Boomerangs

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Boomerangs have been an important hunting implement for Aborigines for as far back as anyone can remember. They appear in two basic shapes, the traditional modified wedge shape and a shape that is a pronounced "L" with a protruding heal on the base. The latter shape is more lethal and the two shapes often are used together. When hunting for birds, for example, the more aerodynamic shape may be thrown above a flock on the ground. This startles them into flight, whereupon a second boomerang, with a more deadly shape, is thrown.

Understanding the important role boomerangs play in Aboriginal life, it is easy to understand why they so often are decorated. Older boomerangs were decorated by fluting, incising designs that were highlighted with ochre or charcoal and poker-burning. More recent designs have incorporated the patterns and techniques of desert dot paintings.

We have acquired some of the finest examples of both during our trips to the Australian outback. They are shown below.

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