Aboriginal weapons:

Hunting Spears:

Hunting spears used by the Aboriginal people are usually made from Tecoma vine. These vines are not straight but in fact curly.To straighten them the maker dries out the moisture by heating the branch over a small fire while it is still green. On completion the spear is usually around 270 centimetres (9 feet) long.

Spearthrower/Woomera:

The spearthrower is usually made from mulga wood and has a multi- function purpose. It is however primarily designed to launch a spear.The spear can then be launched with substantial power at an enemy or prey.Inserted into the Spinifex resin of the handle of many spearthrowers is very sharp piece of quartz rock. This is used for cutting, shaping or sharpening.The spearthrower was also used as a fire making saw, as a receptacle of mixing ochre, in ceremonies and to deflect spears in battle. 

Shield:

Shields are usually made from the bloodwood of Mulga trees. Aboriginal men using very basic tools make these. They are designed to be mainly used in battle but are also used in ceremonies. Many shields have traditional designs or fluting on them whilst others are just smooth. In Aboriginal art the Shield is depicted as an oval shape with two small oval circles for hand holds.

Boomerang:

Boomerangs are also a very multi functional instrument of the Aboriginal people. Their uses include warfare, hunting prey, rituals and ceremonies, musical instruments, digging sticks and also as a hammer. Boomerangs made in the desert are non-returning and when thrown correctly can reach distances of 160 metres (175 yards). This is nearly three times the distance a fighting club could be thrown. They are usually made from mulga wood and can be smoothed or incised with various designs purporting to that maker or family group. CLICK HERE

Clubs:

Clubs are usually always made from mulga wood and can vary in shapes and sizes. Many are fire hardened and some have razor sharp quartz set into the handle with Spinifex resin. They are used in ceremonies, in battle, for digging, for grooving tools, for decorating weapons and for many other purposes.