LESSON 13.10 The cultural and spiritual significance of landscapes LEARNING INTENTION By the end of this lesson you should be able to: • explain the cultural significance of landscapes to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples • describe the lifestyle of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples in coastal areas • explain how coastal landscapes are managed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Tune in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are recognised as the first Australians. Evidence of their presence in Australia is found across the continent: in archaeological records, historical photographs and cultural heritage that has been passed down through the generations.
FIGURE1 Evidence from the past (a) A rock painting depicting a cloud or rain spirit was found in Western Australia’s Kimberley Region. (b) A photograph of a fish trap used by Aboriginal People on the Barwon River, NSW, in the late 1800s.
(b)
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1. How old do you think the rock art in FIGURE 1a might be? 2. What element of Aboriginal culture do you think is depicted in the rock art in FIGURE 1a? 3. How do you think the trap in FIGURE 1b functioned? 4. Why is it unlikely for us to find many traps like these remaining today?
13.10.1 The Australian context Landscapes are the product of processes that have operated for millions of years. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples of Australia have a deep understanding of the complex nature of Australia’s varying landscape. They have always nurtured the land, working alongside nature rather than always seeking to change or exploit it. European settlers who arrived in 1788, on the other hand, brought with them the concept of land ownership. They sought to change and adapt the landscape to meet their needs, often exploiting it for immediate benefits. The perspective of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples of Australia is one of belonging to the landscape, while the European perspective is based on the idea of owning land.
TOPIC13 Landforms and landscapes – diversity, significance and management 331
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