The aboriginal people of Australia are currently only 2.7% of the total population, but at one time, they were the only people to inhabit this continent. In fact, the term ‘aboriginal’ was created by the British and used to categorize the group of people indigenous to Australia. The aboriginal people have called the ancient lands of Australia home for thousands of years prior to the British, and have a way of life of their own.
The people indigenous to Australia have a unique and mysterious culture to many, and a huge part of that has to do with the legend of the Wandjina. For many outsiders of this culture, the imagery of the Wandjina are extremely intriguing, because to some—they resemble the modern day alien image that has flooded out media outlets and film industries. The images hold sacred and intimate value for some of the ancient aboriginal people who reside in the areas surrounding them.
Detailed paintings have been found all over the natural and untouched portions of Australia, as well as ceremonial artifacts, and even shields; but the true story of these beings has been passed down generation, after generation by spiritual aboriginals committed to keeping their culture alive. Although this story should really be told by someone within the aboriginal community, I will do my best to share the knowledge I have acquired studying this fascinating and truly unique culture.
There are artifacts and then there are legends, and to the aboriginal people of the Kimberley region in Australia, the story of the Wandjina has been passed down through both. This story is so intriguing it’ll have you pondering the origins of life itself, and ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what you believe. Continue to the next page to read the mysterious story of the Wandjina.