Bring the spirit of the Australian bush into your classroom with the Gumbula Land Animals Cushions – Set of 8. Designed by celebrated Indigenous artist and Cultural Ambassador John Smith Gumbula, this remarkable collection showcases eight iconic Australian land animals through authentic Aboriginal artwork. Each cushion is a canvas of cultural storytelling, reflecting the sacred bond between Country, animals, and people. Featuring the koala (45cm), emu (40cm), pelican (46cm), kangaroo (47cm), kookaburra (40cm), echidna (43cm), cockatoo (47cm), and goanna (50cm), these cushions highlight biodiversity while fostering respect for First Nations heritage.
Carefully constructed from soft, durable fabrics and sized for comfort, these cushions are ideal for reading corners, yarning spaces, or collaborative play zones. Each piece combines cultural depth with functionality, encouraging students to connect with stories of land, tradition, and identity. As tools for inclusion, they not only support physical comfort but also prompt conversations about Indigenous knowledge systems and environmental responsibility. With vibrant colours and symbolic design, these cushions create immersive learning environments grounded in cultural appreciation.
Educational Benefits:
- Introduces students to culturally significant representations of native Australian fauna.
- Supports social-emotional development by reinforcing identity and belonging through visual storytelling.
- Encourages environmental education and respect for living beings connected to Country.
- Promotes intercultural understanding and discussion around Aboriginal perspectives.
Classroom Ideas:
- Set up a wildlife learning zone using the cushions as themed focal points for discovery.
- Encourage students to write or illustrate animal stories inspired by Indigenous artwork.
- Use during group circle time to open conversations about connection to land and heritage.
- Incorporate into activities for Reconciliation Week, NAIDOC Week, or cultural celebrations.
Information:
- Ages: Suitable for early learning and primary school environments
- Measurements: Koala – 45cm; Emu – 40cm; Pelican – 46cm; Kangaroo – 47cm; Kookaburra – 40cm; Echidna – 43cm; Cockatoo – 47cm; Goanna – 50cm
- Material: High-quality indoor fabric; soft and durable construction
- Care: Easy-care design for everyday classroom use
About the Artist:
JOHN SMITH GUMBULA
‘QEII SILVER JUBILEE QUEEN’S TRUST AWARDEE’
CULTURAL AMBASSADOR | SENIOR INDIGENOUS AFFAIRS ADVISOR | CHIEF CREATIVE
Biography brief:
Indigenous Artist Uncle John Smith Gumbula
Uncle John’s artistic and cultural journey began in the winter of 1978, at just 10 years of age, from a hospital bed in Mount Morgan, Queensland, following a diagnosis of Scheuermann’s disease. Spending long periods in and out of the hospital until he could walk again, he discovered a lifelong calling in creativity and cultural expression.
Since those formative years, Uncle John has devoted his life to championing Indigenous cultural affairs across the arts, education, technology, and innovation. A proud WakkaWakka | GorengGoreng man, with family ties across Queensland, New South Wales, and Western Australia. Uncle John proudly carries the ancient Scottish and Irish heritage of his Mother, and is honoured as an adopted son of the Yolŋu people of Galiwinku, Elcho Island. He carries a profound cultural responsibility and deep connection to Country.
As a recipient of the prestigious 'QEII Silver Jubilee Queen’s Trust Award', Uncle John has spent more than four decades working passionately across diverse creative mediums. His life’s work is dedicated to building cultural bridges of understanding—locally, nationally, and internationally—fostering respect, collaboration, and positive change between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Uncle John’s contemporary Aboriginal creations are born from personal cultural connection, expressed through vibrant colours and evolving creative styles developed over more than 40 years of artistic journey and lived experience.
