UNPOPULAR OPINION - There are NO FAE in Australia

Why We Don’t Have “Fae” in Australia: The Problem with Forcing European Spirits onto Indigenous Land (Unpopular Opinion)

There’s no denying that the fae—those elusive, magical creatures of European folklore—have captured the imaginations of many modern witches, pagans, and spiritual practitioners around the world. For some, working with the fae is almost a rite of passage, a way to connect with nature’s magic. But here’s where things get tricky: in Australia, the fae have no place. In fact, trying to force them into our spiritual practices here isn’t just a mismatch—it’s problematic. It dismisses the deep spiritual connections that exist between the land and the Indigenous cultures who have been its caretakers for tens of thousands of years. It’s a form of cultural erasure that we, as modern practitioners, need to acknowledge and avoid.

This might be an unpopular opinion in global witchcraft communities, but I’m here to argue that we need to stop imposing the fae onto Australian land. Instead, we should be focusing on the rich, ancient spiritual traditions that belong to this land and the spirits that have always been a part of it.

The Fae: A European Construct

The Origins of the Fae

First, let’s break down where the fae come from and why they are so deeply connected to European landscapes and cultural traditions. The generic concept of the fae that we all know about, is rooted in Celtic mythology, particularly in Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. These beings are tied to the rolling green hills, misty forests, and sacred groves of Europe. They inhabit liminal spaces—places where the human world and the otherworld intersect, like the boundary between a meadow and a forest, or the shore where land meets the sea.

Fae spirits are known for being mischievous, playful, sometimes helpful, and often dangerous. They are the hidden folk of the land, and their stories have been passed down through European folklore for centuries. The fae are an intrinsic part of the cultural identity in these regions, tied to specific landscapes, weather patterns, and ways of life. In other words, they belong to the places from which they were born.

Why the Fae Don’t Belong in Australia

When modern witches, particularly those with European backgrounds, attempt to work with the fae in Australia, they are effectively uprooting these spirits from their natural habitat and trying to transplant them into a completely different landscape. The fae belong to the emerald forests of Europe, not the dry, rugged, ancient land of Australia. This continent has its own spiritual energy, its own spirits, and its own history.

The issue here goes beyond a simple mismatch between spirit and land—it ventures into the realm of cultural erasure. By bringing the fae into Australian spiritual practices, we are, in many ways, ignoring or dismissing the spirits and entities that already reside here. This kind of dismissal is problematic because it reinforces the colonial mindset that has already done so much harm to Indigenous cultures in Australia.

The Problem with Forcing European Spirits onto Indigenous Land

Cultural Erasure and the Colonial Mindset

Australia has a long and painful history of colonisation, one that involved not just the physical displacement of Indigenous peoples, but also the erasure of their cultures and spiritual practices. European settlers brought with them their own belief systems, often imposing these beliefs onto the land and its people. This included everything from the introduction of Christianity to the suppression of Indigenous languages and ceremonies.

In the spiritual community, we like to think we’re beyond that kind of colonial mindset. But when we impose European folklore—like the fae—onto Australian land, we are perpetuating a similar kind of cultural erasure. We are prioritising European spiritual traditions over the traditions that belong to this land. We’re taking something foreign and imposing it onto a place where it simply doesn’t belong, while ignoring the rich spiritual history that already exists here.

Ignoring the Spirits of the Land

The land in Australia is ancient, and it is already inhabited by its own spirits—spirits that are deeply tied to the natural world, the Dreaming, and the Indigenous cultures that have existed here for tens of thousands of years. These spirits are not the playful, mischievous fae of European folklore. They are powerful, often protective, and deeply rooted in the landscape.

By focusing on the fae, we’re ignoring these spirits. We’re choosing to work with imported folklore rather than connecting with the land we live on. This is not only disrespectful to the Indigenous cultures that have always honoured these spirits, but it’s also a missed opportunity for modern practitioners to deepen their connection to the land. Working with the spirits of the land can offer a far more powerful and meaningful spiritual experience than trying to force a connection with spirits that don’t belong here.

The Problem of Appropriation

While the fae may not be directly appropriating Indigenous spiritual practices, the issue lies in the broader cultural context. When we import European spiritual traditions into a place like Australia, we are, in a sense, continuing the colonial tradition of prioritising European culture over Indigenous culture. This kind of cultural dominance is a form of appropriation, even if it’s not as overt as stealing specific rituals or symbols.

In Australia, we have to be especially mindful of the ways in which Indigenous cultures have been marginalised and erased. Spiritual practitioners should be conscious of this history and strive to honour the spirits of the land rather than continuing the colonial practice of imposing foreign beliefs onto Indigenous soil.

What Spirits Do Belong in Australia?

Now that we’ve discussed why the fae don’t belong here, let’s turn our attention to the spirits that do. Australia is home to an incredibly rich spiritual landscape, one that is deeply connected to the natural world and the Dreaming stories of Indigenous cultures.

