Lost indigenous language revived in Australia (fwd link)

[Phillip E Cash Cash]

21 January 2013 Last updated at 19:35 ET

*Lost indigenous language revived in Australia*

By Phil MercerBBC News, Sydney

*An Aboriginal language crushed under the weight of European colonisation
in Australia has been revived, thanks to the dedication of researchers and
the vision of 19th Century German missionaries.
*
The Kaurna language once thrived and was spoken by the original inhabitants
of Adelaide. But it began to disappear from daily use in South Australia as
early as the 1860s.

Ivaritji, an elder who was thought to be the last fluent speaker of Kaurna,
died in the late 1920s. More than 80 years later, its unique sounds have
been brought back to life.

"It is about self-identity and cultural identity as well," explained
Vincent "Jack"' Buckskin, who runs evening courses for both Aboriginal and
non-indigenous students.

"At first it is a little bit difficult to learn and is very different to
English, which is what we all grew up with," he said.


*Kaurna language*

Traditional words

Niinamarni - to say hello to one person; also means are you good
Niinamarnitidli - means good day
Purrunarninthi - means coming alive

Newly-created words

Panpapanpalya - means conference
Warraityi - means phone (literally the voice-sending thing)
Mukarntu - means computer (literally lightening brain)

Access full article below:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-20066624
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