Water basket, 2009
Hobart
bull kelp (Durvillaea potatorum), river reed (Schoenoplectus pungens),
tea tree (Melaleuca sp.)
55x90x60 mm

‘I was excited about making a basket for the first time! It made me happy because I learnt how to make a traditional basket to pass on down to my family.’

Nayda Smith, aged seven, is the great grand-daughter of Aunty Ila (Girlie) Purdon. For one so young, Nayda has been taught much about her cultural heritage from her parents.

Her father Joe Smith has instilled the importance of knowing Aboriginal culture. Nayda can quite confidently identify many native species of both flora and fauna along with a vast knowledge of traditional tucker.

Her mother Tanya Langdon is very talented with her hands. Tanya is a natural at weaving and the making of baskets and spends quality time teaching Nayda about this aspect of her culture.

Nayda is proud of her heritage and is happy to talk to anyone willing to listen. She attends primary school in Hobart and is in Grade 2.

Carry basket 1, 2009
Hobart
bull kelp (Durvillaea potatorum), river reed (Schoenoplectus pungens),
tea tree (Melaleuca sp.)