The Binjang Story
In the heart of Nanima, Wellington NSW, lies the soul-stirring beauty of Binjang, a piece of country that cradled my beloved grandmother, Reen Stewart, my father, his siblings, and our cherished mob.
It's a name that resonates with the echoes of childhood laughter, whispered stories, and the enduring spirit of family.
You know, it doesn't really matter where you find yourself indulging in a warm cup of tea – be it by the coastline, in a foreign land, amidst the tranquility of the bush, in solitude, surrounded by loved ones, or even at your workplace.
A cup of tea has this incredible ability to initiate conversations, prompting reflections on cherished places, special memories, and the remarkable individuals who have touched our lives.
It's this unique experience that I aspire for people to encounter when they take a sip of Binjang tea – a moment to pause, inhale deeply, reminisce, and relish every flavorful drop.
The infusion of native ingredients in my tea blends, from the bush tomato and strawberry gum to the wattle seed, offers a taste of the extraordinary native plants that have been a part of my people's heritage for countless generations.
Through Binjang tea, I aim to share my culture with pride and enthusiasm, inviting everyone to savor a cuppa that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also carries the rich history of my heritage.
After the untimely departure of my grandmother, my great Aunt and Uncle stepped into the roles of nurturing my father and his siblings.
Words fail to express the depth of my gratitude for these incredible Aunties, Uncles, and the extended family who enveloped us with love and guidance. Their unwavering support shaped my father's journey, and in turn, my own.
Reflecting on my childhood visits to the many houses scattered across Binjang, I am flooded with warm memories of meeting our vast and vibrant mob.
The sense of community was palpable, and as a young child, I reveled in the joyous gatherings. At every doorstep, the familiar refrain echoed, 'You wanna cuppa'? It was more than just tea; it was a ritual of connection, a catalyst for stories, laughter, and shared moments that wove the fabric of our family tapestry.
The inspiration for my tea (dyiri) business unfolded organically through countless yarns with my father and family over the years. Each conversation painted vivid portraits of my father's childhood, our rich culture, the profound connection to country, and the resilient spirit of the Wellington community.
And it all began with a simple cuppa – a vessel of warmth that carried the weight of countless stories, leaving me longing for more.
In every leaf and every blend, Binjang Tea is a tribute to those cherished moments, a homage to the legacy of our ancestors, and a heartfelt endeavor to share the beauty of our culture, one cuppa at a time.
