Leo, Daniel (School of Social Science, University of Queensland)

Unearthing Antiquarians: Reassessing Archaeological Practice in Rural Australia

The objective of this poster is to illustrate why archaeologists should reassess their theories and methods when working in rural Australia. A process of realisation, reflection and engagement is proposed to achieve this objective. Initially, there is a need to realise that within the pastoral landscape (the sheep/cattle properties and associated townships) that dominate rural Australia there are antiquarians whose knowledge, collections and guardianship of Aboriginal objects and sites is considerable and important. After acknowledging this, there is a need to reflect on the culture and history of such antiquarians. Lastly, the process of realisation and reflection is the basis for archaeologists to engage with antiquarians in meaningful dialogue and co-operation.

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