Marngrook

The long-ago story of Aussie Rules

By Titta Secombe and Grace Fielding, Magabala Books, 2012.

‘A wonderful kids’ story that shares the origins of our national game.’

The beginnings of how Aussie Rules football was invented is sometimes a controversial topic. Marngrook is a ball game that was played by first Australians in north-west Victoria over 150 years ago. This kids picture book is set in the traditional country of the Djab-Wurrung and Jardwadjali clans in the foothills of Duwul, the highest mountain in the Grampians.

The opening pages give some factual content about the people and the region, as well as translations for some Jardwadjali language words.

The main character, Jaara, a young Djab-Wurrung and Jardwadjali boy, is given a new toy from his father, Wawi. It is made from the skin of a banya, or ringtail possum.

I found Marngrook a little bit gruesome, as the Elder grabs an innocent animal to kill and eat and make a ball from its skin. The story goes into the details of how the pieces of the animal are preserved to assist in the making of the marngrook ball. It is, however, educational, and would possibly appeal to young boys who love to play football.

Quite naive illustrations, but beautifully embellished with indigenous designs.

Download the teacher’s notes.