Maningrida visitors and residents are learning the local language Kuninjku at free weekly language classes.

The Bininj Kunwok Regional Language Centre funds the language teachers and classes are held every Tuesday from 5:30pm to 6:30pm.

Supported by Bawinanga Aboriginal Corporation, the classes are taught by Bàbbarra Women Centre’s Kuninjku experts, Janet Marawarr, Jennifer Wurrkidj, Raylene Bonson and Deborah Wurrkidj.

Bàbbarra’s Manager, Ingrid Johanson, said more than 300 Bininj people in Maningrida and its outstations speak the Kuninjku language.

“The classes are a lot of fun; it’s a great opportunity to learn some new words and have a laugh” she said.

“Recently we have learned about Arnhem Land seasons and weather, art and design terms, plants, wild foods, cultural and children’s songs, body parts, common verbs and sentence construction.

“This year is the UN Year of Indigenous Language, so we are proud to be playing a small role in this global initiative to celebrate and strengthen Indigenous languages.”Teacher Janet Marawarr said they were proud to teach their kunwok (language).

“At class, sometimes we are talking, and sometimes singing. It’s good fun at Kuninjku class,” Janet said.

Contact: Jo Brosnan 0447 331 191