Synopsis

Ŋambi is part of the sacred law for Wägilak people in southern Arnhem Land, NT, and it is found at their home country called Ŋilipitji.

Ŋambi was very important for the Yolŋu economy and was a valuable trade item that spread across the land. It is part of the sacred law for Wägilak people, and the story is central to the lives of dozens of clans and communities across Arnhem Land and beyond.

The Djuŋgaya (managers) were experts at handling Ŋambi. They would sing the correct songs to help the stone split cleanly, and without shards injuring the craftsman. It was used to make very effective spears for hunting and the shards were used in initiation ceremonies.

Roy Wuyŋumbi Ashley, the custodian of the Songline for Ŋambi and Ŋilipitji, shares an all-encompassing story of identity, culture and law that only he can tell.

Roy passed away a year after this film was made.

Trailer