We are now in Birak: the “Season of the Young”

By Noongar Kaartdijin Aboriginal Corporation

FOR THOUSANDS of years, Noongar people lived in tune with the land, guided by the six Bonar (Seasons), which span from season of fertility to season of adulthood.

These seasons – Makuru, Djilba, Kambarang, Birak, Bunuru, and Djeran – guided Noongar families in their seasonal movements, food sourcing, and stewardship of the land and each season offers unique insights into life and survival on Country.

As we approach summer, we enter Birak, the ‘Season of the Young’. Birak marked a time of transformation and crucial land management practices, like controlled burns which helped care for the land and ensured its health.

Birak – The Season of the Young (December/January) Colour Symbolism: Red and brown
symbolise Birak, reflecting the warm tones of the drying earth at the start of summer in
the Noongar cycle.

These colours are tied to the season’s Kaarla (fire) practices, which renew the land
and sustain its health.

Nature thriving and new beginnings: Birakbrings warmth as the Boorong (rains) ease
and the land begins to dry out.

In some years, monsoon rains from the north provide relief, accompanied by cooler
afternoon breezes.

Young Djirda (birds) and animals, including Kooya (frogs) and reptiles, thrive with
fledglings leaving their nests and reptiles shedding their skins.

Known as Kaarla season it was a time for land management like controlled burning.

Mosaic Burning and Land Management: Shifting winds from east to west signalled
the start of Mosaic Burning, a practice that cleared undergrowth, reduced fire
hazards, and created open spaces for Yonga (Kangaroos) and other wildlife.

The burns also exposed animals, enabling hunting practices that included gathering
burnt lizards and snakes.

During Birak, Noongar hunters targeted Yoorn (Bobtails), Noorn (snakes), and small
marsupials like Kwenda (Bandicoots), using Dowak (hunting sticks), Gidjee (spears), and
Kylie (boomerangs).

Life by the Water
As temperatures rose, families made Karlerl (camps) near permanent water sources,
where Djildjit (fish) were caught and eaten.

These camps served as hubs for cultural learning, family gatherings and storytelling.

Families also caught fledgling Moyitj (pigeons) and collected bush foods like
Djirap (Kangaroo Grass).

Seeds were harvested and dried then ground with a Muller (grinding stone) and
baked over coals for sustenance.

Passing on Knowledge
Birak was a time for Elders to teach younger generations survival skills and demonstrate
traditional practices.

Families used natural materials like Koomal (Possum) fur for belts and Balga
(Grass Tree) stems for shelter support.

Dry stems served as fire sticks, while a mix of resin, charcoal and kangaroo dung created
glue for tools.

These practices strengthened family bonds, preserved cultural traditions, and prepared
communities for Bunuru – the hottest season, where resilience was key.

Sadly, much of this way of life was disrupted by colonisation, which dispossessed Noongar
people of their land and prevented the continuation of many vital cultural practices.

However, the wisdom of Birak lives on, reminding us of the deep knowledge
Noongar people hold about their Country.

We look forward to continuing to share the richness of Noongar culture with you
in 2025, a year that also marks the official launch of the Noongar Trail.

The trail is a gift to the Toodyay community, celebrating this ancient land and providing
a step for Noongar people to proudly share their voice.

Our corporation chairman Robert Miles wishes you all a peaceful and joyful festive
season and a Happy New Year.