Long ago, during the dreaming, the earth was dark and cold. The people and animals lived together, sharing the land, but they had no fire to keep them warm or to cook their food. Among the animals, Karda the Goanna was known for his patience and cleverness.
One day, a fierce storm swept through the land, striking a tree with lightning. The tree caught fire, its flames crackling and casting a golden light across the plains. The people and animals gathered around, awed by the warmth, but none dared approach the fire, fearing its destructive power.
Karda, wise and brave, stepped forward. He knew the fire was a gift from the sky spirits and that it would benefit all creatures if used wisely. Carefully, he observed the flames and noticed that they didn’t harm the thick bark of the tree as much as they did softer materials.
Using his strong claws and sharp mind, Karda dug a tunnel beneath the burning tree and brought back a small ember in his mouth. He carried it to the people and taught them how to keep the fire alive by feeding it wood. He also showed them how to use fire responsibly for warmth, cooking, and protection but always with respect for its power.
In gratitude, the people honored Karda, painting his image on rocks and telling his story to their children. The goanna’s tracks, with their distinctive V-shaped footprints and tail drag, became a symbol of wisdom and persistence, guiding the people through the land.
Even today, when goannas are seen basking in the sun or moving steadily across the earth, they remind us of the balance between courage and caution, and the importance of respecting the gifts of nature.