Yallum Jackey & Kitty

A rare photograph of unknown source and origin depicts Jackey Yallum and his wife Kitty on the property of John Riddoch in the early 1880s. Jackey, also known by his Aboriginal name Werrieotinna, and Kitty are recognised as the last known members of the Pinjunga people.

The Ngarrindjeri nation traditionally occupied the Lower River Murray, Lakes, and Coorong regions of South Australia. Within this nation were approximately 18 sub-groups or lakalinyeri, including the Pinjunga people, who lived in the area around Pina Ngula. (present-day Penola)

Jackey worked for nearly 40 years on Yallum Park, Riddoch’s estate located about 8 km west of Penola. He assisted with farming and camp-life arrangements. During summer Jackey and Kitty would go for a walkabout to the coastal area between Wingau (Robe) and Wilitjam (Southend) to socialise with other Pinjunga people and to enjoy the abundance of coastal tucker before returning to Yallum Park during the colder months.

Records indicate that Jackey died in 1902 in Adelaide, shortly after the death of John Riddoch in 1901. He is said to have left Yallum Park on his “last walkabout,” mourning the loss of his “good master” and reflecting on the generations of Pinjunga who had once lived on that land. A cenotaph bearing his name stands at West Terrace Cemetery in Adelaide, located at Road 1 South, Path 18, West‑2nd, Site 2.

The details of Kitty’s later life and passing remains uncertain. A similar memorial plaque listing her name at the Penola Cemetery suggests this may be her final resting place, though no registered grave has been identified.