![]() This is when we pass an electrical current through the ground to measure the nature of the sediments and rocks beneath the surface. Our work used a technique called electrical resistivity tomography. Previous work in Arnhem Land using drilling has provided some information about the history of the landscape, but our research achieves much greater detail. ![]() But afterwards, diets changed to take advantage of the ample supply of shellfish.īuried tools and pigments tell a new history of humans in Australia for 65,000 years The excavations show people in the area ate land animals and freshwater fish before the valley flooded. These major changes in the local environments are also visible through materials excavated from Madjedbebe and other sites in the area. ![]() This landscape has been transformed by a sea-level rise of more than 120 metres, which brought the coastline from more than 200 kilometres away to lap directly on the cliffs in the Red Lily Lagoon area in Western Arnhem Land.Ī digital reconstruction shows a view of the Red Lily Lagoon area today (top) and the same view around 7,000 years ago (bottom), when the ocean lapped against the rocky escarpment. We have mapped the cliffs and rivers, more than 15 metres below the current surface, which would have greeted the first people to arrive here. Our research, recently published in PLOS One, shows these floodplains hide a complex landscape buried deep underground critical to understanding the deep history of the region. Most people, however, ignore the expansive floodplains surrounding these sites, especially when they are covered by water during the wet season. Some may know this landscape includes the earliest evidence of human occupation in what is now Australia, at Madjedbebe, where signs of habitation have been dated to 65,000 years ago. Many visitors to Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory are struck by the magnificent cliffs, stunning bird life and extraordinary rock art. Partnersįlinders University provides funding as a member of The Conversation AU. Ian Moffat receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory and Flinders University.Īlfred Nayinggul does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. Jarrad Kowlessar receives funding from Flinders University.ĭaryl Wesley receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, National Geographic Research Scheme and Flinders University. Senior research fellow, Flinders UniversityĪssociate Professor of Archaeological Science, Flinders University Senior Erre Traditional Owner, Indigenous Knowledge
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