Angkamuthi Homeland
Our Country
Spanning the regions of Bamaga, Injinoo, Seisha, and Umagico, our homeland is woven together by seven rivers, each with its own unique flow and story.
Where Land Meets Sea
THe Land of Our Ancestors
From tidal estuaries where saltwater mingles with freshwater, to mangrove-lined creeks teeming with marine life, these waterways have sustained our people for generations.
The land and sea unite here, forming a dynamic environment where our cultural practices have thrived for countless ages.
The Spirit of Place
For the Angkamuthi people, country is more than just a physical landscape—it is a living presence infused with ancestral wisdom.
Our Elders speak of sacred sites where the spirits of our ancestors dwell, and of knowledge passed down through oral tradition that guides our relationship with the land and sea. Ceremonies, songlines, and dance keep us connected to these sacred places, ensuring that each generation understands its role as a custodian of Angkamuthi country.
Sacred Waters & Sacred Knowledge
Our rivers and their tributaries connect us not only to each other, but also to our history and the responsibilities we carry forward. Whether it’s gathering bush foods along the banks, fishing in the estuaries, or performing ceremonies at significant waterholes, every interaction affirms our bond with these waters.
We learn from our environment, observing seasonal changes and the interplay between land and sea to sustain both culture and community.
Historical Background
Historically, Angkamuthi people lived around the Skardon River area but moved throughout lands from Peak Point to Port Musgrave. Post-European contact, explorers and gold fossickers pushed many Angkamuthi families further north, eventually resettling in Cowal Creek (later renamed Injinoo in 1988). Today, we share ancestral links with other Northern Cape York groups, reflecting our resilience and adaptability in preserving Angkamuthi identity.
Preserving the Future
Today, our mob blend age-old knowledge with contemporary conservation methods to protect our country. From working closely with Elders to document traditional ecological wisdom, to partnering with environmental agencies for sustainable land and sea management, we remain committed to preserving the integrity of Angkamuthi country. Our hope is that future generations will inherit not just the land, but also the stories, customs, and sense of identity that define us as the Angkamuthi people.
Restricted and Significant Sites
Some areas of our homeland—such as Big Footprint Swamp, Lunette Swamp, or certain shell middens—are culturally significant and may be off-limits without permission from Elders. Additionally, during periods of ‘Sorry Business,’ parts of Angkamuthi country might be temporarily closed to honor mourning traditions. We kindly ask all visitors and partners to respect these protocols in consultation with local custodians.
The Seven Rivers
The interactive map shows the location of the seven significant waterways on Seven Rivers Country:
- Thayanhaku (Jardine) River.
- Crystal Creek.
- Doughboy River.
- Macdonald River.
- Jackson River.
- Skardon River.
- Ducie River.
