Aboriginals Bark Canoes of the Murray Valley

Robert Edwards

Published by South Australian Museum by Rigby, hardcover with dustjacket, illustrated

FOREWORD
This book describes the canoes of the Aborigines of Australia. In particular, it tells the story of the simple bark canoe of the Murray Valley and the large river population whose needs it served for many centuries. This apparently rudimentary craft they developed to extend their quest for food over the vast Murray-Darling basin.

The written history of the bark canoe is concurrent with the history of the European settlement of Australia and the early explorers who reported fleeting glimpses of them as Aborigines made their escape. The indigenous Australians had a great skill in manoeuvring their flimsy craft which astounded many early observers, and its practicability for efficient river travel was recognised by many inland explorers who made vain attempts to duplicate their construction. The flow of settlers along the inland watersheds hastened the disappearance of the Aborigines and their canoes. Ironically these same settlers, who lacked skill in the fabrication of bark canoes, were the ones who found them particularly useful for navigating their river frontages.
The advent of small boats followed by the massive paddle steamers spelt doom for the canoe and its maker.

By the turn of the century it was a rare sight to see an Aboriginal gliding along the river in his frail bark. Eventually the Aborigines themselves turned to European craft for transport.
Today all that remains are the large river gums with their scars. But these are important reminders that for thousands of years Australia was a land of Aborigines. Now in less than zoo years the indigenous culture has been all but destroyed. It is a responsibility and a privilege to make certain that the few remaining relics of this long occupation are preserved for the interest and enjoyment of future generations.

W. Grant Inglis
Director of Environment
and Conservation, South Australia