TLF ID M006616
The marn-grook or ‘game of ball’ was played by some Aboriginal groups in Victoria. The men and boys would joyfully assemble when the game was to be played. The ball was often made of twine formed using the twisted hair of the possum. It was of a good size, somewhat elastic but firm and light. The ball was given to the ‘best’ player or someone of ‘note’ to commence the game. The tallest players, and those able to jump the highest, had the best chances in the game. Some players would leap as high as 1.5 metres (or higher) from the ground to catch the ball. The game continued for hours and the players never seemed to weary of the exercise. Some people believe that the game of marn-grook influenced the development of Australian rules football, but the evidence is not conclusive. A ball is kicked into the air and players attempt to catch it. This version is designed for younger players. The Yulunga: Traditional Indigenous Games resource was developed to provide all Australians with a greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous culture by celebrating the games that Indigenous Australians have been playing across the country for hundreds of years.