We grew up in a really close family. In total there are 5 of us siblings, being a big family we felt like we had our own tribe a lot of the time. But that is certainly not the case, we have a huge family network that we belong to, we are direct descendants of the Gundungurra nation - Blue mountains, our family lineage also comes from Dunghutti nation - Kempsey and Kamilaroi nation - Narrabri.
Our parents loved taking us out bush and sharing the knowledge they adored in nature and all of its beauty. We all feel very at peace and alive when we are out in nature, and it is something that completes us. In the absence of our country connection, our mind - body - soul wellness would be out of balance, I guess you could say there would be an empty space our hearts couldn't fill in any other way.
Our father grew up with a major influence on bush living. He did a lot of hunting and gathering to help contribute to family meals, it was his way of life. So often we would hear his stories and listen to him play the didge in memory of his younger days. Mum would often tell the story from when she and Dad were younger. They were walking through the bush and up leapt Dad. To our amazement, as the story goes he grasped a kookaburra in mid-flight, straight out of the air. Of course, dad let the little fella fly away, but I guess it shows the skills and knowledge his elders had taught him.
We grew up learning Aboriginal dance and always being allowed space to paint and do other creative works within our culture. We loved exploring bush foods and being shown wood carvings and possum skin clothing. We were raised with strong cultural mentors who we adore and admire for their knowledge and talents. Through our art and stories, we hope that you get to know them on a deeper level and appreciate their rich knowledge and beautiful souls as we do.
Our Father Mervyn Trindall, and his four daughters: Sharon, Josie, Emily, and Clara.
Credit: The artwork in the background is copyrighted to Thomas Brown (uncle Tom), a renowned and respected Indigenous artist. We pay our respects to him.
Our beautiful Nana Clare, pictured with Sharon Robbie (Trindall).