Jigalong and Parnngurr students enjoying the KJ Martu Cup competition

Journeying from Jigalong to Parnngurr to celebrate Elder Muuki Taylor

On Thursday 14 September, 24 Jigalong Remote School students travelled 200 kilometres on the Talawana track to the neighbouring remote community of Parnngurr.

Newly appointed Jigalong Pool Manager, Renee McKie, accompanied Jigalong students, staff and Martu people from nearby communities to Parnngurr Community School to participate in a cultural excursion.

It was a great turnout with a few hundred people sharing experiences and supporting Martu leader, Muuki Taylor as he was presented with the Order of Australia.

Upon accepting the award, Muuki acknowledged it was for everyone highlighting the collective effort and was thankful to all who made it possible.

Muuki has dedicated his life to contributing to the Martu community to keep culture strong and continue to work towards build strong and sustainable communities.

Spirits were high following the ceremony, where the schools battled it out in a range of games and traditional activities including a sack race and spear throwing competition with students taking part in the KJ Martu Cup.

At the conclusion of the games, everyone put their competition differences aside and had a barbeque which had been put together by the Kanyirninpa Jukurrpa rangers.

Participants then danced the night away with the Martu band, Wild Dingo, playing at the event.

Parnngurr Community School generously hosted the Jigalong students and staff to stay the night with Royal Life Saving WA providing bed rolls for everyone.

Everyone needed their fuel the next morning before the long journey back, so a hearty feast was put on - some may say a breakfast of champions!

A great time was had by everyone involved and we know the Jigalong staff and students can't wait for their next visit to Parnngurr.

To learn more about our Remote Pools program, follow the link below.