Colours of Parnati
by Carla Caruso
The Botanic Gardens of South Australia has shared a Kaurna calendar, depicting the local indigenous seasons.
As a representative wrote recently on Instagram: “On the Kaurna calendar, the Tarndanya/Adelaide area is still in the season of Parnati [autumn].
“It is indicated by kudmu (fog/dew) on the ground, high rainfall, and waadlawarnka (fallen trees). It’s a time when small stone fruit are eaten, along with roots, yams, wild cabbage and seeds.”
Adding: “Thank you to the Kaurna elders, who have given permission for people to use this calendar via the Bureau of Meteorology, and all contributors to the calendar.”
Kaurna calendar, from the Bureau of Meteorology.
The Kaurna seasons are one month behind those set out by English colonists. Along with the weather, the Kaurna seasons are defined by indicators such as the abundance of food, like kangaroo and seafood, and the varied plants that are ready to eat. (Read more about the Kaurna calendar here.)
At the end of the Parnati season, we thought we’d share some park pics from around social media, celebrating the season.
Grab a mug of spiced hot chocolate and a lap rug – and enjoy!
Raindrops on petals in the Adelaide Botanic Garden (Park 11). Photo: Bottlo74.
Another beauty by Bottlo74 in the Botanic Garden.
More wintry colour in the Adelaide Botanic Garden, care of Bottlo74.
Restaurant Botanic. Photo: Bottlo74.
A moss-covered tree captured by Chris Colhoun during a lunch walk in Lefevre Park / Nantu Wama (Park 6).
Mushroom shot by Chris Colhoun, also in Park 6.
Tree hollows in Park 6, thanks to Chris Colhoun.
Sunshine amid the chill in Victoria Park / Pakapakanthi (Park 16), care of Lisa White.
The Adelaide Botanic Garden shared this pic by Alex Chu at its Sunken Garden.
Brolly time in Victoria Park / Pakapakanthi (Park 16) for this junior soccer player. Photo: Natalie Petrizza.
Banner photo by Sharine Guerra.