A Yarning Circle's View, Victoria, Australia

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While walking on a trail through a banksia forest on small island in Southeastern Victoria, a large and beautifuly sculpted dead tree in the distance caught my attention. After getting closer I saw a circular open area covered with brown gravel adjacent to the tree. Inside the gravel circle were several pieces of a big log, also arranged in a circle and placed on end like seats. Along the edge of the gravel closest to the water, not far beyond the right side of the photograph, were a group of head-high wooden posts. They were carved with aboriginal designs, small parts of which were painted sky blue.

If I was with a few others it would be a wonderful spot to sit and chat. It took considerable work to create this place in the middle of nowhere. I had to wonder why it was done. I saw that the place was labeled "yarning circle" on a trail map. That didn't tell me much, probably because I've only been here for a few years. It did inspire me to find out what a yarning circle is.

A yarning circle (or dialogue circle) is a deeply rooted Indigenous tradition practiced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for thousands of years. It serves as a collaborative, respectful space for people to sit together, share knowledge, preserve culture, and resolve issues as a collective.

Sitting in a Circle allows conversation and sharing to flow naturally - allowing all members of the group to be seen clearly, facing each other, and placed equally around the Circle. Unlike a formal meeting with a single authority figure, a yarning circle empowers all participants to speak on equal footing. A nice environment puts everyone at ease. Participants practice mindful, non-hierarchical listening. People build upon the ideas of others.

Today yarning circles are actively used in Australian schools, universities, workplaces, and community organizations to foster inclusive dialogue, build cultural awareness, and consult with local Indigenous communities. Physically, they often appear as actual circular gathering spaces in parks or campuses, often featuring seating designed to welcome collaboration. Before bushfires became so severe, outdoor yarning circles often contained a central fire pit.