At Murdoch we acknowledge and respect our continuing association with Noongar people, the traditional custodians of the land upon which our campuses stand. Australia’s Indigenous people have inhabited Australia for over 50,000 years and you will find lots of references to their culture everywhere you go in Australia.

Bonar (seasons) are an essential part of Noongar culture. The season of Djeran, typically experienced over April and May, is one of the six Noongar seasons.

The others are Birak (December to January), Bunuru (February to March), Makuru (June — July), Djilba (August to September) and Kambarang (October to November)

Djeran is represented by the colour green, as it is the time of the year when the cooler weather begins. The cool nights bring a dewy presence in the early morning, and the wind changes into light breezes. As the winds generally swing from southerly, many flying ants can be seen cruising around in the light winds.

Djeran is a time of red flowers, especially from the red flowering gum (Corymbiaficifolia), as well as the smaller and more petite flowers of the summer flame (Beaufortia aestiva). As you travel around the Perth area, you may also notice the red 'rust' and seed cones forming on the male and female she-oaks (Allocasuarina fraseriana). Banksias start to display their flowers, ensuring that there are nectar food sources for the many small mammals and birds that rely upon them.

Traditionally, foods at this time of year included the zamia seeds that had been collected and stored for treatment during the previous season. The root bulbs of the yanget (Bullrushes), freshwater fish, frogs and turtles were also common foods.

As the season progresses, the nights will become cooler and damp. The onset of cool and rainy days meant that traditional mia mias (houses or shelters) were repaired and updated to make sure they were waterproofed and facing in the right direction in readiness for the deep wintery months to come.