My People's Dreaming

Max Dulumunmun Harrison, or Uncle Max as he is widely known, is an Elder of the Yuin people, who lived throughout the south coast of New South Wales. He has been sharing his cultural knowledge for over 30 years and has taken over 6000 people from all walks of life onto country, explaining Aboriginal ways and the intricate understandings of the environment.

My People’s Dreaming is a rare, personal insight into traditional Yuin teachings, and is drawn from extensive interviews with Uncle Max.

Through stunning photos and words, Uncle Max reveals the significance of the Creation Dreaming (the story of his people’s creation), bush lore, foods, ways of healing, laws, punishment and spirituality. He also details the subtleties and connectedness of his people’s relationship to the land, as well as outlining his philosophy of forgiveness.

In passing on his traditional knowledge Uncle Max focuses on three truths:

See the land … the beauty; Hear the land ... the story; Feel the land … the spirit.

‘The teachings I reveal in this book are the living treasures of my life.’ Max Dulumunmun Harrison

‘Max Dulumunmun Harrison’s book is a powerful and beautiful explanation of the strength of an Aboriginal way of life and the beliefs inherited by men like him. If his wisdom and guidance were followed, young Aboriginal people would find their path through life, if not easier, then at least happier. The purpose of these teachings is revealed at the end of the book, and it is moving and shocking to come to realise, as Max would want, that his wisdom is hard won from life. The exquisite photography of Yuin country by Peter McConchie brings Max’s word pictures to life with images of places that are truly inspiring.’ Professor Marcia Langton, Chair of Australian Indigenous Studies, University of Melbourne, and co-author of First Australians