Summary

The Leangle deriving from the Dja Dja Wurrung word "leang" meaning tooth was a club consisting of a long straight handle which curved to a 90 degree angle at the top forming a sharp pointed head.
The leangle was used in single combat in conjunction with a small, flat-faced and angular backed shield known as a Mulga, and was considered to be perhaps the most dangerous weapon of its type, as the point could be suddenly turned at the moment of striking. Both the point and the round of the weapon were used during battle, with its particular shape allowing the warrior to strike around the shield of his opponent.

The Dja Dja Wurrung peoples are sometimes also referred to as Jaara, meaning 'people' in their language. Dja Dja Wurrung Country is located in Central Victoria and takes in the townships of Bendigo, Castlemaine, Daylesford, Maryborough, St Arnaud, Avoca, Kyneton and Wedderburn. Like many Aboriginal groups across Victoria, The Dja Dja Wurrung community are currently undertaking a language renewal project with the assistance of the Victorian Aboriginal Corporation for Languages.

Physical Description

Wooden club with long straight handle curving to a 90 degree angle at the top forming a sharp pointed head.

Significance

Taunwurrung Elder Uncle Larry Walsh shares his knowledge of this weapon;

'The Leangle was also associated with tooth avulsion ceremonies at Lanjanuc (Mount Alexander), this was a ceremonial site, and only the boys went there, with their Uncles. Aboriginal men made their weapons to have a perfect balance, weight and length to suit their height. When I hold this one I can tell that the man who made this was a good eight centimetres taller than me'. Larry Walsh, 2013.

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