Spelling of Language words in this book

The spoken Aboriginal Languages of Victoria were recorded in writing using the Roman alphabet, as used in English. Therefore Aboriginal language sounds were rendered in many different spellings. And English letters are still used today to describe the sounds of Aboriginal Languages.

Through the process of Aboriginal Language reclamation, many aspects of language including spelling are now undergoing long and complex development processes in Aboriginal communities.

This means that the reader will sometimes find the same words – including language groups and place names – spelt in two or three different ways in the book, since this reflects the various uses of English letters by Aboriginal communities to render the sound of their language.

While the policy in this book has been to reference the VACL Map for the spelling of language groups and place names, other spellings have been included out of respect for authors and community preferences.

NB: Gunditjmara comprises the following language groups – Dhauwurd Wurrung, Wooloowoorroong, Kee woorroong, Koornkopanoot, Peek woorroong, Keerray woorroong, Tyakoort Woorroong and Gadubanud.