Traditional Healers of the Central Desert: Ngangkari

by Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjar Yankunytjatjara Women’s Council Aboriginal Corporation

Abstract

This book contains unique stories and imagery and primary source material from the Ngangkari; senior Aboriginal people authorised to speak publicly about Anangu (Western Desert language speaking Aboriginal people) culture and practices. It is accurate, authorised information about their work, written in their own words.

The practice of traditional healing is still very much a part of contemporary Aboriginal society. The Ngangkari currently employed at Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjar Yankunytjatjara Women's Council Aboriginal Corporation deliver treatments to people across a tri-state region of about 350,000 square km, in more than 25 communities in South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory. Ngangkari work collaboratively with hospitals and health professionals even beyond this region, working hand in hand with western medical practitioners.

Abstract adapted from Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjar Yankunytjatjara Women’s Council Aboriginal Corporation

Links

• View media release: Traditional Healers of Central Australia: Ngangkari (PDF - 883.9 KB)
• View media release: Traditional Healers of the Central Desert: Ngangkari (PDF - 195.7 KB)
  available in March 2013
• View website: Magabala Books