What Traditional Lands Are Dubbo On?

Dubbo, a regional city in central-west New South Wales, Australia, sits on the traditional lands of the Tubbagah people of the Wiradjuri Nation. The Wiradjuri are the largest Aboriginal language group in New South Wales, and their connection to this country spans tens of thousands of years. This article explains the specific traditional custodians, the broader Wiradjuri territory, and how to respectfully acknowledge them.

Ingredients

1 accurate acknowledgment of Traditional Owners
1 dash of respect for Elders past and present
1 willingness to learn local place names
1 cup of curiosity about Wiradjuri culture (optional, but recommended)

Instructions

Start by understanding that Dubbo is located on the traditional lands of the Tubbagah people, who are part of the larger Wiradjuri Nation. The Wiradjuri people are the traditional custodians of a vast area in central New South Wales, stretching from the Blue Mountains in the east to the Lachlan River in the west, and from the Murray River in the south to the Macquarie River in the north.
Recognize that the name “Wiradjuri” comes from the word for “no” (wirra) and “no” (dhuurray), reflecting the distinct language spoken by the people. The Wiradjuri language is part of the Pama-Nyungan language family, and efforts are ongoing to revive it.
When visiting Dubbo, you may see signs or plaques acknowledging the Traditional Owners. Pay attention to these and take a moment to reflect on the deep history of the land you are on.
If you are attending an event or giving a speech in Dubbo, include a Welcome to Country (if an Elder is present) or an Acknowledgement of Country (if you are doing it yourself). A simple example is: “I would like to acknowledge the Tubbagah people of the Wiradjuri Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we meet today, and pay my respects to their Elders past and present.”
Extend your respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and consider learning more about the local Wiradjuri culture through museums, cultural centers, or guided tours in the Dubbo region.

Tips

Pronunciation: “Tubbagah” is often pronounced “Tub-ba-gah,” and “Wiradjuri” as “Wir-raj-uh-ree.” If unsure, ask a local Aboriginal organization for guidance.
Local variations: Some sources may refer to the Dubbo area as Wiradjuri land without specifying the Tubbagah clan. Both are correct; the Tubbagah are a specific family group within the Wiradjuri Nation.
Acknowledgement vs. Welcome: A Welcome to Country can only be given by an Aboriginal Elder or Traditional Owner, while an Acknowledgement of Country can be given by anyone. Use the appropriate form for your situation.
Further research: For more detailed information, contact the Dubbo Regional Council or local Aboriginal Land Council, as they have official resources and protocols.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this knowledge with humility and a genuine desire to learn. Consider incorporating a traditional Wiradjuri greeting or phrase into your acknowledgment, such as “Yamandhu marang” (hello, good) if you have learned it from a reliable source. Pair with a visit to the Dubbo Regional Gallery or the Old Dubbo Gaol, where you can explore more local history.

Variations

If you are in a different town within the Wiradjuri Nation, such as Bathurst, Orange, or Wagga Wagga, the same acknowledgment applies, but you may want to specify the local clan if known. For example, the Bathurst area is traditionally Wiradjuri land, but the specific clan may be the Wambuul people. Always check with local Aboriginal organizations for the most accurate information.

Storage and Reheating

This knowledge does not expire, but it should be kept fresh by regularly revisiting and updating your understanding. Store it in your long-term memory by engaging with Aboriginal culture through books, films, and community events. Reheat your awareness by attending cultural workshops or listening to Indigenous podcasts. There is no shelf life for respect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Wiradjuri the only traditional owners of Dubbo?
Yes, the Wiradjuri Nation is the traditional owner of the Dubbo area, specifically the Tubbagah clan. There are no other Aboriginal groups claiming custodianship of this specific region.

What does “Tubbagah” mean?
The exact meaning is not widely published, but it is the name of the family group or clan that belongs to the Wiradjuri Nation in the Dubbo area. Like many Aboriginal clan names, it is tied to a specific geographic area and kinship system.

Can I use a Welcome to Country if I’m not Aboriginal?
No, a Welcome to Country must be performed by an Aboriginal Elder or Traditional Owner. As a non-Aboriginal person, you can give an Acknowledgement of Country, which is a respectful way to recognize the traditional custodians.

Is it offensive to say “Aboriginal” or should I say “Indigenous”?
In Australia, “Aboriginal” is generally acceptable, but “Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander” is more inclusive. “Indigenous” is also used, but some prefer “First Nations” or “First Peoples.” When in doubt, use the specific nation name, like “Wiradjuri,” which is always respectful.

How do I find out the traditional owners of another town in Australia?
You can use the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) map of Indigenous Australia, or contact the local council or Aboriginal Land Council in that area. Many councils have this information on their websites.

What is the best way to show respect when visiting Dubbo?
Beyond an acknowledgment, you can support Indigenous-owned businesses, visit cultural sites with permission, and listen to the stories and histories shared by local Wiradjuri people. Respect also means caring for the land and waterways, as they are central to Aboriginal culture.

More recipes to cook

Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes

Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it (corrections policy).