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Interpreting

An interpreter is someone who:
  • at minimum, is bilingual
  • understands the specialised language of their workplace
  • is confident
  • is able to switch quickly between languages
  • has appropriate accreditation
  • acknowledges and follows their Code of Ethics

Interpreters use their voice. They listen to one party and repeat what was said in the other party's language. They do not contribute anything of their own to the communication. Importantly, interpreting is NOT the explanation by an interpreter to person B of their understanding of the message conveyed by person A. Further, an interpreter is NOT merely someone whose capacity is that of conversational English.

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Interpreting is the precise transfer by an interpreter of the content of a message received from person A in their first language, to person B in their first language. Broadly, it is the achievement of effective communication between language groups. It can be simultaneous interpretation, where the interpreter speaks at the same time as the presenter is speaking or consecutive interpretation, where the presenter pauses after delivering short sentences for the interpreter to interpret what has just been said.

BOWDEN McCORMACK provides quality Murrinh-patha interpretation across a wide range of situations, particularly on-location at Wadeye, in conjunction with the Thamarrurr Regional Council, on behalf of government representatives and for the purpose of "on country" research. We are also able to offer our services in the specialised field of group interpreting and facilitation.