The Dreaming Spirits and Ancestral Beings

The most important spiritual entities in Australia are those that come from the Dreamtime, or Dreaming. The Dreaming encompasses the creation stories of Indigenous peoples and describes how the land, animals, and people were formed by ancestral spirits. These spirits are not just stories—they are living entities that continue to inhabit the land and influence the lives of those who honour them.

• The Rainbow Serpent: One of the most well-known Dreamtime spirits is the Rainbow Serpent, a powerful being associated with water, creation, and fertility. The Rainbow Serpent is said to have shaped the land, creating rivers and valleys with its movements. This spirit is far more tied to the Australian landscape than any fae could ever be.

• Mimi Spirits: In the Northern Territory, Mimi spirits are believed to live in the rocks and caves. They are thin, human-like figures often depicted in Aboriginal rock art. These spirits are similar to European trickster spirits in that they can be mischievous, but they are also deeply tied to the land and the specific cultural context of the region.

Water Spirits of Australia

Australia is home to many water spirits, some of which bear a superficial resemblance to the fae or other European nature spirits, but are unique to this land.

• Bunyip: A creature from Aboriginal mythology, the Bunyip is said to live in swamps, rivers, and billabongs. It’s a fearsome water spirit, often associated with danger and mystery. Unlike the playful water fae of European folklore, the Bunyip is a powerful, sometimes malevolent entity that demands respect.

• Yawk Yawk: Sometimes described as freshwater mermaids, Yawk Yawks live in rivers and waterholes in Northern Australia. These spirits are often associated with fertility and protection, but they are also deeply tied to the land and the water sources that sustain it. Unlike European fae, Yawk Yawks are not here to play tricks or grant wishes—they are protectors of their environment.

Spirits of the Land

The land itself in Australia is filled with powerful spirits, many of which are connected to the flora, fauna, and landscape features.

• Tree and Rock Spirits: In Indigenous Australian belief, trees and rocks can be homes for spirits. Eucalyptus trees, for example, are often considered sacred, and certain rock formations, like Uluru, are seen as being inhabited by ancestral spirits. These land spirits are not whimsical or mischievous like the fae—they are protective, powerful, and deeply tied to the natural world.

• Animal Totems: Indigenous Australians have a close spiritual relationship with animals, many of which serve as totems or spirit guides for different tribes. These animal spirits, whether they are kangaroos, eagles, or dingoes, are not just representations of the physical animal—they are spiritual beings that offer protection, guidance, and wisdom.

it’s important to mention here that different mob and family groups may have different spirits and different stories to share making your personal research to your local area important.

The Role of Modern Australian Practitioners

As modern spiritual practitioners in Australia, we have a responsibility to respect the land and its spirits. This means acknowledging the spirits that already inhabit the land and avoiding the temptation to import foreign spirits, like the fae, into our practices.

Reclaiming Connection to the Land

One of the most powerful things we can do as modern practitioners is to connect with the land we live on. This means learning about the Indigenous history of the area, understanding the spirits that belong here, and finding ways to work with them respectfully. Instead of focusing on the fae, we can deepen our practice by honouring the land spirits, water spirits, and ancestral beings that have always been a part of Australia.

Honouring Indigenous Traditions Without Appropriation

It’s important to note that while we can honour the spirits of the land, we must do so without appropriating Indigenous traditions. This requires a deep understanding of the difference between respectful acknowledgment and cultural theft. We should always approach the spirits of the land with humility and respect, understanding that these beings are part of a spiritual tradition that is not ours to take.

One way to do this is by learning about the history of the area where we live and honouring the Indigenous people who are its traditional custodians. This could involve participating in cultural events, supporting Indigenous-led initiatives, and being mindful of the sacredness of the land.

A Call for Change

At the heart of this argument is a simple truth: the fae don’t belong in Australia because we already have a rich, powerful, and ancient spiritual landscape that deserves our attention and respect. Forcing European spirits like the fae onto this land not only perpetuates a colonial mindset, but it also erases the Indigenous spiritual traditions that have always been a part of Australia.

As modern practitioners, we have the opportunity to create a more respectful and authentic spiritual practice by connecting with the land we live on and honouring the spirits that belong here. The fae may be fun, but they are not necessary—especially when we have such a wealth of spiritual beings already present in the land, water, and sky of Australia.

So, the next time you’re tempted to call on the fae, consider this: why not connect with the spirits that have always been here instead? You might just find that the magic of Australia’s land is far more potent than anything imported from across the sea.

What Else Can We Do?

When it comes to learning about Aboriginal culture and incorporating a respectful understanding of Indigenous spirituality into your practice, it's essential to approach the subject with care, respect, and a commitment to not appropriating sacred traditions. Many Indigenous spiritual practices are closed to outsiders, but you can still educate yourself on the culture, land, and history of Australia’s First Nations peoples in ways that honour their stories.

