Birak
Learning
Birak
First Summer
(December to January)
Season of Heat, Fire, and New Growth
Birak marks the beginning of the Noongar summer, when the weather in Dayton, WA becomes hot and dry. Traditionally, this was a time of cool, controlled burning, helping to care for Country, regenerate plant life, and reduce the risk of large bushfires. The landscape begins to show signs of resilience, with new growth emerging after fire.
In our school Yarning Circle and Bush Tucker space, Birak is represented through plants that thrive in heat. Geraldton Wax blooms beautifully during this time, while Bush Basil and Native Lemongrass grow strongly and can be harvested for their aromatic leaves. These plants help students explore how people use natural resources for food, flavour, and wellbeing.
Birak invites us to gather in the Yarning Circle to talk about caring for Country, fire management, and how people live with the land during hot weather. Students might share ideas about staying cool, observing changes in plants, or creating simple herbal infusions using garden leaves.
Across all six Noongar seasons, our Yarning Circle and Bush Tucker garden connect students to Country, culture, and sustainability. This project continues to grow as a living classroom—supporting hands-on learning, respect for First Nations knowledge, and a deeper understanding of our school community’s environment.
