Coolamons

Coolamons were at the heart of family life within the tribe.  The Coolamon was there at all meal times acting as a plate and cutting board.  Berries, yams and other vegetables were collected using the Coolamon as a carrying container. Water was also stored in it.  Large coolamons had another very important job.  Using the skin of a possum or wallaby placed inside for bedding, babies would sleep comfortably within its grasp, just like a travel cot!

Coolamons also provided a great way to make paint! Ochre was collected in the Coolamon, crushed and then had water added to make the paint that was used by our people to decorate the stories and places of our tribes.

This Aboriginal artefact is very versatile and has many uses.  It was made from drift wood, tree bark or burnt logs that were carved out and shaped. In the case of “medicine people” and special ceremonies, coolamons would be cut from green trees, using the outer layer of bark.  This technique would scar the tree! Many scar trees can be found all over Australia.  Scars when created when making coolamons and shields which were then used to heal our people or defend our warriors from spear and boomerang attacks!