Aboriginal Subsistence Strategies in Arid Australia
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Shovels
Shovels like this were used for uncovering tree roots from which water was extracted. The roots, mainly of Eucalyptus trees but also of some other species, were dug out, cut into lengths and the pieces set on end in a water bag into which the water drained. If necessary, during times of drought, Aboriginal people were able to obtain their total water supply in this way.
B.8522 Wooden shovel (78 cm long) used by Aboriginal people living between the Lachlan and Darling Rivers, New South Wales. Acquired 1885. Photo: S Humphreys.
