Freed from the rigour of work from noon Saturday until roll call the same evening and all-day Sunday the prisoners enjoyed their temporary freedom. Many, particularly those from far inland, spent their time hunting the abundant wildlife utilising spears, boomerangs and other hunting implements made from the vegetation on the island and applying their excellent tracking skills in the pursuit of wildlife. On returning to the compound the prisoners cooked their catch, often in a traditional manner.
Others preferred aquatic activities such as swimming and fishing and more leisurely sporting pursuits.
Time was also spent, by the more enterprising, in the production of paintings and artefacts that were sold to an ever-increasing number of tourists. In 1917 the warden reported that the prisoners were selling wallabies and handing the proceeds to him for safe keeping. One of a number of fine paintings produced by Johnny Cudgel while imprisoned on Wadjemup. The vessel 'City of York' was wrecked off the eastern coast of the island in 1899 while en route to Fremantle from San Francisco. In addition to these works that were readily sought after, Cudgel was noted for his model making abilities and the 'creation of comical illustrations.
cons968, item 1969, State Records Office of WA
Cultural Acknowledgement
The Western Australian Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of this State. We pay tribute to the Aboriginal Elders of the past, present and respect to all those who have contributed to this invaluable and emotionally driven project.
The DLGSC also recognises the significance of Aboriginal history and culture in contributing to our national identity and is committed to working with Aboriginal people to promote, educate and share this vision.
Disclaimer
This publication contains the names and images of deceased people. All readers are advised that the inclusion of words, terms or descriptions from historical records reflect the social attitudes of the time in which they were written and may be considered offensive today.
