Ruth Davys
Vision Keeper
Ruth Davys is a Wiradjuri woman, an artist, educator, and passionate cultural advocate, whose work blends storytelling, art, and language to foster deeper connections with Country and community. A leader in cultural tourism, Ruth offers unique experiences that take visitors on guided walks along the Yindyamarra Sculpture Trail in Albury, immersing them in the rich heritage and stories of the Wiradjuri people.
Ruth's journey began in 2016, when she saw an opportunity to bring Wiradjuri language into the local community. With the help of a grant from Aboriginal Affairs NSW, she co-founded Giilangyaldhaanygalang with Dr. Pettina Love. This initiative began as a language project, introducing people to Wiradjuri through workshops, resources, and community engagement. Ruth’s deep connection to her culture and her desire to immerse herself and others in it led her to pursue further studies in Wiradjuri language and heritage, marking the beginning of her own cultural journey.
Today, Ruth's work has expanded beyond language into the realm of cultural tourism. She guides people through the Yindyamarra Sculpture Trail, which starts at the Kremur Street boat ramp in West Albury. The trail, which is a collaborative project involving Aboriginal work crews and artists, showcases sculptures that reflect the deep cultural significance of the land and people. Ruth’s tours offer more than just a walk; they are an opportunity to engage with the landscape, learn about the Wiradjuri language, and reflect on the connections between people and place.
The tours Ruth offers range from one-hour walks that cover the first loop of the trail to more immersive four-hour journeys that encompass the full experience. Along the way, Ruth incorporates Wiradjuri language, teaching visitors around 38 words, from everyday terms to names for animals and birds. Her deep love for her heritage and her desire to share it with others shine through in every conversation, every step of the journey.
Ruth's work with Giilangyaldhaanygalang, which started as a passion project, has grown into a platform for sharing Wiradjuri culture and language with the wider community. The free Yali Wiradjuri language resources available on YouTube, including the popular "Wiradjuri Puppets" series, have reached audiences far and wide. The success of these resources has led to the creation of additional cultural products, such as t-shirts, stickers, and posters, all designed to continue the conversation about Wiradjuri language and culture.
Although Ruth's role as the sole Vision Keeper of Giilangyaldhaanygalang marks a significant shift after Dr. Pettina Love’s retirement, Ruth remains committed to her mission of education and cultural preservation. Through workshops, market stalls, and guided tours, she continues to connect with schools, organizations, and individuals, offering them an opportunity to learn about Wiradjuri culture in an authentic and meaningful way.
Ruth's tours, available on demand, provide an enriching experience for those who wish to deepen their understanding of Wiradjuri culture and heritage. Whether you're a school group, a corporate team, or an individual traveler, Ruth invites you to walk the trail, listen to the stories, and connect with Country in a way that is both educational and deeply moving.
