Djilba is one of the six seasons in the Noongar (Local Indigenous) calendar, which more accurately describes the changes throughout the South West region of Australia, than the European four seasons.
I was introduced to the seasons through a local indigenous artist Shane Hansen (Yondee) who we shot some scenes with for a film about a year ago. His knowledge of the land and connection to it, opened my mind up to the richness of this country's ancestry and since then, I've felt compelled to share the knowledge I've learned to help preserve the culture, so that we don't loose such an important piece of history and wisdom that is right here in our backyard.
DJILBA
Djilba season begins as we emerge out of the wet season in August and September. Signs of change can be seen from the emergence of yellow and cream flowers followed by vibrant blues and purples from native shrubs and grasses.
Djilba is the first spring, beginning the longer, sunnier days with occasional rain. As the clearer skies brings sunnier days, it also brings colder days and nights as less clouds blanket the land. New life begins to emerge; flowers blossom, native bees can be seen foraging and animals become more active.
Birds nesting, are now busily feeding their new hatchlings. The Djidi Djidi (Willy Wag Tail) and the Koolbardi (Magpies) can be seen busily foraging for food and protecting their nests. This is also Magpie season, when they tend to swoop.
As temperatures warm, vibrant colours fill the land. The Kurulbrang (The Kangaroo Paw) flower begin to sprout and open, showing off its striking reds, yellows, oranges and greens: meaning, warmer days are ahead. These unique flowers were also foraged by traditional people for their rhizomes which contain a rich source of starches.
As the season progresses into late September, more and more flowers bloom and the South West explodes to life with vibrancy as it transitions into the Kambarang season (The second spring and wildflower season).
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