Bamaga’s language strengthening story

As every language speaker knows, you can never be too young to learn a language.

That was the thinking behind the Bamagau Kazil Language Program, which immersed young children in the remote Far North Queensland community of Bamaga in the Kalaw Kawaw Ya language.

Bamagau Kazil Torres Strait Islanders Corporation received a 2025 Queensland Government Indigenous Languages Grant which they used to capture the imagination of Bamaga’s little ones.

Their initiative used songs, dance, storytelling and everyday conversations with Elders to help young children connect with language and culture.

Ama Lala Day Care and the Ama Aukia Activity Centre delivered the program that brought together children, educators, families and Elders in a community-led effort to strengthen language use and cultural knowledge.

Language as part of daily life

Over 30 language sessions were held and children learned Kalaw Kawaw Ya through interactive activities designed to make language a part of everyday life.

Torres Strait Islander women directors, language owners and local cultural knowledge holders guided the program, enabling children to learn directly from community members while building confidence and cultural pride.

Age-appropriate learning resources were developed, a qualified linguist was engaged, and educators participated in two professional development sessions to help embed language and culture into daily learning.

The feedback about the program was positive with the benefits being felt beyond the classroom walls.  Families became more engaged, educators gained practical skills to continue cultural learning, and children enthusiastically embraced activities involving music, movement and storytelling.

Bamagau Kazil Board Secretary Harriett Phineasa said the program has strengthened connections between language, culture and community.

“The Indigenous Languages Grant has helped Bamagau Kazil bring our language to life for children in Bamaga through songs, stories and everyday learning,” Harriett says.

“It has created opportunities for Elders to share their knowledge, strengthened our educators’ confidence and helped our children build pride in who they are.

“Keeping our language strong keeps our culture and community connections strong for future generations.”

The program finished with a community celebration where children performed cultural songs and dances for families and community members, showcasing their learning while highlighting the important role language plays in preserving culture and belonging across generations.

More information

Applications are now open for the 2027 Indigenous Languages Grants Program, which aims to increase the number and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages spoken in Queensland in partnerships with Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Applications close 8am AEST on 7 December 2026.

For more information, including eligibility criteria and application details, visit www.qld.gov.au/ilg.