Dharawal

Imagine a group of super-smart people who lived a long, long time ago near the ocean. These were the Dharawal people! They lived in families, like you do, but their families were called clans.

They were amazing at finding food by the sea and in the forests. They spoke a special language called the Dharawal language, which helped them share stories and learn from each other. They lived in a beautiful part of Australia that is now called New South Wales.

The Dharawal people loved the coast! Their homes were in a beautiful area with beaches and forests, where the cities of Wollongong, Port Kembla, and Nowra are today. Think of it like their own special playground by the sea. They knew all the best spots to find yummy seafood and tasty plants. They were like nature detectives, understanding every tree and every wave.

The Dharawal people were incredible hunters, fishers, and gatherers. This means they were experts at finding food! They knew how to catch fish from the ocean and find delicious berries and roots in the bush. They didn't have supermarkets like we do; they used their cleverness and knowledge of the land to survive and thrive. It’s like they had superpowers for finding food!

The Dharawal language was super important. It was how they talked, sang songs, and told stories. Imagine if everyone in your class spoke a secret code only you understood! This language helped them stay connected as a big family, even if they lived in different family groups. It’s a special part of their history that helps us learn about their amazing culture.