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We drove along the Gibb river road for what seemed like hours. Along the way we spotted a Barni Roadkill. It was swollen from the heat, it looked really surreal. The children who were with us on the journey were really excited. Barni hunting is a significant event for the Indigenous communities. As these lizards (which can grow to huge length) burrow into the ground, traditional methods draw them out and the chase begins. Once captured, they are thrown onto the hot coals and charred. Some communities keep the meat partially raw as the blood is important. The meat is shared by all.

Catalogue code:
Aboriginal_day of the barni1

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Catalogue code:
Aboriginal_day of the barni2

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Catalogue code:
Aboriginal_day of the barni3

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Catalogue code:
Aboriginal_day of the barni4

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Catalogue code:
Aboriginal_day of the barni5

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Before Derby was established in 1883, Aboriginal people were kidnapped from the West Kimberley.
The kidnappers were settlers who were connected with the pearling boats. They rounded people up, put them in chains and marched them to the coast. Many were held captive in appalling conditions within the Boab Prison Tree while waiting for a boat.

Catalogue code:
Aboriginal_boab prison tree

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