Aboriginal Cultural Center

We went on a group field trip to the Musgrave Cultural Center to learn about Aborigines, their cultural practices, history, and current plight. It was a great experience. Their culture is one that doesn't run on linear time, which means that sticking to a rigid schedule isn't given much thought, making our afternoon a relaxing one. They performed indigenous dance and even taught us a few moves. They fed us their traditional breakfast breads with "bush relish" and golden syrup, which is a key ingredient in a bunch of Aussie foods- like molasses and honey mixed, very sweet. We made our own boomerangs and learned how to throw them. To end the afternoon, they were hospitable enough to grill kangaroo meat for a barbecue. 'Roo meat is similar to beef but more lean and tender. Really good!

Not only was it fun but a great education as well. The Aborigines' current situation is almost identical to that of the Native Americans in the states. Land is being fought for, unemployment is high and alcohol and drug use runs rampant. But they hold onto their culture and emphasize that it is alive and well amidst their struggle. I have to agree.