Gnamma

A gnamma, or water hole, is a natural cavity formed in surface rock. They are most commonly found in granite outcrops and are a vital source of water in the arid regions of Australia. The smaller of these simply collect and store rainwater, whilst larger and deeper gnammas may be replenished by groundwater. Their size and formation tend to mean water evaporates and is exploited at a slower rate. Traditionally indigenous people would partially cover these with slabs of rock or branches to further slow their depletion. They would also fill the sources with twigs which would allow animals to drink from the source but enable a means of escape for them if they became trapped. This ensured the water be free from fatal contamination that could ensue from an animal carcass. Typically gnammas are an ephemeral water source, though some can hold many thousands of litres of water. The impermanence of water in Australia’s drier country meant groups and individuals would traverse from one water source to another as and when each dried up. Gnammas are a base of sustenance warranting flora and fauna alike to flourish in the surrounding area. It’s also been noted that Aboriginal people would construct various systems around such spaces in order to maximise their chances of gathering food whilst settled in the locality. There have been stories of elaborate fences skirting the sides of outcrops, with big holes at the end which would trap unsuspecting prey that had been chased down. I have personally come across evidence of lizard ‘traps’ on such outcrops too. Whilst not traps in the true sense of the word, simple structures would be created from slabs of rock to form an idyllic home for lizards. A place that provides solid protection and respite for any creature who may come across it. An early and telling sign of animal husbandry lies here, as this surely meant recurring and sustainable food for the local folk.