Image by Tourism WA, Wardandi Boodja Bunbury
First summer and the traditional burning season as the days warm and rainfall is uncommon. Many of the birds have chicks which will fledge in Birak. Cool breezes come from the South West.
Second summer. Hottest time of the year. Coastal living and fishing characterises the season. Freshwater foods and seafood made up major parts of the diet during Bunuru. This is also a time of white flowering gums in full bloom.
The hot weather eases to Autumn and features cooler nights with dew in the mornings. As the season progresses it grows colder and red wildflowers bloom. Food sources include fish, frogs, turtles and root bulbs.
This is the coldest and wettest season. It is frequented by storms. Traditionally, people moved inland where the catchments have water and rivers run. Food sources change to kangaroos (yongar), emus (waitj) and possums (koomal).
Late winter and early spring days start to warm while nights are cold and clear. Flowers come to life as this transitional period sees rains and sunshine. Food sources remain grazing animals. Balgas (grass tree) flower stalks emerge.
A transformational time of the year. Wildflowers and orchids bloom and Australian Christmas trees flower as the days get warmer. Food sources remain kangaroos, emus and possums. Snakes begin to wake up.