Gurray is a New Keyboard App That Translates English Into Indigenous Languages

Say hello to Gurray, a groundbreaking mobile keyboard app that promotes the preservation of Inidgenous Australian languages. The app, named after the Wiradjuri word for "change" or "refreshment", is already being praised as a cultural milestone just a few short weeks after it's release.

Gurray offers a unique feature that allows users to seamlessly switch between English and multiple Indigenous languages, including Barngarla, Latji Latji, Mutti Mutti, Nari Nari, Tati Tati, Wadi Wadi, and Yorta Yorta. This integration is crucial in bridging linguistic divides and elevating the use of Indigenous languages in everyday communication.

The app works intuitively: as you type in English, Gurray suggests contextually relevant words in your chosen Indigenous language. With a simple tap, the English text is replaced with the Indigenous word, making the process of language switching straightforward and user-friendly. This feature is particularly significant as it aids in preserving these languages, encouraging their use in regular communication.

Developed by the WCC (Wiradjuri Condobolin Corporation) Language Program, Gurray is leaps and bounds beyond your standard translation tool - It's an educational resource that complements traditional teaching methods and physical resources. The app is designed to cater to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, promoting cultural exploration and language learning.

Experts in Indigenous languages, like Dr. Doug Marmion from the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies, see Gurray as a potential game-changer. It's not only a tool for learning but also for regular use in communication, which is essential for language retention and revival.

Gurray's significance extends beyond language learning; it's about maintaining a connection to heritage and identity. Indigenous languages are not just means of communication; they are links to ancestors, culture, and the land. By integrating these languages into modern technology, Gurray helps keep these connections alive and relevant in the digital era.

In addition to the app, the WCC Language Program has developed other resources like a mobile dictionary app with audio pronunciations and physical items such as board games, further supporting the learning and preservation of Indigenous languages.

Gurray is available for free download on both iOS and Android devices, ensuring global accessibility and contributing to the cultural tapestry of Indigenous culture. To learn more about the Indigenous language preservation initiatives, head over to our blog!