RMA23 delegates can show support to the muwinina and palawa peoples by taking the opportunity to learn more about the Aboriginal history and culture of nipaluna (Hobart) and lutruwita (Tasmania) as a whole, before attending conference. Below are just a couple of informative cultural education resources available to you:
- The Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre
- Discover Tasmania
One significant way you can show respect and support is to learn and use the local language, palawa kani, where possible and appropriate during your stay. With thanks to the support from the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre, why not embrace a few key words to get you started!
- nipaluna (nip-ah-loo-nah)
Traditional name for the land where the city of Hobart is now located - lutruwita (loo-true-wee-ta)
Traditional name for the island of Tasmania - Muwinina Country (Moo-we-nin-ah)
Traditional clan/owners of nipaluna - palawa (pah-lah-wah)
Collective name for Tasmanian Aboriginal People - palawa kani (pah-lah-wah kah-nee)
Name for the traditional language of the palawa people - ya
Traditional palawa kani greeting - pulingina (pu-lin-geena)
Welcome - kunanyi (koo-nahn-yee)
Mount Wellington - kanaplila (kah-nah-plee-lah)
To dance and sing - prupilathina (pru-pee-lah-dthee-nah)
Wombat (keep an eye out for these native creatures during your trip!)
Note: You can reference the policy and protocol for use of palawa kani language here. The RMA23 conference team will continue to liaise with the palawa people to implement palawa kani language throughout the event.