Here are some recommended resources for further reading:

Books

1. "Dark Emu" by Bruce Pascoe - This book explores the advanced agricultural practices of Indigenous Australians and challenges the commonly held view that they were solely hunter-gatherers. It's a great resource for understanding the deep connection between Aboriginal people and the land.

1. "The Biggest Estate on Earth: How Aborigines Made Australia" by Bill Gammage - Gammage argues that Aboriginal people systematically managed the landscape using fire and other means to shape ecosystems. It gives insight into the harmonious relationship Indigenous Australians had with the land for thousands of years.

2. "Sand Talk: How Indigenous Thinking Can Save the World" by Tyson Yunkaporta - In this thought-provoking book, Yunkaporta shares insights into Indigenous wisdom and how it can provide solutions to modern global problems. It offers a unique view into Indigenous thinking about land, sustainability, and community.

3. "Welcome to Country: A Travel Guide to Indigenous Australia" by Marcia Langton - While it's a travel guide, this book is also a rich source of knowledge about Aboriginal culture, customs, and the significance of country. It helps Australians understand the protocols and customs when visiting sacred and important sites.

4. "Voices of the First Day: Awakening in the Aboriginal Dreamtime" by Robert Lawlor - This book delves deeply into Aboriginal spirituality, cosmology, and Dreamtime, providing a broad overview of their worldview and spiritual practices.

5. "Aboriginal Men of High Degree" by A.P. Elkin - A study on the role of shamans or spiritual healers in Aboriginal culture. While some parts of this book may be dated, it still offers an interesting perspective on the spiritual roles of Indigenous Australians.

Articles and Journals

1. The Koori Mail - An Aboriginal-owned and controlled newspaper that provides up-to-date news and stories on Aboriginal culture, rights, and community. It's a great way to stay connected to current issues.

2. "Aboriginal Australia and the Birth of the Cool" by Bruce Pascoe (Griffith Review) - A short, reflective piece on the ongoing relationship between Indigenous Australians and the land, exploring themes of knowledge and cultural continuity.

Online Resources

1. Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS)

   • Website: https://aiatsis.gov.au
   • AIATSIS is a research institute dedicated to the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Their resources include books, collections, and a wealth of articles about Indigenous knowledge, history, and culture.

2. Common Ground

   • Website: https://www.commonground.org.au
   • Common Ground is a not-for-profit organisation sharing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories, and stories. It offers resources to help non-Indigenous Australians learn about the customs and spiritual beliefs of Aboriginal peoples.

3. The Lowitja Institute

   • Website: https://www.lowitja.org.au
   • Named after Dr. Lowitja O’Donoghue, this institute is Australia's national institute for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health research. It includes important discussions about cultural safety and community well-being.

4. Indigenous Australia – Australian Government

   • Website: https://www.indigenous.gov.au
   • This government-run website offers insight into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, including current initiatives and historical information about the Indigenous connection to land and country.

Cultural Protocols and Guidelines

1. "Working with Indigenous Australians" by Indigenous Corporate Training Inc.

   • Website: https://www.ictinc.ca
   • A resource for learning about protocols for working respectfully with Indigenous peoples. It provides guidelines that can help witches and spiritual practitioners in Australia understand how to approach Indigenous cultures with respect.

2. "AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research"

   • Website: https://aiatsis.gov.au/research/ethical-research
   • This resource is particularly useful for those conducting research or writing about Aboriginal culture. It provides guidelines on conducting research in a way that respects and honours Indigenous knowledge systems.

Documentaries and Films

1. "First Australians" (TV Series)

   • This award-winning documentary series tells the story of Australia from the perspective of its Indigenous people, exploring the deep history and cultural continuity of Aboriginal Australians.

2. "The Australian Dream"

   • A documentary that explores the life of Indigenous AFL footballer Adam Goodes, while diving into the deeper issues of race, identity, and cultural pride in Australia.

3. "In My Own Words"

   • A documentary about teaching literacy to older Aboriginal Australians, exploring the power of language and its importance in cultural preservation.

Recommendations for Practitioners

While these resources provide a strong foundation for understanding Aboriginal culture, it’s crucial to remember that learning about Indigenous spirituality comes with the responsibility of ensuring cultural respect and avoiding appropriation. Here are some tips:

1. Engage in Continuous Learning: Indigenous culture is complex and varies across different regions in Australia. Be open to learning from various sources and voices.

2. Respect Closed Practices: Many Aboriginal spiritual practices are sacred and should not be adopted or imitated by non-Indigenous people. Always ask for guidance from Indigenous communities if you’re uncertain about what is acceptable.

3. Support Indigenous Voices: Whenever possible, purchase books, art, and other works directly from Indigenous creators and support initiatives that promote Indigenous sovereignty.

4. Focus on Local Connections: Consider learning about the specific Indigenous groups that belong to the area you live in. This can help you build a more authentic relationship with the land you practice on.

By immersing yourself in these resources and approaching Indigenous culture with humility and respect, you’ll be better equipped to practice witchcraft in Australia in a way that honours the rich spiritual landscape you’re standing on.