Gaambera people. As the late J Oobagooma explained;
“Dambeema is where you come from, where your Wandjina comes from… Dambeema can be a big place or a small place… Dambemangaddee means all the people from the dambeema. that’s why we called our claim Dambeemangaddee.”
“Dambeema is home. It represents our land. Dambeema is where you come from, where your Wandjina comes from.”
Our People’s Stories
Robyn
Robyn is inspiring visitors to Dambi Country, sharing stories of her country and culture as a Tour Guide.
Stay tuned for Robyn’s story.
