Wiradjuri seasons explored in new picture book
The six weather cycles found on Wiradjuri Country are at the heart of a new picture book released by Aboriginal Studies Press.
Written by Wiradjuri language teacher Belinda Bridge and illustrated by Wiradjuri artist Peta-Joy Williams, giwang: Weather and wildlife on Wiradjuri Country is a vibrant celebration of culture, language and environment.
Featuring animals found on Wiradjuri Country, giwang is a visual feast for children aged 3 and up, while its language component offers something for readers of all ages.
Set in the central and south-west regions of New South Wales, the book explores wildlife through the lens of six traditional Wiradjuri weather cycles. Belinda Bridge thoughtfully compares these cycles with the western calendar, offering readers a deeper understanding of Wiradjuri ways of observing, interpreting and engaging with the natural world.
The richly detailed illustrations by Peta-Joy Williams bring the story to life. An experienced muralist and weaver, Williams embraced the challenge of illustrating her first book, incorporating elements from Wiradjuri Country into her artwork.
Sand from Wambuul (Macquarie River) and water from both the river and Goan waterhole near Trangie were mixed into the paint, grounding the illustrations in place and story.
Governed by the phases of the moon, the Wiradjuri cycles reflect what Belinda describes as “rolling movements interrupted and determined by seasonal changes”. These cycles are shaped by weather patterns such as rain, which floods rivers and towns, transforming dry, cracked land into lush greenery.
In giwang, readers discover how these patterns – fire, flood and drought – interact to drive change in the environment, impacting both Wiradjuri People and the animals that live on Country. For example, wugil (hot and windy) may be followed by galing-galing bu niganaga ganhang-girri (wet and hot becoming warm), then ganhang-girri (becoming warm) and back to wugil – a dynamic rhythm of change.
Wildlife illustrations highlight animals likely to be active during each cycle, rendered in Peta-Joy’s deft and detailed style. Her paintings not only depict the animals but also embody the textures and spirit of Wiradjuri Country.
- Published by Aboriginal Studies Press, giwang will be released on November 1. Find it at all good bookstores and through the AIATSIS Shop.
