Aboriginal art Aussie blog

Information about Emu Callers

Uses :

Emu callers are short didgeridoos which are about one foot (or 30 cm) long. The emu callers were traditionally used when hunting emus, the ostrich-like, giant flightless australian birds.

This hunting tool mimics the call of the emu as a decoy to attract the bird out of the bush, making it easy prey. It was also used as a musical instrument during ceremonies with its sound emulating an emu’s call. An emu-caller may also function as an unusual vase for dried flowers, or an interesting conversation piece for the office! They are traditionally and very tastefully decorated with Aboriginal art by Australian Aboriginal artists. The timber used in our emu callers is Australian hardwood mainly from Northern New South Wales and South-East Queensland.



How to Play :

If you hit the hole at the top of the tube with your open palm, it makes a noise. It sounds just like an Emu: “whoop whoooop whoop whooooop.” When hitting the hole at the end of the tube with your open palm, pull your hand away very quickly for the clearest emu-like sound.

Browse (in a new browser window) the two types of Emu Callers (with display stands) which we offer in our US$ online shop - featuring either Modern Aboriginal Art or Aboriginal Dot Art.

Browse (in a new browser window) the two types of Emu Callers (with display stands) which we offer in our Au$ online shop - featuring either Modern Aboriginal Art or Aboriginal Dot Art.

The bullroarer is Australia’s bush telephone. It was used by Aboriginal people to send messages over large areas, to neighbouring tribes. When spun, it makes a distinct whirring noise which can be heard over long distances.

Usage Instructions :

Hold the bullroared by the end of its string with the wooden disk hanging down. Spin the disk for 5 seconds while hanging, then begin to swing it fast in a circular motion to your side.