Indigenous Communities
There are several Aboriginal Communities along the Nullarbor which continue to practice traditional customs and retain their strong spiritual beliefs.
Prior permission is required to enter Aboriginal Communities and it is recommended that enquiries are made through the community administration office. Please also note that many communities are alcohol free and it is an offence to possess, sell, or transport alcohol through these communities. Fines apply if you break this law.
Below are a number of these communities:
- Ceduna - Tjutjunauku Worka Tjuta
- Koonibba Aboriginal Community
- Oak Valley - Maralinga Tjarutja Community
- Scotdesco Community
- Yalata Community
- Yarilena (08 8625 3822)
Oak Valley
Indigenous History
Anangu people of Western desert language groups (Pitjantjatjara / Yankunytjatjara) are the traditional owners of the coastal lands, undulating plains and the deserts regions surrounding the Nullarbor. Wirangu occupied the land east of the Head of Bight and the Mirning clans occupied the coast west to Eucla. Kokatha, Antakarinja and Ngalea occupied lands to the north and north-east. These groups are linked through cultural affiliations and traditional practices which they still embrace.
There are many registered historical Aboriginal archaeological sites spread across the Nullarbor including Allen's cave. This cave is located on the western plains and is the oldest archaeological site in arid Australia. There are 60 known archaeological sites on the Nullarbor revealing hand prints, paintings and flint tools. Many sites remain unregistered. Radiocarbon dating of cooking hearths and stone implements provides evidence that Aboriginal People have lived on the Nullarbor Plains for at least 40,000 years.
Indigenous Art and Culture
Much Indigenous culture and stories are often expressed through their art. There are many centres where you can experience this along the Nullarbor and information can be gathered at: http://www.visitaboriginalart.com