Holding and practising Yolŋu concepts of <i>märr</i> and <i>ŋayaŋu</i> in Northern Australia

Abstract This paper will reflect on experiences of sharing and learning Yolŋu dhäruk (words, utterances, language) of East Arnhem Land in university education programs and community-based research. In particular we will attend to the concepts of märr and ŋayaŋu — inner feelings that are expressed in how we behave and interact. We elaborate how märr and ŋayaŋu are held and practiced by the traditional owners of Yolŋu dhäruk . Enactment of märr and ŋayaŋu can invigorate distinct ways of being and knowing Yolŋu dhäruk and express care for people and places in celebrating intergenerational knowledge transfer.