Mennge‐ya and the origins of points: new insights into the appearance of points in the semi‐arid zone of the Northern Territory

Abstract

Abstract Dates for the initial appearance of points in the semi‐arid zone of the Northern Territory are discussed in the light of archaeological excavations in a rockshelter near Katherine. Analysis of the stone artefacts from Mennge‐ya indicates the presence of a two‐phased sequence of stone artefact assemblages, with points restricted to the upper levels. A comparison of dates for the first appearance of unifacial and bifacial points in different parts of northern Australia suggests a movement from the northeast (Arnhem Land) to the southwest (Victoria River and the Kimberley), and then later to the arid interior. Relationships between the introduction of points and the arrival and expansion of new languages are briefly explored.