The Noongar Before European Settlement

Prior to European colonization, the Noongar people flourished across the lands, with their numbers ranging from 6,000 to tens of thousands. The dawn of British colonization introduced violence and diseases that significantly impacted the Noongar population. The Noongar initially perceived Europeans as ancestral spirits, welcoming them with open arms in hopes of peaceful coexistence.

The Land and Its First Peoples

The lands, once roamed by the Pindjarup tribe, span across 1,800 square miles, touching upon areas known today as Pinjarra, Harvey, and the fertile soils of the Darling Scarp. The community's geography, marked by coastal estuaries and wetlands, provided a bountiful environment for the Pindjarup / Bindjareb people, shaping their lifestyle and seasonal activities.

Early Encounters and Growing Tensions

In the beginning, relationships between the Noongar and European settlers were marked by cordiality, a testament to Noongar diplomacy. The Noongar integrated the newcomers into their rituals, celebrating their arrival. However, as settlement expanded, mutual misunderstandings over land and resources led to conflicts. Misinterpretations of Noongar land management, such as controlled burns, and the settlers’ view of livestock led to increased tensions, particularly around the Murray River, delaying expansion into Mandurah.

A Culture Rooted in Nature

The Pindjarup were adept at living in harmony with their surroundings. Their intricate fish-traps and knowledge of the six-season cycle allowed them to thrive, utilizing every aspect of the land from the estuaries to the interior lakes, making full use of environmental resources. Their range extended from coastal estuaries and sand dunes to interior lakes, wetlands, and the fertile soils of the Darling Scarp foothills and ridgelines. Their diet included Western long-necked tortoises, black swans, ducks, and migratory birds. This deep connection with nature is a testament to their resourcefulness and respect for the environment, principles that continue to inspire the Dawesville community today.

Historical Challenges and Resilience

From the arrival of European settlers in 1829, the Pindjarup people faced significant challenges, including the tragic events of the Pinjarra massacre led by the Pindjarup leader Calyute. Despite these hardships and the impacts of colonization, the Pindjarup community has demonstrated remarkable resilience, maintaining their presence and growing in number since the 1930s. However, the scars of assimilation policies and the forced removal of Aboriginal people to institutions like the Roelands Aboriginal Mission are reminders of the struggles faced by the Pindjarup and other Indigenous peoples.

Resistance and Reprisal

By June 1832, the situation escalated when Yagan, a respected Whadjuk leader, along with his family, was declared an outlaw for retaliating against the settlers' encroachments. Despite capture and escape, Yagan's pursuit ended tragically, highlighting the depth of resistance among Noongar people against colonial pressures. Conflicts persisted, notably the Pinjarra massacre, evidencing the severe impact of colonization on the Noongar community.

Acts of Goodwill Amidst Hardship

Despite the backdrop of conflict, remarkable instances of goodwill emerged, such as in 1834, when a Noongar couple, Migo and Molly Dobbin, heroically saved a European child who had gone missing. This act of kindness represented a glimmer of hope and humanity amidst the struggles, illustrating the complex relationship between the Noongar people and European settlers.

European Settlement and Conflicts:

• European exploration of Pindjarup lands began in 1829 when Lieutenant P. N. Preston and Dr. Alexander Collie explored the region.
• In 1830, the Pindjarup killed George MacKenzie, a 19-year-old member of an exploration party.
• Two years later, a punitive expedition led by Frederick Irwin resulted in the deaths of five Pindjarup and injuries to several others.
• Thomas Peel, a relative of the future British Prime Minister Sir Robert Peel, was granted land covering part of Pindjarup territory.
• The Pindjarup were also in dispute with the Whadjuk people of the Swan River. Intertribal conflicts arose, and the colonial authorities became involved in taking sides.
• Clashes with settlers occurred after Pindjarup clan dingoes attacked livestock near Perth.
• Pindjarup leader Calyute distinguished himself during a standoff with settlers.

Preserving Cultural Identity

Today, the legacy of the Pindjarup / Bindjareb people is integral to understanding the identity of Dawesville. It is a call to action for the community to honour, preserve, and celebrate the rich Indigenous history that has shaped the land. By fostering a deeper connection with this heritage, Dawesville can ensure that the spirit and culture of the Pindjarup people are remembered and respected for generations to come.