New series to explore the colourful side of First Nations languages

Rhiannon Clarke Published December 8, 2022 at 11.00am (AWST)

Comedian Gabriel Willie's new series delivers a funny and unique take on learning and embracing Indigenous languages.

Willie has made thousands laugh through his skits on social media, under the name Bush Tucker Bunjie.

Like most comedians he doesn't shy away from blunt or colourful language, but can't abide by swearing in English.

Determined to find the best and truly local "bad" words, Willie travelled through Australia, from community to community, on a mission of learning.

The short form comedy documentary covers Willie's journey through these communities and lingos.

Each episode of the series focuses on one language, and sees Willie yarning with aunties, Elders, teachers, linguists and more.

"Working on No Offence was a deadly experience! It was hectic but heaps of fun," he said.

"Getting to travel to so many different mobs' Countries, yarning, having a laugh, learning language, sharing culture and making new connections was definitely a highlight."

Willie explores "the more spicy side" of the language and then uses his new-found knowledge in skits at the end of each episode.

The show aims to celebrate the many First languages, making them accessible and "show how much fun they are… Not as a museum exhibit of the past, but as a vibrant and integral part of the future".

"Working with a deadly, professional but down to earth crew and having fun with these cheeky words was non-stop laughs," Willie said.

"I'm proper excited and can't wait for people to enjoy these many different characters we came across, but also learn and start using these words more in our everyday life."

Executive producer Faith Baisden said the series was part of raising awareness of the importance of First languages in Australia's cultural landscape, but also showing "the lighter side as well".

"Even just talking about these old phrases is a great conversation starter between young people and their Elders," she said.

No Offence! Streams on Friday, 16 December on ABC iview.

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Disclaimer: This function is AI-generated and therefore may mispronounce.

National Indigenous Times

Disclaimer: This function is AI-generated and therefore may mispronounce.