Ngulu Marga Yulga Uriny - Games Trail

Koabangan

Background

A game called koabangan was a finding-object game observed being played in the early 1900s by the Kokominni boys of North Queensland. The object commonly used was a goanna claw, but other objects were also used.

Short description

A player hides an object in a designated area and the other players attempt to find it.

Players

• A group of four or more players

Playing area

• A designated outdoor area suitable for the activity

Equipment

• An object such as a tennis ball or a paper clip for a goanna claw
• A number of short bushy trees are required. If this is not suitable then other areas can be used to hide the object

Game play and basic rules

• The players sit in a circle with their heads low and hands over their faces. One player hides the object somewhere in the playing area.
• On a signal being given by the ‘hider’ the players jump up and start looking for the hidden object. The idea is to be the first to find the object within a set time.
• The player finding the object has the next turn.

Variations

• Use a number of different objects.
• Restrict the size of the playing area.
• Players are blindfolded.
• Play in an indoor hall or similar using a tennis ball to hide.

Comment

This game is suggested for younger children.

Teaching points

• Close your eyes. Hide the marble.
• Keep looking.
• Find it. Are we ‘hot’ or ‘cold’?
• Well done. Change over and we start again.

Edor

Background

This version of a chasing-and-tagging game originates in the Aurukun Aboriginal community and has been popular and played for as long as most can remember.

This game has been frequently played around the streets, in the school at break time and before physical education lessons as a fun warm-up activity.

The enthusiasm and vigour that the players display (all the while conversing freely in the local language of Wik-Mungkan) is a joy to watch and a clear indication of the vibrant strength of the traditional culture still evident in this community today.

The game was observed by Troy Meston and is presented on the authority of Aunty Cathy (local Elder and Aurukun Community School Teacher’s Aide). Edor has been played since she was a child and well before.

Language

The names edor, idor, ida or ‘the running game’ have all been used to refer to this game. The term edor has been commonly used in the North Queensland and Torres Strait regions.

Short description

Edor is a goal-orientated, chasing-and-tagging game for a large group of players.

Players

• A large group of players can play. Players are divided into two teams.

Playing area

• A football field or other open area suitable to the activity

Equipment

• Assign ‘goals’ at opposite ends of the playing area by using a large tree or other structure.

Game play and basic rules

• Players assemble in the middle of the playing area. All the organisation and discussion related to the game is left to the players. Players decide on the teams, the goals, the direction in which teams will run and who will start. A player is selected as the Edor and this player is given five seconds before he or she takes off, running towards the goal.
• A player who is the Edor attempts to reach his or her designated goal at the end of the playing field. The player attempts to do this without being tagged (touched) by a player from the opposing team. To become the Edor a player of the defending team tags the player who was the Edor. This player then runs towards his or her designated goal at the other end of the playing area. The direction of the game changes each
  time a tag is made on the Edor.
• The game continues until a player is successfully able to reach the goal. When a player reaches the goal his or her team wins the round and all players meet in the centre of the field to start a new game.
  ** Players are not allowed to interfere with each other or to stand in front of or near the goal to stop the Edor. These actions are not seen to be in keeping with the intention of the game. If necessary a 5–15 metre semi-circle can be marked in front of the goal.

Variations

• In part of the Torres Strait region, the game is played on the beach using two trees up to 0 metres apart. One selected player starts by running towards one tree to try and touch it. If he or she is touched by another player this player calls out loudly, ‘Ida’, and starts running towards the tree that is the longest distance away. Continue in this way.
• Edor can be played as a competition, with one point for each successful goal.
• Tag-team Edor: To avoid being tagged by the opposition the Edor may pass the tag to a teammate in the hope of him or her reaching the goal. Play with a maximum of three tags for a team. The Edor must be tagged (touched) three times by different players from the other team. When the third tag has been made the new Edor is the player who made the last tag.
• Introduce a ball for the Edor to carry and once he or she is tagged the player must release the ball to allow the tagger a chance to pick it up and run with it. A combination of the three-tag rule can be integrated as well as passing the ball in any direction to another player on the same team.

