9 - Nanotechnology and the Dreamtime knowledge of spinifex grass

Abstract

This paper is premised on several Australian Aboriginal myths (or sacred histories) from the Georgina River Basin region of Central Australia that concern the Triodia grasses known locally as spinifex (or aywerte). These sacred histories provide an epistemological foundation to the regional intellectual property over traditional spinifex technologies formerly utilized for architectural, material and medicinal functions. Aboriginal uses of spinifex were once widespread but declined in the latter 20th century, and ethno-scientific knowledge has severely diminished. The dominant uses of spinifex in Aboriginal culture were as waterproof roof-thatching material and as a gum for adhesive functions. The chapter explores the contemporary revitalization of this knowledge in collaborative research partnership between a group of traditional tribal owners (the Indjalandji, Alyawarr, Wakaya, and Bularnu peoples) and a team of scientific researchers from the University of Queensland lead by the authors and including nano-biomaterial engineers. The partnership involves engaging with, and resolving an interface between, the respective epistemologies and work cultures of the university researchers and our Aboriginal partners.