On Saturday May 18 the South Sydney Herald held its annual fundraiser aboard the Tribal Warrior’s Mari Nawi (Big Canoe). The four-hour cruise, from Darling Harbour to Clark Island (Be-lang-le-woo) and back, commenced in high spirits. The 75 excited passengers represented all aspects of the SSH news service, from production to distribution and readership. Aboriginal cultural commentary – in story, song and dance – was provided by Terry Olsen, who led an informative and entertaining tour of Clark Island. The sunny weather and idyllic setting made for a glorious picnic lunch. A soulful set by Torres Strait Islander singer-songwriter Marcus Corowa put a perfect end to a majestic day.
Terry Olsen was a consummate guide. Participants learned how Indigenous people sustained nutrition and maintained hygiene. Terry made particular mention of the grass plant called Lomandra, mainly found along the east coast of Australia. He praised this “handy plant that Aboriginal people utilised”. The seeds would be crushed up, then mixed with water to make a dough. It was shaped then placed in the embers of a fire to make damper – a significant staple. He then explained how the leaves of the plant could be separated and the white bulb in the centre used for extracting water.
The Blackwood plant can be used for washing. It lathers up like soap. One of the dances performed by Terry celebrated the Willy Wagtail, a little black bird with a white chest and a fantail. For Aboriginal people, it is a special bird since it is a messenger. “The Willy Wagtail is never to be harmed,” Terry said.
Lesley, a loyal reader of the SSH, said that she had been to Clark Island a number of times for parties and events. “It’s a great place,” she said. “But for Terry to take us around the island and explain those really interesting and cultural things like the natural fishing trap and the plants, I think that was fantastic.”
Father and son, Paul, 40, and Glynn, 10, came to gather more information on Indigenous culture and to support the SSH. “Terry is a nice guy and full of information,” Paul said.
Vicki Gordon, one of the event organisers, made sure that everyone was well catered for. “You have got to make sure you have everything and everybody’s comfortable, because these days when you are feeding people you’ve got to make sure all the nutritional needs are covered,” she said.
Along with offering a healthy sausage sizzle and fresh fruit, with thanks to local businesses Hudson Meats and Tapeo Bakery, Vicki was instrumental in making sure the end of our day was flawless. “Marcus is an extraordinary musician,” she said. “I’m so glad he agreed to perform. Just seeing everybody enjoying themselves, that’s the thing really. It was a perfect day. We couldn’t have asked for more.”
