If you’re feeling the heat, that’s because we are well into the Noongar season of Birak in the Margaret River region. The Wadandi or Saltwater People of the region followed six seasons, and currently we are nearing the end of Birak. The following information was shared with Cape to Cape Explorer Tours’ guides by Wadandi elders and with thanks to the Undalup Association.
Morning offshores and afternoon seabreezes in Birak
Birak showcases Cape to Cape’s flora and fauna
The moisture keeps the morning leaves dripping and grasses damp. With calmer, warmer waters, the larger Djiljit (fish) species come closer, making them easier to Gidji (spear). The flowering Balga (grass tree) tells us the Caabun (groper) are fat and ready to eat. The low tides allow us to collect Kaang-ing (abalone). Koriel (crab) are also plentiful. Wadan (Sea Spirit) has provided us many Djil (crayfish) and Bedi (squid) for Nala Maat (Our Family).
Time of plenty on the Cape to Cape Track
The Ulbernuda (butterflies) are everywhere. And the milky berries on the coast are sweet, juicy and ready to eat. The Mugitj Boonur (banksia tree) flowers are gathered for sweet drinks, tasting like honey, which are fermented and used for gatherings and ceremonies. Birak is also an excellent time for Djilyara (bees). That’s because nectar and gum are being produced by many plants.
Other wildlife to spot during Birak
During Birak, the Koomal (brushtail possum) babies spend time on their own. And Wetj (emu) babies are almost as big as their dads now. Meanwhile, the Kaarak (red tail cockatoo) and Maanitj (white tail cockatoo) are chewing away, dropping Marri Maada (honkey nuts) from the Boonur (trees).
Booking your Cape to Cape adventure
You’ll find out more about the fascinating indigenous history and culture of the region from our guides and drivers when you arrive for your Cape to Cape Track adventure. Book your self-guided adventure on the Cape to Cape Track or walk with our expert guides on our 8-Day Guided End-to-End adventure. And we’ll see you on the Track soon!