Kumangka malturri-apinthi

Description:

The Kumangka malturri-apinthi, pronounced “koo-mung-car mal-doo-ree a-pin-dee,” translates to “Coming Together” in Kaurna language, a sentiment that aligns with the 2024 pageant theme and honours the Kaurna culture. The float was created to be the new permanent Kaurna float for the 2024 National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant on the traditional lands of the Kaurna people in Adelaide, South Australia.

Elements on the float not only have connections to the plants and animals of the land, but connections to Kaurna people. The plants and animals have many stories of the land and are also connected through creation stories, that give Kaurna people their connections to the land.

On the float are also three fires which indicate a traditional Kaurna invitation to come to a place. Kaurna people have always welcomed people to a place. Kaurna people understand the connections of relationships, making friends and sharing knowledge and wisdom.

This float was delivered through the collective efforts of Kaurna Elders: Lewis O’Brien AO, Michael O’Brien and Veena Raymond alongside design and artwork by Paul Herzich, Kari Lindsay and Harley Hall and countless hours of National Pharmacies staff and volunteers. A soundtrack that accompanies the float on pageant day was recorded by Harley Hall, Isaac Hannam and Veena Raymond.