My Little Barlaagany (Sunshine)

A soothing bedtime story from mum to baby

As the sun shines throughout the day,

it warms your cheeks while we play.

As the sun sets in the evening sky,

say, 'Yaarri Yarraang, goodbye.'

This gentle bedtime story follows the journey a mother and child take across a day and into the Dreamtime - finding special places to visit, creatures to meet and new things to discover.

From Gumbaynggirr artist Melissa Greenwood, the creator of the heart-stirring picture book Miimi Marraal, Mother Earth.

About the Author

Melissa Greenwood was born on her Gumbaynggirr jagun (homelands) in Coffs Harbour and raised between both Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung nations. On Melissa's matriarchal side, she is a Gumbaynggirr custodian with strong ties to Bundjalung and Dunghutti. Her father's side has English and Welsh heritage. Melissa was raised by her single Aboriginal mother so identifies strongly with her Aboriginal heritage and is a miimi (mum) of two beautiful giibarrin (boys). From a very young age Melissa has been passionate about creating change for her people. Melissa completed both an Associate Diploma in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies and a Bachelor of Justice Studies majoring in Critical Criminology.

Melissa has used her skills to work tirelessly for the Indigenous community for over a decade running National Projects, Aboriginal Youth Programs and supporting survivors of the Stolen Generation. Melissa is the founder and director of Miimi and Jiinda, a thriving Australian art business. Melissa has just launched a sister brand called Ochre by Miimi and Jiinda which is her fashion and homewares label. Melissa's dream is to create a platform that not only supports her people but provides opportunities for them for employment and avenues for growth and self-determination.