Kalibamu facts for kids

The Kalibamu people, also called the Kotanda, were an Aboriginal Australian group. They lived in the state of Queensland.

Kalibamu Language

The Kalibamu people spoke a language called Kukatj. It is sometimes called the Kalibamu language. They also used a special sign language to communicate. This sign language helped them share important messages. For example, puffed cheeks meant someone needed water. A fist on the forehead showed a wallaroo was nearby. Stroking the face with open fingers meant a kangaroo. Holding an arm up and bending the hand signaled an emu was close.

Kalibamu Country

The Kalibamu people lived in a large area of about 1,100 square miles (2,850 square kilometers). Their home was along the coast. This area stretched from the Leichhardt River to Morning Inlet. Inland, their land reached places like Wernadinga, Floraville, and Punchbowl.

Daily Life and Food

The Kalibamu people were skilled at finding food. They made a type of bread called damper. This damper was made from grass seeds known as jaboola. Eating emu meat was special. Only older people were allowed to eat it. The last known Kalibamu person passed away by 1963.

Social Groups

The Kalibamu people had different names for family groups. These names helped them understand their social connections. Here are some of the names they used:

Other Names for Kalibamu

The Kalibamu people were also known by another name: Kotanda. This name was sometimes used for the Kareldi people too.

Some Kalibamu Words

Here are a few words from the Kalibamu language:

• ngoora: (tame dog)
• goombeno: (wild dog)
• yabboo: (father)
• younga: (mother)
• mikkaloo: (white man)