First Peoples’ Architecture is a chance for attendees to be immersed in a deep cultural experience of architecture and language from the families and elders who have an ancient connection to Coolendel. They will be actively building structures in collaboration with the traditional custodians who themselves built on this same site. Attendees will also be taking part in a Corroboree, Yarning Circles and even a cold plunge in the Shoalhaven.
Dharrawal Yuin Raymond Timbery along with elders Uncle Steve, Uncle PC, Uncle Paul, Aunty Lauren and Aunty Nat will lead attendees through workshops sharing their knowledge as custodians of the Dharawal. Raymond will guide us through a Welcome to Country and an explanation of Coolendel’s local importance as a meeting place and source of food. Each of the Uncles will yarn and introduce the making of gunyas (a traditional home made from wood or bark) and fish traps, with the Aunties leading traditional weaving workshops.