Barunggam language facts for kids

The Barunggam language (also known as Murrumningama) was an Aboriginal language from Queensland, Australia. It was spoken by the Barunggam people. Today, it is considered an extinct language, meaning it is no longer spoken by anyone as their native language.

What Was Barunggam Language?

The Barunggam language was part of the large Pama–Nyungan language family, which includes many Aboriginal languages across Australia. More specifically, it belonged to a smaller group called the Waka–Kabic languages. Some experts, like Kite and Wurm, even thought Barunggam might have been a special type, or dialect, of the Wakka Wakka language. This means it was very similar to Wakka Wakka, but with some differences.

Language Connections

The Barunggam language shared many words with languages spoken by nearby Aboriginal groups. For example, it had words in common with:

• Jarowair language to the east
• Wakka Wakka language to the north
• Mandandanji language to the west

These shared words show how different Aboriginal groups interacted and traded with each other across their lands.

Traditional Barunggam Lands

The Barunggam people lived in a specific area of Queensland where their language was spoken. A famous researcher named Norman Tindale described their traditional lands. He said their country was located:

• Around the headwaters of the Condamine River, east of a place called Jackson.
• Stretching north towards Charley Creek and the Dividing Ranges.
• Going west to areas like Wongorgera and Woleebee.
• Extending south to Tara.
• Including towns like Chinchilla and Jandowae.

Their land was known for its red soil, found south and west of the Dividing Range. This area was important for the Barunggam people's culture and way of life.

Map of traditional lands of Aboriginal peoples around Brisbane, showing the Barunggam area.

Images for kids

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  Map of traditional lands of Aboriginal peoples around Brisbane, showing the Barunggam area.