The yellow ochre finish is a distinct feature of this child's canoe.

Bathurst Island Indigenous Bark Canoe

Vessel numberHV000159

External identification numberA33078

Vessel type Indigenous Watercraft of Australia

DimensionsVessel Dimensions: 1.81 m x 0.34 m (5.94 ft x 1.12 ft)

Terms

Vessel Highlights

Indigenous Watercraft of Australia

DescriptionThe Indigenous canoe is formed from a single bark sheet, from an unidentified type of tree. The open ends are stitched together to close them off by forming a short double thickness flat panel. The sides are then opened out with short lengths of branch and bark lashings to form beams. These two beams, along with a third one placed towards the middle of the canoe, are lashed to two long branches that support the top edge on either side. These branches are parallel to each other and are also lashed or sewn to the bark. The branches form a framework that provides strength to the structure and maintains the craft's shape.

This vessel is on display in the Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery, South Australian Museum.

SignificanceThe BATHURST ISLAND BARK CANOE is an Indigenous craft used in island waters off the coast of the Northern Territory. The outside is coloured with yellow ochre which is an unusual feature for an Indigenous craft. At less than 2 metres length it was probably a child's canoe.