Boiling water

As we had no metal, the art of boiling water was viewed as a special skill. Medicine (or “clever”) Men were the people who most often used this technique, using the boiled water to heal and make medicine. As you can appreciate, boiling water was a closely guarded secret, and due to the absence of metal was a very valuable skill.

For cultural reasons I cannot disclose the type of rocks used, and please do not try this with just any rock, as you will find that they might crack or explode on contact with the water and you could get hurt.

Using a large, deep purpose made Coolamon was one way, using it or the skin of freshly skinned Kangaroo as a basin. When using the skin one would dig a hole in the ground and place the skin inside, fur side down. This “pocket” would then be filled with water.

Special rocks were then heated within the fire. Once warm, the rocks were then pulled out and blown with tube to clean them.  They were then placed into the water, warming the water. Rocks would be changed making the water hotter and hotter until it boils.

It's important to warm the water before putting in hot rocks and remember don’t use just any rock as it may explode.

Unfortunately this information cannot be shared in greater detail but will (GOD willing) go to my children and their children - or in certain cases where someone shows exceptional courage or wisdom and earns the right, can we share this information as well.