Max Harrison

Max Dulumunmun Harrison (29 February 1936 – 11 December 2021) was an Elder of the Yuin Nation and a distinguished educator, author and cultural guide whose work bridged ancient Lore and contemporary society. Raised on the South Coast of New South Wales, Uncle Max was introduced as a young boy to Country, bush-tucker and medicine, ceremony and Yuin law by his grandfather and uncles.

Throughout his life he carried the three truths he said shaped his teaching: “See the land… the beauty; Hear the land… the story; Feel the land… the spirit.” As a man of both tradition and innovation, Max walked thousands of people across Country architects, students, researchers and political leaders, using Country as classroom and ceremony as lesson. He was widely consulted on land rights and cultural planning, and shared platforms with leaders globally.

He is also the author of My People’s Dreaming, where he wrote: “The teachings I reveal in this book are the living treasures of my life. The traditional knowledge I talk about includes Creation Dreaming, bush lore, foods and healing, laws and punishment, spirituality and relationship to the land.” Uncle Max served as a cultural advisor to Australia’s architectural profession, ensuring built projects responded to Country with respect and understanding.

Max’s legacy lies in the deep, grounded spiritual practice he carried, his generosity in sharing culture and his quiet authority as a Yuin Lore-man. He leaves a lasting imprint on Yuin Country, education and intercultural dialogue.