Uncle Steven Kemp
Keeping the Flame Alive: The Inspirational Journey of Uncle Steve Kemp
In the heart of Central Queensland, a powerful voice keeps the spirit of the Ghungalu people strong. That voice belongs to Uncle Steve Kemp, a respected Elder whose life’s work honours Aboriginal culture through education, storytelling, and the continued practice of traditional knowledge.
A Life of Many Roles
Uncle Steve holds many roles. He is a cultural and language teacher, an educational storyteller, a lesson plan writer, an artefact maker, and a knowledge keeper of bush medicine and tucker. Through these roles, he actively shares his deep cultural understanding with those eager to learn.
Preserving Language Through Education
At the core of his mission is a desire to teach the younger generation. Uncle Steve combines ancient Ghungalu language with modern educational frameworks. Consequently, his lesson plans—used in Woorabinda Primary School and beyond—create a learning experience that connects students to their cultural roots while meeting national standards.
Storytelling with Meaning
Moreover, Uncle Steve’s storytelling serves a greater purpose. His narratives are not simply entertaining; they pass on the behaviours of animals, seasonal changes, and traditional knowledge from Elders. These stories provide insight into a world where nature, culture, and spirituality are closely linked.
Reviving Traditional Skills
In addition to his teaching, Uncle Steve safeguards traditional skills such as artefact making and hunting. He teaches students how to craft tools, understand their purpose, and respect the heritage behind them. As a result, these traditions continue to thrive in new generations.
Bush Medicine and Tucker Wisdom
Uncle Steve also shares his extensive knowledge of bush medicine and native foods. He explains the healing properties and nutritional benefits of local plants, particularly those found throughout the Central Queensland region. Through this, he promotes sustainable living and self-sufficiency, rooted in cultural understanding.
Recognition of His Legacy
Because of his immense contribution to culture and education, Uncle Steve received the prestigious Centenary Award. This honour recognises his tireless efforts to keep his father’s language and traditional knowledge alive for future generations.
Purpose-Driven Passion
What fuels Uncle Steve’s work is a deep sense of responsibility. “All our stories are written for early children’s learning about some Australian creature’s habits and life cycles from our elders’ observations passed down through the generations,” he explains. His teachings now reach adults as well, thanks to radio broadcasts and online platforms that expand his audience.
Working in Collaboration
Uncle Steve works closely with teachers and curriculum writers at Woorabinda Primary School. Together, they ensure that cultural teachings align with modern learning goals. This collaboration not only strengthens educational outcomes, but also reinforces cultural identity among Aboriginal students.
A Torchbearer for the Future
Ultimately, Uncle Steve’s journey reflects a commitment to bridging traditional knowledge with modern education. His work empowers both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians to understand, respect, and preserve Indigenous heritage.
In a world where cultural knowledge is often at risk of being lost, Uncle Steve’s passion keeps the flame burning bright. His legacy lives on—not only in the students he teaches, but also in the communities he uplifts.
Whether he is teaching bush tucker, crafting artefacts, or sharing a story by the fire, Uncle Steve Kemp inspires us to walk gently, listen deeply, and honour the voices of the past as we move forward together.