Cultural sites

Culturally significant sites on Pulu include the Kod, a revered ceremonial area, and Awgadhalkula, a totemic skull cave associated with Kuyam, a legendary Mabuyag warrior and culture hero.  Both these sites are central to Goelmulgaw clan identity and are revered across the western Torres Strait.  Many other cultural heritage sites including rock art sites, middens and burials areas on Pulu have been identified and much remains to be learned about Pulu’s cultural values.

Kod

The Kod Complex of Pulu is an important initiation area for all clan groups affiliated with the Koedal (Crocodile), Thababu (Snake), Dhangal (dugong), Saamu (cassowary) and Kayga (shovelnose ray) totems.  It was a place where key ceremonies were undertaken in relation to male initiation, mortuary rites, war, turtle and dugong magic.

The Pulu Kod site, has well-preserved shrines of Dugong bone mounds, Bu shell arrangements and rock art. 

Awgadhalkula 

Awgadhalkula is a site on Pulu that contained the skulls from headhunting raids and the sacred emblems of the legendary Mabuyag warrior culture-hero, Kuyam.  When visiting this site, respects must be paid and no weapons are allowed in this area. 

Mask Cave

The Mask Cave site was used between 1500 and 4000 years ago.  It contains the earliest evidence of human use of Pulu. 

Tigershark Rock Shelter

This rock shelter was originally a living place used by Goelmulgal.   It holds rock are and middens dating back 1400 years.