The Noongar Season ‘Djeran’ is represented by the colour green as it is the time of the year where the cooler weather begins. Djeran season sees a break in the really hot weather. A key indicator of the change of season is the cool nights that bring a dewy presence in the early mornings. The winds will also change, especially in their intensity, with light breezes generally swinging from southerly directions. 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 can be seen in the ELC playground by the sand pit. The silver princess is in flower there also. The pin cushion hakea is in full bloom along with smaller and more petite flowers of the summer flame (Beaufortia aestiva), both found in the Regeneration Area of the Wildspace. It was planted by students in 2018 who were studying Permaculture.
Banksias start to display their flowers, ensuring that there are nectar food sources for the many small mammals and birds that rely upon them. The Boat House in the Middle School looks upon the orange of the banksia (Prionotes). ELC has three fine examples of banksia including yellow integrifolia all in flower. Watch for the grey leafed macrocarpa as its large cones are about to open into a bright display pink!
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 boohi (turtles) were also common foods here at Galup.
