First Nations people and kangaroos

Australia’s First Nations peoples have a deep and enduring relationship with Country that encompasses the physical, cultural and spiritual aspects of the environment. This relationship extends to the animals with which people share Country and has been maintained over thousands of generations.

Kangaroos, wallaroos and wallabies, collectively known as macropods, are among Australia's most culturally significant native animals, holding an important place in the traditions, knowledge and identities of many First Nations peoples across Queensland. For some First Nations groups, a macropod may be a clan or personal totem, forming an important part of cultural identity and responsibility. Macropods feature prominently in stories and traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Macropods have long been an important source of food and materials. Their meat provided a valuable source of nutrition, while skins were used to make cloaks and other practical items. Bones, teeth and sinews were used to create tools and bindings, ensuring all parts of the animal were used purposefully.

First Nations peoples also maintain rich cultural knowledge about macropods and their place within the landscape. Many sacred places, including waterholes, rock shelters and other significant sites, contain stories and cultural references to kangaroos and wallabies. These animals are closely associated with Country and, through their movements and behaviour, have contributed to generations of ecological knowledge.

Below is an artwork by Abigail Chaloupka depicting three macropod groups and their associated landscapes. Abigail is a contemporary Australian artist with Ballardong Noongar family connections. Born in Darwin to families of artists and musicians, Abigail was encouraged to express herself through art from an early age. Through her work, Abigail explores themes of Country, connection and respect for the natural world.

Left panel – red kangaroo in desert country

This panel depicts an old buck red kangaroo standing watch as a younger female drinks from a waterhole, while two family members hop gracefully across the landscape. Concentric blue circles represent the sacred water site, where nine adults and two children are gathered. Kangaroo tracks leading to and from the waterhole symbolise the shared connection between people, macropods and this important place on Country.

Middle panel – eastern grey kangaroo in grasslands

This panel depicts a mother eastern grey kangaroo with a joey in her pouch and a sibling at foot, while another kangaroo moves across the landscape. Kangaroo tracks and a flowing waterway represent movement through Country. Kangaroo grass flourishes where water is available, while beneath the ground, gems, crystals, minerals and opals form as part of the interconnected landscape.

Right panel – common wallaroo in rock country

This panel depicts a male common wallaroo drinking at a water source, while a female stands atop a rocky outcrop. A petroglyph on the rock face marks a sacred site and honours the enduring tradition of First Nations rock art. Clouds gathering overhead represent the beginning of the water cycle, with water moving across the land and through waterways that sustain Country.