Aboriginal Journey Ways

Aboriginal Journey Ways – How Ancient Trails Shaped Our Roads
By Noel Nannup & Francesca Robertson

An insightful exploration of ancient Aboriginal songlines, trade routes, ceremonial paths, and migration trails across Western Australia, revealing how many modern roads continue to follow traditional Aboriginal journey ways.

Description

Aboriginal Journey Ways – How Ancient Trails Shaped Our Roads examines the deep cultural and historical significance of Aboriginal pathways throughout Western Australia and the enduring influence these ancient routes have had on contemporary transport networks.

Developed through a collaboration between Edith Cowan University and Main Roads Western Australia, the book shares stories, maps, cultural knowledge, and historical insights that demonstrate how Aboriginal people navigated and connected Country for thousands of years before European settlement.

Through the voices and cultural knowledge of respected Noongar Elder Noel Nannup and co-author Francesca Robertson, the publication offers readers a meaningful perspective on movement through landscape, connection to Country, and the sophisticated systems of knowledge embedded within Aboriginal journey ways.

Richly illustrated and thoughtfully presented, the book encourages a deeper appreciation of the living cultural heritage that continues to shape the roads and pathways we travel today.

Key Themes

• Aboriginal songlines and journey ways
• Cultural mapping and connection to Country
• Traditional trade and migration routes
• Western Australian history and landscape
• Indigenous knowledge and storytelling

Inside the Book

• Ancient Aboriginal pathways across WA
• Stories and cultural insights from Noel Nannup
• Historical and contemporary road connections
• Maps, photography, and visual references
• Reflections on Country, culture, and movement

Why You’ll Love It

• Deeply informative and culturally enriching
• Offers a unique perspective on Australian history
• Beautifully presented with stories and visual material
• Ideal for readers interested in Indigenous culture, history, and landscape

Book Details

• Format: Paperback
• Dimensions: 21 x 29.7 cm
• Publisher: Edith Cowan University & Main Roads Western Australia
• Language: English

A fascinating and respectful exploration of the ancient pathways that continue to shape how we move through the landscapes of Western Australia today.