The Possum Skin Cloak by the Lake Travelling Suitcases were designed for use by schools and community groups. The tradition of using possum skins for the making of cloaks, waistbands, belts, armbands and headbands was practised by Aboriginal people across eastern Australia. Historical accounts of the customary methods of trapping, preparation, decoration and use of possum skin cloaks within Aboriginal nations in Queensland and throughout New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania are numerous and extensively documented. Nations in NSW include those of the Dharug, Kamilaroi, Gumbangarri, Wiradjuri, Worimi, Wonnaruah, Darkinjung, Awabakal and Narrinyeri people.
They both comprise the following:
- Two pelts clearly demonstrating the process of designing, burning, painting and sewing the cloak
- Examples of a finished armband
- Examples of ochre in its natural form and then mixed as a paintable liquid, and native tree resin in its natural state
- An introduction and history of possum skin cloaks
- Class activities for different curriculum areas and stages along with worksheets and a related board game
- A DVD made in collaboration with ABC Open by the community
- A copy of this Education Kit
- A copy of ‘Wrapped in a Possum Skin Cloak’ The Tooloyn Koortakay Collection in the National Museum of Australia, Amanda Reynolds, National Museum of Australia Press, 2005
The Travelling Suitcases are ideal for use in storytelling and information sessions for students. The suitcases can be loaned to schools at no cost. If you would like an Aboriginal educator to visit with the cloak please contact us for availability (fees apply).
Request the Possum Skin Cloak by the Lake Travelling Suitcase via the booking form below.