Description
This dhupun (memorial pole) depicts Ŋaliya is a sacred oceanic rock that stands in gapu moṉuk (a point at which dirty and clean water come together) on Mariŋa clan estates at the approximate intersection of brother and sister clans Gamaḻaŋga and Gorryindi country. This is roughly between Murruŋga and Gurriba islands in the Northern Crocodile Islands group. Ŋaliya is penetrated by two distinct holes, where fish named bithak swim and maṉba (snub nosed dolphins) play.
Ŋaliya represents the Marratjirri (morning star pole), a feathered ceremonial pole made of nany’burrurr (feathered string), darpa (wood) and ochre. The footprints of the mulunda, a small sea bird, is painted on the ends of the nany’burrurr string which is connected to the Ŋaliya site by ceremonial riŋgitj (can alliances).
When cyclones approach this country Ŋaliya stands above the water and directs the cyclone away from Mariŋa clan estates, protecting them from harm.
