Kungarakany facts for kids
The Kungarakany people, also known as the Koongurrukuñ, are an Aboriginal Australian group from the Northern Territory. Early European settlers called them the "Paperbark People" because of their connection to the land and its resources.
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Kungarakany Country
The traditional lands of the Kungarakany people covered a large area, about 5,180 square kilometers (2,000 square miles). This land included the inland areas northeast of Mount Litchfield. It also stretched around the middle parts of the Reynolds River and where the Adelaide River begins. Their land reached close to Rum Jungle and Batchelor in the northeast. Today, Kungarakany traditional country includes places like Adelaide River, Batchelor, Rum Jungle, the Finniss River, Litchfield Park, and Berry Springs, which is home to the Territory Wildlife Park.
Kungarakany Language
The traditional language of the Kungarakany people is called Kungarakany. It is an important part of their culture and history.
Other Names for the Kungarakany People
The Kungarakany people were known by several names and spellings over time. European settlers often called them the "Paperbark People." Other names and spellings include:
- Gunerakan
- Kangarraga
- Kangarranga
- Warnunger
- Ungnakan
Notable Kungarakany People
Many important people come from the Kungarakany community. Here are a few:
- Kathy Mills: She was the first woman to be part of the Northern Land Council. This council is a group that works to protect the rights and interests of Aboriginal people in the Northern Territory, especially concerning their land.
- Marlon Motlop: He is a talented footballer and musician. His mother is a Kungarakany woman.
- Tom Calma: He is a respected leader and was the Chancellor of the University of Canberra. A Chancellor is a very important leader at a university.
