The University of Canberra (UC) has opened a new education space featuring plants used by the traditional owners of the land on which the university is based, the Ngunnawal people.
The Ngunnawal Plant Use Education Space is adjacent to the UC Library and home to varieties native to the ACT region which the Ngunnawal people have used — and continue to use — for a number of purposes, from food to tools, weapons and medicine, to fibre and dye.
Dean of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Leadership and Strategy at UC, Peter Radoll said that among the plants was Kangaroo Grass, which could be used for weaving baskets and fishing nets; Kurrajong, which had edible seeds, sap and shoots, and Narrow Leaf Hop Bush whose leaves can be used to relieve toothache.
“The space features signs with both the Ngunnawal and the Latin botanical names for each plant, plus a description of its uses,” Professor Radoll said.
“They were planted according to the Ngunnawal Plant Use field guide, published by the ACT Government.
“The Ngunnawal Plant Use Education Space recognises the cultural history of this land and values the ongoing rich cultural legacy of the Ngunnawal people.”
He said learning about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures on campus, and within the curriculum, allowed students to develop respect for diversity.
