Transform learning spaces with the Boomerang Cushion Sacred Country Set of 3—a stunning tribute to Aboriginal art and storytelling designed by renowned artist John Smith Gumbula. Each cushion showcases intricate, authentic artwork that reflects sacred cultural connections to Country, bringing traditional motifs into modern, functional design. More than just soft seating, these uniquely shaped boomerang cushions serve as cultural storytelling tools, allowing children to engage with Indigenous knowledge systems through sight, touch, and imagination.
The cushions combine comfort with purpose. The removable, machine-washable covers make them ideal for classroom or high-traffic settings, while the rich, symbolic patterns encourage meaningful interaction. Their distinct boomerang shape invites discussions about their cultural role—not as toys, but as important tools used historically for hunting and ceremony. Whether used in reading corners, yarning circles, or reflective spaces, they offer children a tactile, inclusive way to connect with Aboriginal history and worldview.
This set is perfect for educators looking to create culturally responsive environments. It supports respectful conversation about sacred land, identity, and traditions, enriching children’s appreciation of Australia’s First Nations Peoples. By blending functionality with powerful visual storytelling, these cushions elevate any space into a dynamic and culturally safe learning zone.
Educational Benefits:
Promotes cross-cultural awareness and understanding through visual learning.
Supports social-emotional learning by providing calming, reflective seating.
Encourages students to explore the symbolism and significance of Aboriginal art.
Fosters storytelling, oral language development, and imaginative play.
Classroom Ideas:
Create a yarning circle using the cushions to facilitate inclusive group discussions.
Incorporate into cultural learning centres during NAIDOC and Reconciliation Week.
Pair with Dreamtime stories for immersive literacy and culture-based learning.
Use as sensory-friendly seating in mindfulness or calm zones.
Information:
Includes: 3 boomerang-shaped cushion covers and inserts
Measurements: 60 cm (W) x 60 cm (H) x 16 cm (D)
Material: Soft polyester velvet with memory foam insert
Care: Removable covers; machine washable in cold water
About the Artist:
JOHN SMITH GUMBULA
‘QEII SILVER JUBILEE QUEEN’S TRUST AWARDEE’
CULTURAL AMBASSADOR | SENIOR INDIGENOUS AFFAIRS ADVISOR | CHIEF CREATIVE
Biography brief:
Uncle John Smith Gumbula began his remarkable artistic and cultural journey at an early age in the winter of 1978 at the age of ten, from a hospital bed in Mount Morgan, Gangulu Country Queensland, after being diagnosed with Scheuermann’s disease a spinal condition that would become the unexpected catalyst for a lifetime of creative and cultural expression.
Today, Uncle John Smith Gumbula stands as a highly respected Cultural Ambassador, with over four decades of dedicated advocacy and leadership across the arts, cultural affairs, education, technology, and innovation. A proud Wakka Wakka | Gurang Gurang man, with Gamilaroi and Iman family lineage, Uncle John holds strong cultural connections with Indigenous communities across Queensland, and Nationwide.
As a proud adopted son of the Yolŋu people of Galiwin’ku (Elcho Island) in Arnhem Land, Uncle John carries with him a deep and diverse wealth of cultural knowledge, lived wisdom, traditional practices, and storytelling. His experience spans more than four decades, with a broad local and international footprint that has evolved across multiple industries, sectors, and diverse communities, making him a trusted and unifying voice in the journey toward reconciliation, cultural empowerment, inclusion, shared futures, and generational change.
On his late mother’s side, he also carries an ancient Irish and Scottish bloodline, creating a unique cultural identity that bridges First Nations and Celtic traditions.
Recipient of the prestigious ‘QEII Silver Jubilee Queen’s Trust Award’, Uncle John is internationally well versed and traveled, recognised for his passionate leadership in “creating cultural bridges of understanding on a world stage.” His passion, wisdom and philosophy is to inspire, and be inspired, we are teachers and students for each other on this dreaming pathway journey of life. Formulating diverse creative practice and cultural consultancy have evolved on his global journey, highlighting the cultural spiritual significance and celebrating Indigenous knowledge and wisdom, establishing cross-cultural strategic partnerships, and positioning meaningful educational creative inclusion across multiple sectors, and global nations.
“My Cultural Heritage proudly resonates in my Heart, Spirit, and Life, keeping culture strong and alive, spiritually and physically connecting me to Country.”
Uncle John Smith Gumbula - Aspiring Elder | Uncle & Grandfather
This furniture has a risk of falling over. Wall anchors should be used when an
item has a warning tip over label.
Children have died from furniture tipover.
ALWAYS secure this furniture with an anchor device.
NEVER allow children to stand, climb or hang on drawers, doors, or shelves.
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