Our Benny Bungarra’s Big Bush Clean-up story time program reflects our genuine commitment to cultural appreciation, environmental stewardship, and grassroots community connection across the Pilbara.
Delivered in partnership with local libraries, early learning centres and Roebourne Kindilink as trusted community hubs, sessions have reached families across the region from major centres including Karratha, South Hedland and Newman, to remote towns such as Roebourne, Nullagine, Pannawonica, Paraburdoo and Tom Price ensuring our inclusive approach extends to all Pilbara communities.
Each performance begins with a children’s version of the Acknowledgement of Country, complete with words and actions that establish respect for traditional lands and culture. We celebrate Pilbara Palyku authors and illustrators, with the program centred around ‘Benny Bungarra’s Big Bush Clean-up’ children’s book written by Sally Morgan and illustrated by Ambelin Kwaymullina. By placing an authentic Pilbara Traditional Owner voice and perspective at the heart of the program we create genuine cultural connection rather than superficial engagement.
Targeting children during critical developmental years, the program makes environmental education fun and accessible through interactive storytelling, familiar children’s songs adapted with waste themes, and a puppet show featuring four native Pilbara animals affected by litter. By weaving cultural respect with practical environmental education, we are removing barriers and creating inclusive pathways for all community members to participate in Caring for Country.
This entirely in-house program delivered with direct participation across all levels of our organisation is not a temporary program. It reflects our fundamental values and long-term commitment to the communities we serve, building meaningful relationships with families and empowering the next generation to care for the Pilbara environment.
