Design and Technologies: Investigate the ways in which products, services, and environments evolve locally, regionally, and globally through the creativity, innovation, and enterprise of individuals and groups (ACTDEK029). Analyse how social, ethical, and sustainability considerations influence design and technologies decisions to meet present and future needs (ACTDEK032).
Aboriginal Cultural Standards Framework (DETWA): Cultural Responsiveness Standard - Staff embed Aboriginal cultural knowledge, such as the use of native timbers like jarrah and mulga for tools and structures, to demonstrate respect for community values and sustainable practices.
Cross-Curriculum Priority: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures - Students explore traditional timber use practices to understand sustainable and culturally appropriate design solutions.
Indigenous Australian communities have used native timbers for thousands of years, demonstrating deep knowledge of their properties and sustainable practices. Timber use is guided by stewardship, the responsible management of resources to ensure long-term availability. Jarrah, a hardwood from Western Australia, is prized for its durability and strength. It is used for tools like woomeras, traditional spear-throwers, and communal structures such as shelters. Mulga, a resilient wood from arid regions, is crafted into digging sticks and boomerangs, valued for its density and cultural significance. Conkerberry, a fine-grained timber, is used for small handcrafted items like trinket boxes, showcasing its unique orange and cream hues. These timbers are selected through traditional knowledge, ensuring sustainability.[](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2UHxTtLQN4)
Other timbers include sandalwood, used for ceremonial objects due to its aromatic qualities, and gidgee, a hard wood for weapons like spears. Red gum is shaped into coolamons, wooden vessels for carrying food or babies. These designs reflect Indigenous heritage and are created through collaborative processes. Aboriginal communities use selective harvesting, carefully choosing trees to maintain forest health. This method protects biodiversity, the variety of life in an ecosystem. Tools are crafted using traditional techniques, like carving with stone tools, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Design processes involve community consultation, where elders guide decisions to align with cultural values. These practices ensure resources remain available for future generations.
Modern designers draw inspiration from Indigenous methods, adopting sustainable harvesting and ethical sourcing. Ethical sourcing involves obtaining materials responsibly to minimise harm. For example, jarrah is used in furniture like tables, reflecting its strength and aesthetic appeal. Mulga is used in artistic carvings, showcasing its density. Design processes include planning, prototyping, and evaluation, ensuring functionality and sustainability. Prototyping involves creating initial models to test designs. Indigenous knowledge ensures timbers are used respectfully, supporting community identity and environmental care. These practices create preferred futures by balancing utility with cultural significance.[](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUcK0GT8O6s)[](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=by-6RgteQxs)
Here are 20 words from the reading for spelling practice: