Adnyamathanha

The Adnyamathanha ^[1] (Pronounced: /ˈɑːdnjəmʌdənə/) are an Indigenous Australian people from the Flinders Ranges, South Australia. Adnyamathanha is also the name of their traditional language.

On 30 March 2009, the Adnyamathanha people received a consent determination, in the Federal Court of Australia, for recognition of their native title rights over about 41,000 square kilometres (16,000 sq mi) running east from the edge of Lake Torrens, through the northern Flinders Ranges, approaching the South Australian border with New South Wales.

The Adnyamathanha are made up of the Kuyani, Wailpi, Yadliaura, Pilatapa and Pangkala, which are the traditional groups of the Northern Flinders Ranges and (with the Kokatha) the areas around Lake Torrens. The name Adnyamathanha means "rock people" and is a term referring to the Lakes Culture societies living in that area. They share a common identity, which they get from their ancestors, this common bond is their language and culture which is known as Yura Muda. The origins of the Adnyamathanha are told through creation stories, passed down from generation to generation.^[2]

In 1851 the first Europeans settled some of the Adnyamathanha land. This led to many conflicts due to the aboriginal people being pushed off their land. In response to the settling, Aborigines stole sheep, which in turn led to retalitory killings. Aboriginal stockmen and housekeepers soon became a way of life for the early settlers.^[2]

According to his Twitter account, AFL footballer Adam Goodes is an "Andyamathanha/Narungga man".^[3]

See also

• List of Indigenous Australian group names
• Nepabunna, South Australia

Notes