The Indigenous Starwheel, first published in 1996 to celebrate NAIDOC Week, is the result of intercultural collaboration and a shared love of astronomy between Gapingaru Naputa, Indigenous Elder of the Woorabinda Nation, and non-Indigenous astronomer and founder of the NSW Astronomical Society, Gordon Patston. The resource also shows collaboration between members of other Indigenous Nations - The cover artwork was designed by indigenous artist Kylie Russell of the Gamilaroi People, and the stories are accompanied on didgeridoo and clapsticks by Sam Kerr, indigenous musician of the Wamba Wamba Djadjawurrng People.

Elders of the Woorabinda Nation have provided permission for Gapingaru’s voice to be used in this recording in order to preserve and share their culture and his work. Gapingaru Naputa received permission from the Indigenous Nations whose stories appear in this publication.

This resource is illustrative of Indigenous astronomical stories across Australia and is not representative of all stories. 

FEATURES:

 - A planisphere (sky map) of the Southern Hemisphere. Constellations are illustrated as Sky Figures as perceived by a range of Indigenous Nations across Australia. The Starwheel can be oriented to any month of the year and there are instructions as to how to find the Sky Figures in the night sky.

 - Indigenous Stories - The text of each of the stories which appear on the planisphere, with acknowledgement of their origins; and

 - A link to a recording of each story, told by Gapingaru Naputa, Indigenous Elder of the Woorabinda People, accompanied on didgeridoo and clapsticks by Sam Kerr, Indigenous Musician of the Wamba Wamba Djadjawurrng People.

  - Glow-in-the-dark Sky Figures, to aid with night-time observation and water-resistant card.

 - The Starwheel is sized to fit in a small backpack.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are warned that this document contains images, voices and music of deceased persons.

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