This barramundi fish trap by Anchor Galunba is known as a mandjabu and comes from Western Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory. It is woven from milil vine with manben (wood) pieces used to provide the conical shape.

 

Fish traps such as this are used in tidal pools of creeks to harvest fish, especially barramundi. A fence of wooden stakes is strung across a narrow part of a creek with an opening left for the fish to pass through. As the tide turns and the fish swim back, the traps are set. The fish enters the wide mouth of the trap and are caught in the tied end.

 

This fish trap shows the unique adaptation of local land resources for a marine requirement. Anchor Galunba was for many years the senior custodian of Mumeka outstation and of the fish trapping activities on Bulkay Creek.