Gija people

For other uses, see Kija (disambiguation).
Qantas Boeing 737 with "Mendoowoorrji" paint scheme, inspired by Paddy Bedford's artwork "Medicine Pocket", itself inspired by the region inhabited by the Gija people

Gija, also spelt 'Gidja' and 'Kija', refers to Aboriginal Australians from the East Kimberley area of Western Australia, about 200 km south of Kununurra. In the late 19th century pastoralists were fiercely resisted by Gija people, many of whom now live around localities such as Halls Creek and Warmun (also known as Turkey Creek).

They have maintained a strong tradition of cultural preservation and active programs include a repository of teaching materials and artwork. Barramundi scale designs by local artist Lena Nyadbi were recently used on the roof of the Musee du Quai Branly on the River Seine in Paris (Miller 2013). It can only be viewed from the Eiffel Tower or Google Earth (Adamson 2013). In 2013, Qantas adapted Paddy Bedford's artwork for use on a Boeing 737.

Multinational mining company, Rio Tinto, operate the Argyle Diamond mine, the 'world's largest producer of naturally coloured gems [and] only consistent supplier of ... pink diamonds' (Rio Tinto 2012) at Barramundi Gap, a site of great cultural significance, especially to the traditions of Gija women.

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