Yulunga: thepan
TLF ID M006639
Large, heavy wooden swords were used by males in the rainforest areas of north Queensland, around Tully and neighbouring areas. These swords would be straight or slightly curved in shape. Swordplay was a popular ceremonial and recreational activity, and two contestants with a wooden sword and shield would compete. Each would give and take blow after blow in strict rules of battle. After attempting to hit his opponent, the contestant would await his opponent’s stroke, fending it off with his shield. Finally, one would surrender. Sometimes one competitor would be slow with his shield and would receive a heavy blow on the head. Players use foam ‘swords’ to attempt to hit each other on the body. The Yulunga: Traditional Indigenous Games resource was developed to provide all Australians with a greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous culture by celebrating the games that Indigenous Australians have been playing across the country for hundreds of years.