Traditional Tools & Artefacts of the Goldfields

This collection of Aboriginal artifacts from the Goldfields region reflects the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the First Nations peoples who lived on these lands long before European settlement. Each object tells a story of hunting, survival, and cultural traditions, showcasing how local materials were crafted into essential tools.

Shields

Shields were used for protection in combat and ceremonial purposes. These examples, donated between the 1940s and 1970s, come from across the Goldfields, including Kalgoorlie, Leonora, Kookynie, and surrounding areas.
• Kalgoorlie/Leonora – Donated by M. Innes, 1970s (A23673)
• Kalgoorlie area – Donated by Mrs. Temple, before 1964 (A15613)
• Kookynie – Donated by Dr. W.H. Nelson, before 1945 (E11359)

Whale Bone Disc

A mysterious whale bone disc was found on a reserve near Kalgoorlie in the late 1890s—an incredible discovery considering it was located 400km from the coast. Its purpose remains unknown, but its presence highlights the long-distance movement of objects and trade between Aboriginal groups.
• Donated by G. Jessup (A14423)

Wooden Dishes

Wooden dishes were an essential tool for carrying food, water, and other items. These examples were collected from Laverton and Kookynie, with some dating back to 1911.
• Laverton area – Collected by Mr. Stan Pierce, 1960s; donated by J. van Asselt (A26520 & A26521)
• Kookynie – Purchased from Mr. John Dodd, 1911 (E5084)

Fire Saw

Fire saws were an ingenious way to start a fire using only wood. By rubbing a length of wood vigorously across grooved timber, small embers would form and ignite dry tinder. This method was a vital survival skill for Aboriginal people living in the harsh Goldfields environment.

Boomerangs

Boomerangs were used for hunting, combat, and ceremonial purposes. The collection includes pieces from Leonora, Kalgoorlie, and Kookynie, some dating back to 1911.
• Weebo Station, near Leonora – Donated by Mr. Carty, before 1959 (A12914)
• Kalgoorlie area – Donated by Mrs. Temple, before 1964 (A15608)
• Kookynie district – Purchased from Mr. John Dodd, 1911 (E4690)

Spearthrowers

Spearthrowers (also known as woomeras) were used to increase the speed and distance of a spear throw, making them a critical tool for hunting.
• Beria – Donated by Mr. Mackie, before 1921 (E8240)
• Kalgoorlie – Collected by Tom Marsden 1913-1920, donated by Misses P. & L. Thompson, 1988 (A23852)
• Laverton – Donated by A.R. Wood, before 1917 (E6920)

Clubs

Clubs were versatile tools used for hunting and combat. They could be hand-held or thrown to kill small animals, reptiles, and birds.
• Leonora-Laverton – Collected between 1926-1940; donated by Dr. & Mrs. Rowe (A24502)
• Kanowna – Donated by Mr. Cooke, before 1901 (E19)
• Kalgoorlie – Donated by R. Fagan, before 1934 (E10054)

Each of these artefacts represents thousands of years of cultural heritage and highlights the adaptability and ingenuity of Aboriginal people in the Goldfields region.