Tune In To Saltwater Country
Join Emma Robertson and discover the Tasmanian Aboriginal peoples' connections to kelp in the Great Southern Reef
Maria Island, Tasmania by Stefan AndrewsOriginal Source: @ocean_imaging
Women’s Country
Since time began, Saltwater Country has been women's Country for the Tasmanian Aboriginal People, the palawa people. Unmatched by men, the women were skilled divers and swimmers, tasked with gathering food such as abalone and shellfish.
Southern Rock Lobster Crayfish by Stefan AndrewsOriginal Source: @ocean_imaging
Australian Fur Seal (Arctocephalus pusillus) by Gergo RugliOriginal Source: www.rugliphoto.com
Impacts of colonisation
This outstanding feat of fitness also proved a curse as colonisation brought with it sealers.
Seal in kelp by Stefan AndrewsOriginal Source: @ocean_imaging
Seaweeds, TAS by Stefan AndrewsOriginal Source: @ocean_imaging
Seaweed for wellness and healing
The women collected seaweeds, kelp and plant resources for practical and medicinal people - their skills and knowledge, invaluable to the health and well-being of their people.
Bull Kelp Split Shot by Stefan AndrewsOriginal Source: @ocean_imaging
A vessel for health and hydration
Kelp was a vital resource for the carrying of fresh water across Country. With the natural leaching of its rich vitamins and minerals into the water, kelp vessels provided a source of nourishment, health and hydration.
Water Carriers made from Seaweed by Emma RobertsonGreat Southern Reef Foundation
Woman in kelp by Nick GreenGreat Southern Reef Foundation
A source of safety
Kelp was also a source of safety for divers and small forest creatures in the depths of the ocean - the ecosystems ideal for hunting and gathering.
Bull Kelp in Rough Waters by Stefan AndrewsOriginal Source: @ocean_imaging
A spiritual and symbolic connection
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples connection to Country is more than just physical. It's a spiritual and symbolic connection - a source of pride, belonging, strength, resilience, identity and collective knowledge.
Giant kelp under heat stress by Stefan AndrewsOriginal Source: @ocean_imaging
Sustaining life and culture
Just like the palawa peoples' connection to Country, kelp forests are essential to the sustainability of the marine ecosystems, and the planet as a whole.
Golden Kelp Seaweed Diversity by Stefan AndrewsOriginal Source: @ocean_imaging
Protecting the kelp forests
Only by working together can we look at ways to protect our Great Southern Reef and the ocean forests around the world.
Kelp Forest from the Sky by Stefan AndrewsOriginal Source: @ocean_imaging
The fight to prevent change
Kelp forests must be protected, revitalized and reforested to fight climate change - and to ensure the continuation of the oldest living culture on the planet.
About Emma Robertson
Emma is a proud palawa woman, An artist and Cultural Practitioner, passionate about exploring new ideas, pushing the boundaries, and exploring new mediums.
She enjoys using natural materials in contemporary designs, artworks, and jewellery, such as kelp, fibres, quills, and shells.
Kelp Installation by Emma RobertsonGreat Southern Reef Foundation
Emma hopes to explore public art and sculpture while expanding skills and knowledge in photography and digital design. She aims for sustainable design and create meaningful art that sparks emotions.
Kelp Painting by Emma RobertsonOriginal Source: Emma Robertson Designs
Emma aims to create art that is rooted in her culture and resonates with people worldwide - ultimately using art to create positive change in the world and the environment.
Sea Country - a Great Southern Reef film exploring Tasmanian Aboriginal connection to kelp forests.Great Southern Reef Foundation
Watch "Sea Country" and learn more about Tasmania's Aboriginal peoples' connection to the Great Southern Reef
To keep up to date with the latest GSR information and initiatives, visit our website and sign up for our newsletter. Our Educator Hub also offers teachers and students downloadable lesson plans to use in the classroom.
Story and recording by Emma Robertson
Imagery by Stefan Andrews
Diver in kelp image by Nick Green
Shell and kelp artwork images by Emma Robertson (see more)
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