Ningher canoe model
Date2020
Object number00055769
NameModel canoe
MediumBark and reeds
DimensionsOverall: 390 × 1550 × 350 mm
ClassificationsModels
Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection
DescriptionNingher canoe model constructed by Sheldon Thomas. Made from of locally sourced material in Tasmania, including juncus reed to provide buoyancy and bindings that lash the canoe together made of swamp grass and bushman's bootstraps.
SignificanceAs an island culture, canoes played a significant part of the lives of Tasmanian Aboriginal people. The practice of building a ningher is being revived by a small number of Aboriginal people such as Sheldon Thomas who is regarded as a leading practitioner.This canoe type is the traditional watercraft of Tasmanian Aboriginal people and is unique and highly functional to its local environment.
