The Yarramundi Kids

A group of life-like puppets whose stories, assisted by their Creative Director and master puppeteer Chris Burke, are featured in training workshops, conference presentations and puppet shows for adults and children – That’s Another Story.

'Yellamundee' means 'storyteller' in Darug language. Yarramundi is the name of Chris' ancestral grandfather and is also a place on the Derrubin or Hawkesbury River at the base of the Blue Mountains, west of Sydney, NSW. The Yarramundi Kids' names reflect both Aboriginal and Irish heritage. Artist, Leanne Tobin's impression of Yarramundi - Paintings

NIKITA MORAN

“I know who I am and where my mob's from - my Koori identity makes me strong.”

Nikita is 10 years old and lives with her grandmother. She knows a lot about her Darug ancestry and loves to dance and sing in language. Nikita's life experiences have taught her about family, relationships and what she wants to do when she grows up.

DANNY GILLIGAN

“I was born by a lake on the night of the full moon. I have a keen interest in knowledge and learning. I was named after a very unique Professor who lives on the other side of the world.”

Danny is a social researcher; he is interested in statistics; he likes to gather information about important issues and share this knowledge with the right people at the right time.

LILLI PILLI GILLIGAN

Lilli Pilli is the three year old little sister of Danny. She has just started pre-school.

Lilli Pilli enjoys meeting new friends, singing songs and playing fun games.

"My name is Lilli Pilli Gilligan and I am free years old. My bruffa says my real name is Silli Lilli Pilli!

My dad took this photo of me in my new dress; mum made it for my birfday!!

BEN LOCKE

"Let me start at the beginning – CONCEPTION! You had to be there!”

Ben has a unique ability to touch people's hearts and move them to laughter and tears. He speaks on behalf of babies - giving voice to their experiences of birth, breast feeding and being parented. People have been entertained by his portrayal of life through the eyes of a baby.

MAX DEANE

“Hi everyone. My name is Max
Life has taught me quite a few facts.
Like it’s time to get goin’ when the goin’ gets tough …
Cos when people fight – it can get pretty rough!”

Max suffers from living in the shadow of a famous brother whose reputation precedes him. He is very proud of his dad and looks to him for guidance and support. Max’s dad has been referred to as ‘a person of interest’, especially by the police… but that’s another story.