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Traditionally, the people moved away from the coast and stayed within the Mangkaja (paperbark shelters) which they built towards the end of Larja. These shelter were constructed using the trunks

(Melaeuca viridflora – large paperbark) as the framework and their bark as the roofing. The bark was cut according to the length required and through several layers to about the wood of the tree. It was then eased out gently and heated over a fire to flatten it.

The people would tighten down their shelters with Mirrilyi (rope) made from the Yirragulu (Acacia eriopodoa – pindan wattle) if they

Knew a Wirdu Wangal (cyclone) was coming. The change in wind direction and intensity was an indicator of this.

The constant rain soon soaks the Buru (ground). Waterholes fill up and soon the ground becomes drenched. Most of the rainwater lies on the surface and the plains and saline mudflats (eg. Gumbaranganjal

Roebuck Plains) becomes flooded.

Plants growth is rapid. The rain softened ground enables young shoots to push their way through to grow. Soon there is abundant plant growth everywhere.

In the black soil and sand dune areas, the Yarrinyarri (Cyperus bulbosus – bush onion) has made shoots and growth but its bulb will not be ready to gather until later,in the dryer seasons. It is believed that if the green plant is pulled up during Mankala, the smell of it will attract Jidama (lighting).