An ancient and living connection to Country
The Djallah/Dalla people lived around the Conondale and Blackall Ranges, extending toward Kilcoy, Maleny, and the upper Brisbane River. This area is full of bunya forests, rainforests, and rich waterways, making it central to food gathering and ceremony.
Connection to the Bunya
The Dalla were sometimes referred to as the Bunya people, because their Country contained some of the richest bunya groves.
They were part of the great bunya festivals. When the cones ripened in abundance, the Dalla would gather with neighbouring Nations, Kabi Kabi, Wakka Wakka, and many others. These gatherings could last for weeks and involved feasting, trade, marriage arrangements, dispute settlements, and sacred ceremonies.
Language
The Dalla language is a dialect of the Waka–Kabic language group, related to Kabi Kabi and Wakka Wakka. Some words are preserved in records, for example, “bonyi” (bunya) and “yamma” (go).
Revitalisation efforts are underway to keep Dalla words alive.
Spiritual & Cultural Role
Dalla held important cultural responsibilities, to share food and to uphold law and ensure that the bunya gatherings were safe, respectful, and spiritually aligned.
Like the Kabi Kabi, their stories and laws emphasise balance, sharing, and respect for Country.
Impact of Colonisation
By the mid 1800s, Dalla people suffered heavily from frontier violence, land seizure, and disruption of bunya gatherings. Despite this, Dalla descendants continue cultural renewal today, with some working alongside Kabi Kabi Elders (like Aunty Bev Hand) to keep bunya traditions strong.