Waitj, Koort-Kaatijin

Sharon Hume

Waitj Moort – The Protective Wisdom of the Emu

On sacred Boodja (Country), beneath the ever-turning skies, the great Waitj (Emu) stands as a guardian of life’s balance. This artwork captures the deep wisdom and shared duty between Yaakiny (Father) and Maaman (Mother), reflecting the harmony of Koort (Heart), Boodja (Land), and Moort (Family).

In the dance of seasons, it is the Yaakiny (Father) who takes on the sacred responsibility of nurturing and protecting the precious djooly (eggs). With quiet strength, he rests upon them, shielding them from harm, listening to the whispers of Marlak (trees) and Makuru (winter rains), waiting for the moment when new life will break through. Maaman (Mother), with the wisdom of her ancestors, moves through the land, gathering and guiding, ensuring that all is as it should be.

Together, they embody the woven balance of the masculine and feminine—one protecting, one providing, both holding the future in their care. Their story is one of patience, strength, and the sacred duty to nurture the next generation upon Boodja (Country). This is the wisdom of Waitj Moort (Emu Family), where heart and land unite in the eternal cycle of life.