Wallabir
Artist
Lena Gurinyia
Datec 1985
Object number00000450
NameFish net
MediumString, twigs
DimensionsOverall: 700 x 870 mm
ClassificationsArt
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis string net is handmade from tree bark and used by a single fisher to catch small fish in shallow waters. It is typical of the equipment used by fishers in northern Australia.HistoryHandmade string from the inner bark of certain trees is used to make the traditional netted collecting bags and fish nets of northern Australia. The bark is stripped, then beaten or chewed to soften it, before it is rolled on the thigh or hip into lengths of string. Natural dyes, ochres and feathers may be used to decorate the bags.
The string lengths are spun onto a hooked stick that acts as a spindle and the resulting twine is then worked into netting using loops and knots.
The fish net has thin tree branches with the bark removed threaded through the outer loops of the net to provide handles and control during the fishing operation. A single operator will net small fish in shallow waters - rivers, mud flats, beaches, lakes and waterholes, especially the latter which become isolated when the wet season waters recede. The net is used to scoop up small fish. Sometimes family members will slap the water to scare the fish in the direction of the net operator.
While men traditionally made the tools and equipment required for hunting and fishing, today women as well as men make the string and nets.SignificanceA typical example of making use of the available resources for a practical purpose, this fish net made by Lena Gurinyia typifies the equipment of the fishers in central Arnhem Land.