Comment

There is some evidence that a form of this game was introduced to northern parts of Australia through missionaries from Samoa in the early 1900s. The game has elements of both individual and team play.

Suggestion

A method of starting the game is to have all the players close their eyes and someone is designated to discreetly select the player to be the Edor. Once selected a countdown of five seconds is given before the Edor must commence running.

Safety

Thoroughly survey the playing area prior to the start of the game to remove any potentially dangerous obstructions. Enforce that a tag (touch) is made with minimum force and is not a slap or a punch — demonstrate the acceptable form for players to replicate.

Teaching points

• Teams ready. Who is starting?
• Edor ready. Go.
• Run. Tag and change.
• Change. Keep going. Run hard. Chase them.

Gitja

Background

The Gitga (moon) play game from the North Queensland area was usually played when a number of children gathered together. The full version of the game observed involved imitation and acting aspects along with a running-and-chasing activity.

Language

Gitja was the Koko-yellanji language term signifying the moon.

Short description

This is a chasing-and-catching (tag) game. It is a simplified version of a more involved game.

Players

• A group of 10–14 or more players

Playing area

• A designated area suitable for the activity

Game play and basic rules

• In this game a player takes the part of Gitja. Players form a circle around a player with Gitja on the outside and another player on the inside of the circle.
• The player in the circle represents someone who has eaten Gitja’s food by mistake and Gitja wants him or her to know it was the wrong thing to do.
• The game starts and Gitja attempts to catch (touch) the player who is in the middle of the circle. The players in the circle hold hands to attempt to ‘stop’ the Gitja and to help the player
  being chased.
• The Gitja may not break through the arms but can duck under them to chase. The players in the circle bend down to stop the Gitja. Players allow the player in the middle to go outside the circle and back into it as he or she is chased by Gitja.
• Play continues until Gitja has succeeded in catching (touching) the player or a set time expires. The players must stay within the designated playing area when running and chasing.

Variation

• Play with two people to be chased by Gitja.

Comment

This version is shortened from a full game of Gitja and does not include the acting and playing aspects. However, it still reflects the basic nature of the game.

Teaching points

• Form a circle. Player inside, Gitja outside.
• Hold hands. Do not break through the arms.
• Duck under.
• Keep going. Help the runner. Cheer for him/her.
• Good. Change over. Well done everyone.

Birray

Background

Young children in the Bloomfield area of North Queensland played the game of birray (march-fly). It was observed by Walter Roth in the early 1900s.

Language

The name of the game is taken from the Wik‑Mungkan language of North Queensland.

Short description

This is a game where a chaser (birray) attempts to tag (touch) other players.

Players

• A group of four to eight players

Playing area

• A suitable designated area free of obstructions

Game play and basic rules

• Players spread out around the playing area.
• Shutting their eyes (or blindfolded) the player who takes the part of the birray (march-fly) runs about trying to catch (touch) another player in the group.
• As soon as the player is successful he or she makes an unpleasant noise (imitating the insect’s buzz) near the ear of the player caught and also give him or her a ‘pretend’ pinch (indicative of the sting). The player caught (touched) becomes the new birray and the game continues.

Suggestion

This game is recommended for younger children.

Teaching points

• Spread out.
• Keep moving. Watch out for the birray.
• Look out for other players.
• Caught. Change over. Let’s go again.

Kalkadoon Kee’an

Background

In areas of north Queensland, a game of throwing skill was played. A large bone, such as an emu shinbone (with twine attached to it) was thrown over a net (used to catch emus) into a pit or hole. Considering the distance to the hole, great skill was required to correctly aim the bone and ensure that it did not touch the net.

Language

The game is called kee’an, which means ‘to play‘ in the Wik-Mungkan language of North Queensland. The Kalkadoon people from around the Mount Isa area also played a game similar to the one outlined and their connection has been recognised as part of the name of this game.

Short description

This activity involves throwing a ball into a small bin target as many times as possible, as part of a tabloid activity or a skill game.

