Thuuth and his sons, the Apelech brothers, are part of a creation story integral to all five ceremonial groups of the Wik people. ‘Big Father’ Thuuth taught his sons the body-markings, songs and customs associated with his country, giving them the knowledge with which to fashion the Wik people.

The Apelech brothers travelled south, from Love River to Kendall River, creating the clans and teaching them their languages, songs, dances and totems. While travelling, the brothers are said to have fought and parted ways, never to see each other again. The younger brother — the shorter figure with white spots — is identified with the coast; and the older brother — the taller figure with the banded design — is associated with the inland region.