Ngini Ngawila Yoyi (Tiwi Totems)

Tiwi totems are significant to the Tiwi people who inherit these cultural identities from members of their family. This totem is then forever held by that person. They identify with it and other members of the community who have the same totem. They also perform the yoyi (dance) associated with the totem at ceremonies. They often take animal form and include iconic Tiwi species such as, Jukurrukukuni (Boobook Owl), Yirrikipayi (Crocodile), Jarrangini (Buffalo), Tartuwali (Shark), Jilarti (Brolga) and many more, but they also sometimes take the form of other significant objects such as Kapala (Sailing Boat).