Coolamon is an anglicised version of theWiradjuric wordguliman^[1] used to describe anAustralian Aboriginal carryingvessel.

It is a multi-purpose shallow vessel, ordish with curved sides, ranging in length from 30 to 70 cm, and similar in shape to a canoe.

Coolamons were traditionally used by Aboriginal women to carry water, fruit, nuts, as well as to cradle babies. Today when women gatherbush tucker, they usually use abilly can, bucket or flour tin. Coolamons were carried on the head when travelling any distance, or under the arm if used as a cradle. If carried on the head, a ring pad (akartne inArrernte) was placed on the head, made out of possum and/orhuman hair string, twisted grass, or feathers.[1]

This helped to cushion and support the carriage of the coolamon; the same purpose as those used by women in traditional cultures around the world to carry vessels on their heads. ThePintupi of theWestern Desert would attach a double strand of plaited rope (ngalyibi) made of hair or plant fibre to sling the coolamon over their shoulders.^[2] They also wore smaller coolamons as hats, with the twine around the chin.^[3]

Coolamons were used forwinnowing grains in thetraditional bread-making process, as well as a general heating and cooking vessel. They could even be used as anumbrella.

Coolamons are generally made by the men. They are usually made from ahardwood such asmallee. In Central Australia, thebean tree was often used. A piece of the outer bark of the tree is removed, then moulded over the fire to give it its distinctive curved sides. Deep ridges were made using a quartz stone knife. It needed to stand for a number of days, with a stick of wood holding it open to prevent it losing its shape. It may also be made of a knot or excrescence (“wirree”), from a tree.

Coolamons were often ornately decorated on their exterior with various etchings – depicting tribal insignia and totemic designs. They were also used inceremonies, such as for aromaticsmoking, which was believed to have purifying effects. They were rubbed regularly with fat, such asemu fat to keep the wood in good condition.

Many other names are used in other parts of Aboriginal Australia, byMurri,Queensland Aboriginals, and people in the Northern Territory, Victoria, Western Australia as well as by theDharug, orEora people from theSydney area. Some other names, and their respective languages, include:

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