Artwork: Pial pial (Freshwater sawfish)
Size: 81cm x 81cm
Medium: Acrylic on canvas
Artist: Lauren Greatorex

The Freshwater sawfish, known as 'pial pial' to my mob, the Nyikina people, holds significant cultural importance within the Aboriginal community near the Mardoowarra (Fitzroy River). These creatures are not only a dietary staple but also deeply embedded in the stories, beliefs, and practices of the Nyikina people. The Nyikina people have relied on sawfish for sustenance and have developed traditional methods for catching them, reflecting a close and sustainable relationship with their environment.

The use of bark from a freshwater mangrove tree to catch the sawfish demonstrates the intricate understanding of surroundings. This traditional practice involves placing the bark in a waterhole, which reduces oxygen levels in the water. As a result, the sawfish float to the surface, making them easier to catch. This technique showcases the Nyikina people's deep knowledge of the behaviour of the sawfish and their ability to harmoniously interact with their ecosystem.