Wanjibung Edwards, Kaláw / Firestick II

Wanjibung Edwards, (Kaláw / Firestick II)

• Thálbvthalp, gidee-gidee, Cooktown orchid, raffia, from cabbage palm frond, thalt palm leaf, rralmp, Native black ngolthór, bamboo Ma-rrambéliny, sugarbag
• Height: 128cm Head:13 x 7cm

The firestick, known as the Kalaw, is a sacred cultural object created by the men of the Kokoberrin clan. Traditionally crafted from native hibiscus wood, when prepared with skill and respect, it served as a reliable fire starter for many years. However, its significance extends far beyond its practical use. The Kalaw embodies the strength, knowledge, and continuity of cultural traditions, representing the deep spiritual connection between the people and their ancestral lands. It is not to be misrepresented, misused, or treated carelessly, as doing so would dishonour the generations of knowledge that have preserved its integrity.
The Kalaw was, and in some cases still is, held in the highest regard and carried in combination with other sacred cultural weapons, such as the kalk (spear), the lancewood spear, and the ironwood woomera. Each of these objects is not merely a tool but a vessel of wisdom, requiring deep understanding and adherence to cultural law. The Kalaw, in particular, carries strict obligations. One of the most essential laws dictates that the Kalaw must never be pointed at anyone, especially a female. This law is not simply a rule but a deeply rooted spiritual obligation, ensuring respect and balance are maintained within the community. Violating this protocol is considered a severe breach of cultural responsibility.
The making and use of the Kalaw are reserved for those who carry the cultural knowledge required to uphold its sacred meaning. This knowledge is not given lightly but is passed down through generations to those who have demonstrated the discipline, respect, and willingness to accept the responsibility of carrying and using such an object. It is not enough to merely understand how to create a Kalaw; one must also possess the wisdom to uphold the sacred trust placed upon its keeper. The Kalaw is made from carefully selected native resources that contribute to its strength and stability, reflecting the knowledge of the environment and the connection between people and Country.
During the 1990s, Senior Men in Kowanyama reached an agreement to supply the Djabukai Dance Theatre in Kuranda with Kalaw to be used in their tourist performances. This was not merely an act of trade but a conscious decision to share cultural knowledge while strictly enforcing the protocols that govern the use of the Kalaw. This modern exchange reflected the commitment to preserving and educating others about cultural traditions while ensuring that the integrity of the object remained intact. It was a way to share culture without compromising the strict obligations tied to the Kalaw.
The making of the Kalaw continues to this day. Kokoberrin men remain the primary keepers of this tradition, ensuring that its knowledge is not lost but instead shared responsibly. In recent years, Kokoberrin Elders have extended their teaching to Aboriginal rangers from across Queensland, passing on both the skill of crafting the Kalaw and the deep obligations tied to its use. This teaching is not just about the physical act of making the Kalaw but about instilling the understanding that it can never be bastardised or misused. Those who learn to create it are also charged with the duty of protecting its sanctity.
The Kalaw is more than a Firestarter; it is a symbol of knowledge, cultural identity, and continuity. It remains a highly regarded and deeply respected cultural object belonging to the Kokoberrin, Kokoberra, Kunjen, and Thaayore peoples. It is handed down through generations as a tangible link to ancestors, reinforcing the values, traditions, and laws that have guided these communities for millennia. To hold a Kalaw is to carry the weight of history, the strength of tradition, and the sacred responsibility of honouring and preserving culture.