Mungo Mysteries
The discovery of the remains of Mungo Man and Mungo Woman, the many other treasures released by the Mungo sand, and most recently of the 20,000 years old footsteps have put Lake Mungo firmly on the map as one of the most important places in the world for an understanding of the origins of human civilisation. Yet plenty of mystery and controversy remains as scientists remain unsure what to make of the findings.
The bottom line is the evidence of more than 40,000 years of human settlement in the area, which is a very long time indeed before James Cook ever set foot in Sydney Cove. The local Paakintji, Ngiyampaa and Mutthi Mutthi people were unhappy to see their ancestors' resting places disturbed and their bones removed and relations between the archaeologists and the local people remained difficult for a long time - to the point where the tribal elders banned any further excavations. In recent years, however, beginning with the return and ceremonial reburial of Mungo Woman by local elders in 1992, and more recently with an agreement to cooperate in the study of newly discovered burial sites and now the footsteps, it seems like a way has been found to continue research at this important site while respecting Indigenous culture and traditions.
Science has every reason to be respectful of these ancient traditions because its own theories about the origins of human civilisation remain highly speculative and controversial. The links below (just click on the highlighted words) provide some pointers to the debates for those interested in exploring further the mysteries of Lake Mungo.
An easy introduction to Lake Mungo and its importance is provided by ABC Radio's "A Walk in the Park" program. An overview of the state of academic research into the origins of the human population of Australia is given in Aboriginal settlement of Australia, and a slightly different version here. Both of these are rather difficult to read with their academic jargon and a more easily digestible summary, drawing on media reports, can be read here and a more controversial one here. The Internet encyclopedia Wikipedia also has a useful introduction.
Jim Bowler, who discovered Mungo Woman and Mungo Man, reflects on the significance of these finds for a true Australian identity in Reading the Australian Landscape: European and Aboriginal perspectives. Bowler has produced a very informative and educational CD about the archaeology of Lake Mungo which can be obtained here. Another informative source is A history of Aboriginal occupation in Wentworth shire.
A collection of media reports of the Mungo footprints, complete with photos, can be found here.