Introduction

This chapter presents recent findings from archaeological research in the Bass Strait region, interpreted from both an archaeological and an indigenous perspective. The research investigates questions concerning the use of water craft and the exploitation of island food resources by Tasmanian Aboriginal people in prehistoric times. Sim originally undertook the project for her Ph.D. research. West, a Tasmanian Aborigine working as the Aboriginal Consultant on Sim’s fieldwork, chose to become involved with the research as it was clear that useful information for the Tasmanian Aboriginal community could be obtained from remains excavated by Sim.