Ma-rnabaka: ma-wurrrama kulu ma-wirrimalaru – The cycad: a tree of authority and of great spiritual power: an examination of Australian Cycas species

This thesis examined the relationship between scientific and Indigenous knowledges using cycads as a case study. Refined protocols were developed, allowing all cycad toxins to be measured in the same tissues concurrently. The new knowledge generated challenges existing understandings about cycad dispersal and resource allocation. The work scientifically supports Yanyuwa knowledge, demonstrating that Yanyuwa processing methods successfully and consistently detoxified cycad seed. Emplacement of processing knowledge within culture and Law ensured consistent preparation, explaining the absence of cycad poisoning amongst Yanyuwa. Reflexive practice in Western science is needed to allow for a genuine engagement with Indigenous knowledges on equal terms.