Ngarrikwujeyinama from Milyakburra by Emily Wurramara

This song was written in response to the mining on Groote Eylandt, and in particular the battle fought by the community, which saw the NT government place a total ban on seabed mining around Groote Eylandt in 2013, respecting the concerns of traditional owners about the destruction of the seabed and cultural songlines. I’m passionate about protecting this earth and everything living on it. Ngardegujenama talks about we all come from the sea and how it’s our duty to protect and cherish her, and the pain we cause when we don’t. The song is an anthem and a reminder to care for this beautiful country. We are also caretakers of the sea.

Emily Wurramara is a young Aboriginal woman who has been writing songs since she was 6, singing in both English and Annandilyakwa, the traditional language of her home, Groote Eylandt. She is a prolific song-writer and multi-instrumentalist, playing guitar, piano and ukulele.

emilywurramara.com.au