Dhuwala facts for kids

The Dhuwala people are one of the many First Peoples of Australia. They live in the eastern part of Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory. They are also known by names like Duala or Du:ala.

Where Do the Dhuwala Live?

The Dhuwala people have lived in their traditional lands for thousands of years. Their country is in the eastern part of Arnhem Land. This area is in the Northern Territory of Australia.

A researcher named Norman Tindale studied their lands. He noted that the Dhuwala shared their territory with the Dhuwal people. Even though they lived in the same area, they had different languages. They also had unique ways of organizing their families and clans. Their lands stretched from places like Castlereagh Bay to Port Bradshaw. They could also be found as far south as the Koolatong River.

How Are Dhuwala Communities Organized?

The Dhuwala people have a special way of organizing their communities. This system is based on what is called a moiety. A moiety is like a large family group. It helps to decide who can marry whom and how ceremonies are performed.

In many Aboriginal cultures, there are two main moieties. The Dhuwala clans all belong to the Yirritja moiety. This is different from the Dhuwal people, whose clans belong to the Dua moiety. This system helps keep their traditions strong.

The Seven Dhuwala Clans

The Dhuwala people are made up of seven main clans. Each of these clans belongs to the Yirritja moiety. These clans are:

• Kupapuingu
• Kujamirilili (also known as Guyamirrilili or Gwiyamil)
• Gumatj (also known as Gomaidj or Gumadji)
• Manggalili
• Makarwanalmiri (also known as Makarrwanhalmirri)
• Wobulkara (also known as Wulkara or Wobulgarra)
• Madarpa (also known as Mararba or Madarrpa)

Each clan has its own special stories, songs, and lands. These clans work together to keep their culture alive.