Resource: Afghan Cameleers in Australia

Description

The role of the ‘Afghan’ cameleers (many of whom were not Afghans) in Australian history, particularly in the late 19^th century, is starting to be recognised today. These people played a vital role in opening routes across the interior of the country, and also brought Islam to Australia. They blazed the trails that later became the roads and railways, and they led their camel caravans along these routes, where later trucks and trains would carry the goods. They made close associations with Aboriginal people, who lived in the interior of Australia, and often showed them their own routes. The cameleers also provided vital services to settlers, especially on remote stations.

This resource, part of our ‘Migrants’ series, examines the history and contributions of ‘Afghan’ cameleers in Australia, and aligns with Year 4, 5 and 6 Australian Curriculum History, Geography, Civics and Citizenship and HASS.