Yulunga: borna jokee
TLF ID M006583
In parts of Western Australia mimic battles with toy spears frequently took place among the younger male members of the camp. Mock fights and duels were fought. There were also trials of skill with kyley and spear and kangaroo and emu hunts, the children taking turns at being hunter and hunted. In these activities the boys are encouraged by their elders in order to acquire dexterity in handling their weapons, and boys are usually watched closely by the men, especially in their spear-throwing games. The game of boorna jokee was the throwing of blunted spears at a human target. In this manner a player perfected skills in spear throwing and spear dodging. In displays of skill some men could expertly dodge three spears thrown together. They would use their shield or woomera to deflect the spears at the last moment. In this game players throw soft balls at a player, who attempts to avoid being contacted. The Yulunga: Traditional Indigenous Games resource was developed to provide all Australians with a greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous culture by celebrating the games that Indigenous Australians have been playing across the country for hundreds of years.