‘Our Mob’ is a celebration of the diversity of Aboriginal culture and especially families in different locations around Australia. The story introduces children and families from these communities engaged in traditional life activities. Some of these included are camping, fishing, painting, cooking damper, throwing boomerangs and playing musical instruments. Throughout, Aboriginal words used in daily life activities appear, such as the words for ‘hello’ and ‘welcome’ along with words for fire and the didgeridoo. Different locations and landscapes feature such as Aboriginal rock art and people living various parts of Australia including Gamilaraay, Yolngu and Taungurung Country. Each double page spread features children, often with adults, engaged in daily life activities. Aboriginal activities such as hunting emus or kangaroos along with contemporary Dreaming stories also feature. Both contemporary and traditional lifestyle activities are described from a child’s perspective.
Illustrations are digitally created and show scenes of camping, fishing and dancing while also featuring the land and animals. The artwork is realistic offering scenes of children interacting with family, animals and their environment. The warm invitation to experience and appreciate an Aboriginal lifestyle ends with an invitation to join the ‘yarning circle’ and enjoy friends and family.
The story is co-authored by Taylor Hampton, who is a Ngiyampaa/Wiradjuri man, and Jacinta Daniher, an early childhood educator. They have two children and created this story together to share their culture and experiences growing up with Aboriginal traditions. Seantelle Walsh is a contemporary Noongar artist. She was born and raised in Boorloo, Perth, Whadjuk Country.
Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander Resource
