Culture

History of landuse and cultural linkages to our IPA 

Goelmulgal (Mabuyag people) have used the land and waters around Pulu IPA since time immemorial.   

The seas around Pulu IPA were traditionally used by Goelmulgal to fish and also to dive for Kabarr (Trochus shell) and Kaiyar (Tropical Rock Lobster, Panilurus ornatus).  This tradition continues to this day.   Today, Mabuyag locals make annual trips to the islet to harvest Ubar (fruit of the Wongai Tree, Manilkara kauki) for drying and preserving.  Visits from non-locals are rare, however, with increased visitation to the area from illegal fishers from Indonesia and illegal visitors from mainland Australia, inappropriate visitation to Pulu may increase which may jeopardise the spiritual significance of sites and damage natural and cultural values.  

Spiritual significance of Pulu for Goelmulgaw 

Goemulgal conservation philosophy is founded on mina pawa (appropriate and respectful ways), in particular, respect of traditional values and wisdom of Elders.  This respect extends to the responsibility of on-going active management of ancestral places to honour the ancestors and spirits of places.   Goelmulgal believe that such management will help ensure the collective wellbeing of future generations of Goemulgal.   As both islanders and a sea people, Goemulgal have always sought to build alliances based on mutual respect and trust.   In this sense, Goemulgal embrace the opportunity to work in partnership with various outside agencies through the Pulu IPA committee to maintain the cultural and natural values of the IPA.