New research has found that Australia’s national flower has a cultural history that spans across 50,000-years.
Findings from the oldest archaeological site on Martu Country in the Western Desert detail how wattle, and other Acacias, were used as food, medicine and tools by Aboriginal people for over 50,000-years.
The first-of-its-kind study within the region was led by archaeobotany expert and PhD candidate Chae Byrne from the University of Western Australia alongside Martu Traditional Owners.
It examined charcoal from ancient campfires in rock shelters in Karnatukul (Serpents Glen) in Katjarra (the Carnarvon Ranges).
“Wattle was critical to the lives of the Martu and essential to the habitability of the arid landscape of the sandplains and rocky ridges of the Western Desert – and it still is,” said Ms Byrne.
The iconic yellow-flower has been used across across the nation for over 50,000-years. Source: Flickr/ Ian Sutton (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)
“Then and now, wattle has been used as firewood, to make tools, as food and as medicine.”
Using archaeobotany, researchers were able to examine the remains of wattle in charcoal pieces – estimating what time of year wattle was used, what it was used for and how it was stored.
“Wattle was used continuously in this area throughout 50,000 years. This place was so significant because wattle seed can be picked and stored for a long time,” said Ms Byrne.
“During periods where it was arid, this was a place people could come and know there would be wattle, there would be access to food and things they needed.”
The research weaves together cultural knowledge of Martu Traditional Owners and science provided by researchers on-site.
Ms Byrne said working on Country with Martu People was something that drew her to this type of research.
“There’s still such a strong culture that’s living still and is so connected to land and landscape,” she said.
“Hearing the importance of acacia and wattle, and all the different uses for all the different species – whether leaves were used for soap or seeds in food.”
Ms Byrne described the wattle as an “ancient grocer and pharmacy which has provided and prospered for tens of thousands of years.”
Excavations at archaeological site on Martu Country. Source: Chae Byrne, The University of Western Australia
“It was amazing to work with Martu People, to get their views and bring it together with the science. It’s that human component that makes this worthwhile and gives this significance.”
Whilst wattle is often used in displays of patriotism, Ms Byrne said the research can contribute to a deeper understanding of the plant's true history.
“We think of the Olympic uniforms or the Coat of Arms, with the wattle and it brings us a sense of pride. To have this research affirm that it is 50,000-years old, it’s so much more than a national emblem,” she said.
