Miriwoong Language Nest

日本語 (Japanese)

“The children are now teaching their parents, grandparents and guardians new Miriwoong words!”

The Miriwoong Language Nest began as a pilot program based on a model developed by the Maori in New Zealand in 2013, before being rolled out formally in 2014. The program creates an immersive environment and uses immersion techniques to enable young children to learn Miriwoong and exposes them to new language experiences. The Language Nest at MDWg is one of the first to operate for Indigenous languages in Australia.

Since 2014, the program has continued to grow. Over 500 children per week are taught at all daycares and primary schools in Kununurra.

The Nest program aims to increase both the knowledge and use of Miriwoong in the community. Since young children are at the optimal age for language learning, we have high hopes of making a difference in the preservation of Miriwoong. By participating in this program, children will also develop a stronger cultural awareness and pride, improve their self–esteem, and increase their prospects of better learning in the standard school environment.

“[The program] is extremely important as it teaches children about Miriwoong culture which increases cultural understanding and respect for Indigenous culture.”

Supporters of the language nest program

The Miriwoong Language Nest works in partnership with various organisations in and around Kununurra, including:

  • St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School
  • East Kimberley College
  • Woothoo-woothoong thoon Ninggoowoong Dawang (One Tree Early Learning Centre)
  • Ewin Early Learning Centre
  • Wunan Kununurra Children and Parent Centre
  • Stepping Stones Kununurra
  • Wunan Gardim-banjelng Badang Yarrawoo Menewoolbtha

“This program is building cultural understanding and respect for Miriwoong people and language amongst all students. I believe that over time this program will build confidence and self-respect for Indigenous children involved. The Language Workers are fantastic and they bring high-quality resources and games to play with the children. I can’t commend them enough for the amazing work they are doing to teach children Miriwoong.”

We are grateful to both Lotterywest and the Indigenous Languages Support program for providing valuable start-up funding for the Miriwoong Language Nest.