An important message from Mr Beaky by Cassie Leatham & Sue Lawson

YouTube and social media star, Mr Beaky the budgerigar, is now in print. This clever cheeky blue budgie has been taught the Taungurung language of his First Nations parent and has important messages to share with young readers. This beautifully presented book with gorgeous photos of Mr Beaky, begins with an introduction in Taungurung, Wumindjeka Daungwurrung Biik “Hello Welcome to Taungurung Country.” The following page shows a map of where Mr Beaky’s home is on Taungurung Country in the state of Victoria.

There are several important messages throughout the story, one being that First Nation Peoples in Australia do not all look the same just like all the different coloured budgerigars in Australia but what is important is their murrup, “soul and spirit.” Mr Beaky himself is a blue budgie unlike those in the wild that are green and yellow, but he knows where he belongs and that it is to his Country. From Mr Beaky, the reader learns about the Aboriginal people being the world’s longest continuing civilisation and that importantly, all people must care and show gilbruk “respect” for Elders and Country.

The opportunity to learn about Aboriginal language and culture through the eyes of Mr Beaky, is a perfect starting point for children and adults in understanding, acceptance and Reconciliation. A wonderful book for every school and public library.  

Themes: Aboriginal Culture & Identity, First Nations Peoples, Budgerigars, Taungurung Country, Taungurung Language, Reconciliation.

Kathryn Beilby