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  • Writer's pictureAvalon Karatau

Day 11: Discovering the Scar Trees and Bangarang Art #Sporties.


G’day folks! It’s your favourite outback adventurer, we're, back with another yarn from the bush. Today, we’re diving into something a bit different—something with a deep cultural significance and a touch of Coight-style clumsiness. We’re talking about the ancient scar trees near Sporties and the incredible art of the Bangarang people.



A Sacred Encounter: Our day began with a visit to some of the most culturally significant sites in the area—the ancient scar trees. Now, for those of you who aren’t familiar, these trees have been carefully scarred by the Bangarang people over centuries, leaving marks that tell stories of survival, culture, and connection to the land. The scars were made when bark was removed to craft canoes, shields, and coolamons, without harming the tree. Pretty nifty, huh?

Of course, my attempt to explain this to the group ended up with me tripping over a root and almost head-butting the very tree I was talking about. But, as I always say, if you’re not close to nature, you’re not doing it right!



Art in the Heart of the Bush: After our close encounter with the scar trees, we ventured deeper into the bush to discover some incredible Bangarang art. Now, I’m no art critic, but even I could tell that these pieces were something special. The Bangarang people have a way of capturing the spirit of the land, the animals, and their ancestors in their art. The colours, patterns, and stories woven into each piece are truly mesmerizing.

In true Coight fashion, I tried my hand at creating my own piece of bush art. Let’s just say the result looked more like a map of where I’d tripped and fallen throughout the day than anything culturally significant. But hey, art is about expression, right?



Lessons Learned: Spending time among the scar trees and Bangarang art was a humbling experience. It reminded me that the land we often take for granted is rich with history and culture that goes back thousands of years. The scar trees stand as living monuments to the resilience and ingenuity of the Bangarang people, and their art continues to be a vibrant expression of their connection to country.

Tips:

  1. Respect the Land: The scar trees are a living part of our history. Take the time to appreciate them without leaving your own marks—unless you want a stern talking-to from yours truly!

  2. Learn from the Elders: The Bangarang people have stories to tell through their art and their land. If you’re lucky enough to be guided by one of their Elders, listen closely and soak it all in.

  3. Watch Your Step: Seriously, the bush has a way of reminding you who’s boss—usually by sending a root or a rock your way when you least expect it.

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Catch you on the next adventure, where I’ll try not to embarrass myself in front of another sacred site. But no promises!

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