Listening to the Far North Queensland Indigenous Voices

Very much part of the ‘Listening to the Indigenous Voice’ visits, members of the RAP Project Team scheduled to spend time in the communities of Far north Queensland, in particular Cairns, Cooktown, Hope Vale and surrounding communities.

Timing the visit to coincide with the Muni Day Celebrations (Sep 2018), Tricia Davis and Marilyn Wall spent several days amongst the peoples of Hope Vale. Walking and talking with many of the local community members, much was learned of the early history of the settlement and its journey to the community it has become today. The influence of the early Lutheran missionaries featured often in the conversations. Strong advocacy on behalf of the early Lutheran missionaries, particularly in relation to Governmental policies of the day and other global events led to the development over time, of strong and sustained relationships, paving the way for the journey towards self-determination for the peoples of Cape York communities.

Guugu Yimithirr is the language of the Hope Vale people in particular the Dhuppi Warra clan group, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the town of Hope Vale is built. This is where the early Lutheran Missionaries began their work of sharing the Gospel. Today this includes Hope Vale, Wujal Wujal, Coen and their neighbouring communities. This ancient language continues to be passed down through the generations and is used in the sharing of the Gospel. The traditional language of the community of Wujal Wujal is Guugu Yalanji. The Coen region has 5 different language groups to whom our church ministers at this current time.

Hope Vale is also the home of Pastor George Rosendale. It was a privilege to spend time with Pastor George and for him to reflect on the ministry amongst his peoples and the importance of reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians.

For further information on the Muni Day celebrations visit the LCAQLD website.