Traditionally a female activity, basket-weaving has evolved from being a practical storage solution, a necessity for survival, to an act of personal expression and cultural pride.
At the Yorgar’s workshop, a women’s-only experience, guided by Nyungar Tours managing director Kerry-Ann Winmar and lead tour guide and weaver Andria Spencer, the threads of cultural preservation are woven into a new story that celebrates female empowerment. 
“This is a very ancient craft and this is a very old tradition where women of all ages were able to come together; yarn together and learn from each other,” explains Andria. “My Aunty taught me how to weave; I started learning when I was 12 years old and I have been practising ever since.” 
Since these community gatherings commonly took place outdoors, it was also an opportunity for women across generations to connect not only with each other but also to Country.
In the past, grasses used for weaving were harvested from their natural surroundings, as were the botanicals that were used to naturally dye them. Each basket, whether practical or ornamental, became a unique reflection of its location as well as its owner.
If you’d like to learn basic weaving techniques, connect with the wisdom of women in your community and take home a woven masterpiece of your own (it may be a dilly bag, coaster, or earrings, depending on your ability), book your Yorgar’s workshop here.
