TLF ID M006675
The Kal boming (fire-hitting) game was played by the Noongar people in the southern districts of Western Australia and called for both agility and strength. A fire was lit either on the ground or the top of a Balga or Xanthorrhoea (‘grass tree’). The players divided themselves into two teams. One side tried to put the fire out completely with short branches of trees, while the other side defended it. The fire either burned to ashes, or the attacking players smothered it, which brought the game to an end. When the attacking players had been successful in putting the fire out they took their turn in guarding a fire. The game continued until both sides were tired or until night fell. The game was very energetic. This is a vigorous team-wrestling activity where players attempt to climb onto mats while defenders push them off. 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.