‘We learn off one another and we follow through’: weaving fishing nets with the Aunties

The project “Stories Behind the Fishing Net: Sitting with the Aunties” aimed to revive traditional net-making on Widjabal Wia-bal Country in northern New South Wales.
The initiative was rooted in Indigenous knowledge systems and sought to strengthen cultural continuity, reconnect generations, and foster learning from Elders through practical weaving and storytelling.
Nearly two decades ago, Yolŋu Elder and master weaver Merrkiyawuy “Merrki” Ganambarr-Stubbs began sharing weaving knowledge, which was later adopted and expanded by Bundjalung community members.
The project included traditional practices guided by Elders and involved both women and men in culturally specific roles, emphasising the importance of respect and collective responsibility in gathering natural fibres.
While digitising aspects to preserve Indigenous heritage, the project recognised that only hands-on practice fully conveys the depth of cultural knowledge, including the care and protocols surrounding it.
The initiative contributed to culturally safe spaces, strengthened community relationships, and aimed to continue exploring and comparing the properties of different native fibres.

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