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Woi-wurrung · Greater Melbourne, VIC

Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung

Also known as: Wurundjeri

The Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people are the traditional custodians of the land now known as Melbourne and its surrounds. Their country extends from the Great Dividing Range to Port Phillip Bay, centred on the Yarra River (Birrarung), which remains deeply significant to their culture and identity.

Connection to Country

  • The Birrarung (Yarra River) is central to spiritual and cultural life
  • The volcanic plains provided rich hunting grounds
  • Dandenong Ranges held ceremonial significance

Cultural Practices

  • Eel farming using sophisticated aquaculture systems
  • Possum skin cloaks with intricate clan designs
  • Corroboree ceremonies celebrating seasonal changes
  • Use of the Birrarung (Yarra River) as a central cultural and food resource
  • Fire-stick farming to manage the landscape

Further Reading