Baratjala

Our elders established this place, Baratjala, and then the Makassans came to collect trepang (Holothuroidea, sea cucumber). The elders saw the Makassans and told them the names of these marŋarr (anchorage points): Gambuŋ, Baratjala, Yalanaŋu and Marŋarrna.

— DJAMBAWA MARAWILI

Baratjala is a Maḏarrpa site located on the coast where cyclones, huge tides and strong currents are common. It it historically significant because it was the anchorage point for sailors from the port of Makassar.  It was chosen because freshwater is available nearby and the sailors planted tamarind trees there so it was clearly marked. It is also where the sailors camped to prepare darripa (trepang, sea cucumber). It is associated with the songline of the lightning serpent, Burrut’tji, and the area is known for its high rate of lightning strikes.

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