Soa - ceremonial paddles
The Buka people were seafarers and could navigate by the stars but we relied on paddles and were not sailors like our Polynesian brothers of Nuguria (Mortlock) and Nukumanu (Tasman) Islands to the East. We are, however, expert oarsmen. The paddle is an important tool and symbol of strength, adventure and manhood, and as such was featured in ceremonies. Elaborately decorated for ceremonies, the protective symbol of the spirit god (Roko) is seated "in state". The handles of some paddles stress the spirit world with high relief faces and Upe hat.
I learnt to paddle from an early age. Unlike the ceremonial paddle, the normal everyday paddle is much thinner and flexible, enabling it to cut through the water with less drag to enhance speed. To this day I have never learnt to use the European paddle or oar, which in my view is heavy and cumbersome.
Moses Havini
From left to right: Paddles, length 139cm, 110cm, 117cm and 122cm. From Buka Island, acquired by the Australian Museum in 1885 from R Parkinson and Captain Farrell. Photo: C Bento.
From top to bottom: Paddles, length 117cm, 122cm, 134cm, 139cm and 117cm. From Buka Island, acquired by the Australian Museum in 1885 from R Parkinson and Captain Farrell. Photo: C Bento.
Copyright © Australian Museum, 2003
