Four Gweagal spears, taken by James Cook and Joseph Banks in 1770, have been repatriated to the La Perouse Aboriginal Community. The spears hold great cultural significance and their return marks a significant step towards reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
Four Aboriginal spears taken by Captain James Cook over 250 years ago will be permanently returned to Australia in a ceremony at Cambridge University. The spears, considered highly significant, were agreed for repatriation in March 2022 after a campaign and formal request from the La Perouse Aboriginal community. The return marks Trinity College’s commitment to reviewing the legacies of the British empire and acknowledges the historical misunderstandings and conflict that surrounded Captain Cook’s landing in Botany Bay.
