The dance of the Arnhem chestnut pigeon

Wet shirt

wet hat

flap, flap, flap

arms stretched

and hands flapping

flap, flap, flap

uneven steps, always forward

like a ceremonial dance

without the praying

smiles and laughter

a lucky charm

chestnut pigeon dance.

Kakadu NP.  July 2024

I acknowledge the traditional owners of the Kakadu national park lands, the Bininj and the Mungguy and its leaders past and present. Sovereignty has never been ceded. Like millions of Australians I accept the Uluru Statement of the Heart and support the Voice.