Stones, stories and ceremonies: A Gamilaraay, Arrernte, Luritja, Pitjantatjarra, Yankuntjatjarra perspective

Abstract

Cylcons are common in Australia, reported in early accounts (e.g., by Etheridge, McCarthy) as spiritually important for Aboriginal people, but where are the Indigenous perspectives on these important stones? Here we provide two stories about our engagement with these objects and then look at an archaeological excavation that allowed culture and science to come together helping us to interpret these stones.