Players

• Play singly or in groups of two to four players

Playing area

• A designated indoor or outdoor area suitable for the activity

Equipment

• Use ‘foxtail’ or a tennis ball in a stocking (or long football sock) as the bone, with twine attached. When a ball in a stocking is used the length of the foxtail may be adjusted.
• Use a large plastic bin or hoop as the pit or hole.

Game play and basic rules

• Players in groups of two to four line up behind one another. Players hold the foxtail a short distance away from the ball and take it in turns to attempt to throw the foxtail ball into a small bin from 3–5 metres away.
• To avoid interference, the player throwing the foxtail is 2 metres in front of the rest of the line of players (mark a line for this).
• As an extra challenge the balls are held further down the tail. Players retrieve the ball after their turn and give it to the next player.

Scoring

• The game is usually played for fun and recognition for a successful throw, but players can keep a team score from a set time (2–3 minutes) or set number of turns (four to six).

Variations

• Players throw into a hoop 3–5 metres in front of them. They score one point if it touches or bounces in and out of the hoop and two points if it stays in the hoop. A group score can be used. (Suitable for younger players.)
• Players have a set number of turns (for example, five) before the next player in line has a turn. Either play a competition between individual players or groups, or add all the individual scores together for a class total.

Teaching points

• Form a line.
• Player in front with the foxtail.
• Thrower ready. Go.
• Good throws.
• Watch the target.
• Point your hand and follow through.
• Collect the ball.
• Next player move up and ready.
• Go to end of line. Keep going.

Kangaroo

Background

Imitation activities were a favourite and popular activity for children everywhere. In one activity children would copy the actions of the kangaroo.

Language

The word kangaroo appears to have originated from a word (gangarru) in the language of the Gouguyimithirr people in the (Wahalumbaal) Endeavour River area of North Queensland.

Short description

A jumping relay race based on the actions of a kangaroo jumping.

Players

• Teams of four to eight players

Playing area

An appropriate area with lines about 10–15 metres apart

Game play and basic rules

• This simple relay game is conducted over a distance appropriate to the age group of the players.
• The players jump or bound (hop) like kangaroos, keeping their legs together. They hold their arms close to their bodies at waist to chest level and with hands pointing down. They jump in long strides using an up and down motion.

Variations

• Players step and hop — ‘hippety hop’ — or
  gallop step.
• Place a large ball between the legs and hop.

Marn-grook

Background

The marn-grook or ‘game of ball’ was played by some Aboriginal groups in Victoria. The men and boys would joyfully assemble when the game was to be played. The ball was often made of twine formed using the twisted hair of the possum. It was of a good size, somewhat elastic but firm and light.

The ball was given to the ‘best’ player or someone of ‘note’ to commence the game. The tallest players, and those able to jump the highest, had the best chances in the game. Some players would leap as high as 1.5 metres (or higher) from the ground to catch the ball. The game continued for hours and the players never seemed to weary of the exercise.

Some people believe that the game of marn-grook influenced the development of Australian rules football, but the evidence is not conclusive.

Short description

A ball is kicked into the air and players attempt to catch it. This version is designed for younger players.

Players

• Groups of six to 12 players

Playing area

• A designated area suitable for the activity. If the ball goes outside the area the game is stopped.

Equipment

• A small soccer ball, gator skin ball or volleyball

Game play and basic rules

• The ball is dropped and kicked high into the air using the instep of the foot. Players then attempt to secure the ball. The player who takes possession of the ball kicks it in the air and again a scramble for the ball ensues. Players may not dive on the ball on the ground to secure it and must try to avoid physical contact as much as possible. It is usual for the players to attempt to catch the ball, but if it is knocked or dropped to the ground by players it is still in play.

Variations

• Players are in groups 15–20 metres apart. When a player catches the ball he or she kicks it towards the other group of players, who attempt to catch the ball. This works very wellas a lunchtime or physical education  class skill activity.
• Fast play. Use a number of light balls. One or two designated players kick balls high into the air for other players to chase and gather. The balls are handed back to the kickers and play continues in this manner. Change around kickers and observe safety factors — the kickers should kick balls in different directions. If players catch the ball without it hitting the ground or after it bounces, they are acknowledged.

