Gudjal facts for kids
Gudjal traditional lands
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|
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| possibly under 100 (less than 1% of the Australian population, less than 1% of the Aboriginal population) |
|
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Australia (Queensland) |
|
| Languages | |
| English, formerly Warrongo language and Gugu Badhun language | |
| Religion | |
| Aboriginal mythology |
The Gudjal people, also known as the Kutjala, are an Indigenous Australian group from northern Queensland, Australia. They have a rich history and culture.
Contents
Gudjal Language
The Gudjal people spoke a special kind of language called a dialect. It was part of the Warrongo group, which is a bigger language family called Greater Maric.
Sadly, not enough old records of the Gudjal language exist to fully rebuild it. So, as part of a plan to bring the language back to life, they decided to use words and ways of speaking from the Gugu-Badhun language, which is similar and still known.
Traditional Lands of the Gudjal
The Gudjal people's traditional lands covered a large area. It was about 7,500 square miles (which is around 19,400 square kilometers). This land was on both sides of the Great Dividing Range.
Their country included places like Mount Sturgeon and Mount Emu Plains. It also covered the Lolworth and Reedy Springs Stations. The upper part of the Clarke River was also in their territory. The eastern edge of their land was close to the town of Charters Towers.
Gudjal History and European Contact
When European settlers started to arrive, the Gudjal people's lands were taken over. These lands were used for cattle farms. Because of this, the Gudjal people were forced to move south. They moved towards towns like Hughenden and Pentland.
Gudjal Art and Rock Paintings
The Gudjal people were skilled artists. They created amazing rock art galleries. One very clear example of their rock art can be found near Charters Towers.
Other Names for the Gudjal People
The Gudjal people are also known by a few other names:
- Gudjali
- Koochul-bura
Some Gudjal Words
Here are a few words from the Gudjal language:
- younga (mother)
- wurboon (whiteman)
- galbin (children)
