The Aboriginal Australian’s Deep Connection to the Great Barrier Reef

Posted By Samuel Phineas Upham

There were two groups who originally inhabited the area near the Great barrier Reef. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders have had an existing relationship with the region for over 60,000 years. The Aboriginals of Australia are speculated to be part of one of the world’s oldest civilizations.

These groups were traditionally hunter-gatherer societies, so their livelihood relied extensively on the availability of plant and animal wild life. The Torres Strait Islanders were a bit more seafaring, so their life involved much more fishing and trading for food and supplies. Some of this tradition continues today, as Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders still draw upon the Great Barrier Reef for food.

These early peoples used to kayak between the islands, carefully avoiding the coral formations as they travelled between settlements.      Aside from its connection to the aboriginals of Australia, The Great Barrier Reef also contains thirty ship wrecks speculated to be of historical significance. The site is also home to many derelict World War II lighthouses and outposts.

The government of Australia has a vested interest in maintaining the region. After all, the Reef brings in billions in tourist money each year, so much has been spent on finding ways to sustainably explore and use the Great Barrier Reef. This includes a Reef Rescue operation for wildlife and plants, and efforts to stop drilling and other invasive practices.

About the Author: Samuel Phineas Upham is an investor at a family office/ hedgefund, where he focuses on special situation illiquid investing. Before this position, Phin Upham was working at Morgan Stanley in the Media and Telecom group. You may contact Phin on his Samuel Phineas Upham website or LinkedIn.