Noongar Seasons | The Six Seasons of Australia's South West

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Six Seasons Of The South West

The world's oldest living culture

Australia’s South West is an ancient land and home to one of the world’s oldest living cultures, with the Noongar Aboriginal peoples connection to Boodja (Country) dating back more than 50, 000 years. Conservationists by nature, they were semi-nomadic, following changes in the landscape represented by a six season calendar, still used by Aboriginal people today.

Six Seasons

The six Noongar seasons – Birak, Bunuru, Djeran, Makuru, Djilba and Kambarang – represent the seasonal changes we see across the South West annually, and can be indicated by weather patterns, food availability, and changes in flora and fauna.

“Each season has a plant indicator that flowers in advance of each change,” says Koomal Dreaming‘s Josh Whiteland. “Plants, animals and weather patterns coincide with each season, which runs for the duration of every second full moon. This determines where to forage, gather, hunt and camp.”

While visiting Australia’s South West, we ask that you care for Boodja (Country).

Changing Seasons

Experience the six seasons of the South West through the ancient rhythms of the natural world.

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Connect to Country

Want to learn more about the bonars (seasons) and one of the world’s oldest living cultures? Go on an Aboriginal cultural tour or experience in the region today.

The Kodja Place

Cultural centre weaving together Kojonup’s Aboriginal and settler stories.

Aboriginal Culture

Walkabout on Country

Experience the Stirling Ranges through the eyes of your Aboriginal cultural guide.

Aboriginal Culture

Yallingup Aboriginal Art

Discover fine Aboriginal art from award-winning Australian artists.

Aboriginal Culture

Boola Bidi Dreaming Centre

Visit the hub of Aboriginal culture in Harvey (Korijekup).

Aboriginal Culture

Kurrah Mia

Aboriginal cultural tours showcasing ancient culture near Albany.

Aboriginal Culture

Six Seasons
of the South West

Birak (December – January)

The weather is dry and hot. Also known as ‘Season of the Young.’

Bunuru (February – March)

The hottest part of the year. Also known as ‘Season of Adolescence.’

Djeran (April – May)

Cooler weather begins. This season is also known as the ’Season of Adulthood.’

Makuru (June – July)

The coldest and wettest time of the year with more frequent gales and storms. Also known as ‘Fertility Season.’

Djilba (August – September)

A mixture of wet days with increasing number of clear, cold nights and pleasant, warmer days. Also known as ‘Season of Conception.’

Kambarang (October – November)

Experiencing longer dry periods. This time is also known as ‘Season of Birth.’

Learn more about the Noongar peoples connection to Country on an authentic Aboriginal cultural experience or tour.