We were warmly welcomed by the Karen community of Katanning at their chosen meeting place — a farm that has become an important gathering space for them.
A generous feast had been prepared, along with grapefruit mixed with spices. Children ran around, excited and curious, adding energy to the day.
The gathering began when Grandfather Way Moo blew the buffalo horn. The sound carried clearly across the farm and signalled the start of the occasion. It was explained that the horn is only used at significant moments. It serves as a call to gather.
The story behind it tells of two buffalo — one wild and one domestic — that fought and both died. Grandfather Pumoto took a horn from each animal and gave them to two separate groups. He instructed them to use the horns if they were ever apart, so they could call one another back together.
For the Karen people, the Kwa, the buffalo horn, represents unity — a reminder of connection and the importance of coming together.
