The Banyan Tree, the totem for our business.

The Murrungun/Djinang clan from Miwimbi in the Northern Territory are custodians of the banumbirr ceremony, or morning star story. This tribal story or song cycle contains many layers of information about life, death and regeneration, as well as information about hunting, the seasons and marriage. In 1995, under the guidance of the late Terry Gandadila, the ceremonial leader of the Murrungun/Djinang clan and the son of the artist Jack Wunuwun, this tribal story was recorded for the first time, in a book called The morning star series / paintings by Jack Wunuwun ; commentary by Terry Gandadila.

In recognition of Cecille Weldon’s work in faithfully recording and publishing his tribal story, Terry gave Cecille the totem Djanpa (meaning Banyan Tree in the Murrungun language), for her business. He said “your business will have strong roots and bare lots of fruit”. The Banyan Tree is an important shade tree, providing cool relief from the heat of the day. The particular species referred to in this indigenous song-line from the Northern territory is Ficus Virens, pictured below. Image: Cecille Weldon