Recognition for unique Norfolk Island language

Recognition for unique Norfolk Island language

Norfolk Island has taken a small but significant step towards achieving international recognition of the unique Norf’k language.

UNESCO has agreed to include Norf’k in the next edition of its Atlas of the World’s Languages in Danger of Disappearing.

Norfolk Island chief minister André Nobbs says the progress follows a submission by the Norfolk Island Government to UNESCO of a research paper prepared by Prof. Peter Muhlhausler.

The Chief Minister paid tribute to a small group of enthusiastic community members who had initiated the approach to UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation. He also thanked his predecessor Hon. David Buffett for his efforts in promoting the use and recognition of the language.

In 2004, the Norfolk Island Legislative Assembly passed the Norfolk Island Language (“Norf’k) Act. The act recognised and affirmed “…the Norfolk Island Language (Norf’k) and the right of the people of Norfolk Island to speak and write it freely and without interference or prejudice from government or other persons”.

The language was defined in the act as “…the language known as ‘Norf’k’ that is spoken by the descendents of the first free settlers of Norfolk Island who were descendents of the settlers of Pitcairn Island”. The legislation established rights to use the language within Norfolk Island in all forms of communication and for it to be taught in schools.

“The advice from UNESCO is a significant step in building recognition of the unique language and culture of Norfolk Island,” Mr Nobbs says. “Other exciting cultural initiatives are underway, including progress toward establishing a cultural centre.

“The Norfolk Island Government will continue to support and encourage the projects to recognise and promote our special cultural values.”

Here is a taste of the ‘unique’ Norf’k language:

Norfolk / English

Watawieh Yorlye? / How are you?

Si Yorlye Morla / See you tomorrow

Kushu / Good

We baut yu gwen? / Where are you going?

Fut nort? / Why not?

Hetieh' / Here it is

Daaset / That's it

Daa letl salan waili ap in aa pain / That little child is stuck in that pine

About Norfolk Island: Discovered by Captain Cook in 1774, Norfolk Island was first settled as a British penal colony in 1788 through to 1856. On June 8, 1856, the island was re-inhabited by a community from Pitcairn Island, descendants of the Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian companions.

Known today as Norfolk Islanders, they form a majority of the 1,800 resident population. Norfolk Island is renowned for its spectacular coastal scenery, colourful history, sporting and cultural activities, convict heritage and tax-free shopping.

ENDS

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