Safety

Restrict the amount of physical contact. Stop the activity immediately if safety is compromised.

Teaching points

• Spread out. Ready.
• Kick it high. Drop the ball to foot and kick.
• Call for the ball. No contact.
• Good catch. Let them kick.
• Keep going.

Kai Wed

Background

In this game from the Torres Strait Islands, a number of players stood in a circle and sang the kai wed (ball song) as they hit a ball up in the air with the palms of their hands. The game was played using the thick, oval, deep-red fruit of the kai tree, which is quite light when dry.

Language

Kai wed, also used as kamut wed for string-figure ‘ball playing’.

Kai tupitare abukak kai o atimed kak kai o 
Ball strike without dropping it — ball throw not the ball.

Short description

This is a hand-hitting (volley) game in which players attempt to keep the ball in the air as long as they can.

Players

• Groups of four to eight players

Playing area

• A designated indoor or outdoor area suitable for the activity

Equipment

• A tennis ball, small beach ball, paketa or a small, soft ball

Game play and basic rules

• Players form a circle. The ball is thrown into the air and each player passes it to another by striking the ball upwards with the palm of the hand.
• The ball is usually passed around the circle (players at least 1.8 metres apart) but the game can be played by hitting to any player in the circle other than the one next to the player.

Scoring

In a team contest, the game is won by the group that is able to keep the ball going the best and does not allow it to hit the ground. If the ball hits the ground while attempting to achieve a designated target score, continue the score.

Variations

• Group Kai: Use a sponge ball, beach ball or other light ball. Players hit the ball — with hands and arms only — around the playing area (30 metres x 15 metres) to each other, or divide into two teams and attempt to hit (volley) the ball past the baseline (or a wall) to score. After a score the ball is hit back to the other team to continue play. Only one hit at a time is allowed for players in general play. No physical contact is allowed.
• Allow players to make two contacts (one to control the ball and one to hit it).
• Team Kai: This can be played as a cooperative game in which players as a group attempt to make as many hits as they can without missing. Players stand in a circle about 1 metre apart. One player throws the ball into the air, and the players take turns hitting it upwards with the palm of one hand. They may not catch the ball, but must keep their hands open and flat. A player may not hit the ball twice in a row. Players may sing a song or recite the alphabet as they play (one letter for each hit).
• The ball must be hit to at least head height for younger players and at least 1 metre above head height for more-experienced or older players. When the ball hits the ground the game is restarted. The game can be played with the players taking turns in a set order, random hitting (with the ball not hit by the same player twice in a row), or individual players attempting to hit the ball the most number of times.
• Individual contest or practice kai: Players compete to see who can hit the ball into the air (above head height) with their hand the most number of times without it hitting the ground. This can be played using either hand, alternating, or combined with other stunts/skills such as through the legs, etc.

Suggestion

• Use as a practice activity for sports such as tennis, touch football, Australian rules football, volleyball and speedball.
• In a physical education class the game can be played with a number of modifications as part of a hitting-skill activity. Progressions are:
  • Players hit the ball around in a circle (either direction).
  • Players hit the ball to other players who call out their name. Attempt to work through the whole team.
  • Players work as a team to hit the ball in the air and go through the letters of the alphabet. No player is allowed to touch it twice in succession or receive it straight back from another player.
  • Give each player a number and work through the numbers in a set order.
  • One player stands in the middle of the circle and the ball is deflected to the other players who in turn hit it back to the middle player. Change the middle player each time any player makes an error. The aim is to keep the centre player in as long as possible.

Teaching points

• Players in a circle. Palms of hand up. Hit to start.
• Hit to different players.
• Hit and move back out of the way.
• Count the volleys. Keep going. Let’s start again.
• Good work. Call for the ball.
• Watch out for each other.
• Direct the ball to another player.