Kuku Buyunji facts for kids

The Kuku Buyunji (also called Kokobujundji) are an Aboriginal Australian people. They are also known as the Kuku Nyungkal or the Annan River tribe. They live in the state of Queensland, Australia.

Traditional Lands

The Kuku Buyunji people traditionally lived on about 777 square kilometers (300 square miles) of land. This area was mainly around the Annan River in Queensland. Their lands stretched south towards Rossville. To the west, their country reached the area between the Annan and Normanby rivers.

Family Groups (Clans)

Today, the Kuku Buyunji and Kuku Nyungkal people see themselves as a separate group. They are different from the larger Kuku Yalanji people.

An expert named Jon Christopher Anderson studied their history. He suggested that the Upper Annan River area had many family groups. These groups owned specific parts of the Annan River basin. Each group had its own special connection to the land. They also shared a unique language and culture. People from these groups could travel and use resources freely within their lands.

Language

The Kuku Buyunji people spoke the Kuku Nyungkal dialect. This dialect is part of the larger Guugu Yalandji language.

Native Title Rights

Over time, the way of life for the Kuku Nyungkal people changed a lot. This happened after European settlers arrived in their country. New technologies and ways of living affected their culture. Their traditional economic and social systems also changed. Living away from their traditional lands for long periods also brought changes.

In 2007, a big step was taken. The Federal Court officially recognized the native title rights of the Kuku Nyungkal people. This meant their legal connection to their traditional lands and waters was acknowledged. They also gained new rights to use and enjoy some of their original lands along the Annan River. This decision helped to restore their connection to their country.

Other Names

The Kuku Buyunji people are also known by these names:

• Kokonyungal
• Bujundji
• Gugubuyun
• Kokobulanji
• Gugu-bullanji
• Annan River tribe