CENTURY-OLD RIJI RETURNED TO THE BARDI JAWI PEOPLE
Estimated century old shell also known as riji
BY ASAD KHAN
A Sacred Shell Finds Its Way Home
A ceremonial pearl shell of deep cultural and spiritual importance has been returned to the Bardi Jawi People on the Dampier Peninsula. The engraved shell, known as a riji, is believed to be more than 100 years old and carries generations of knowledge, identity, and law.
The riji was discovered earlier this year in the window of a Perth op shop by former Rio Tinto employee Chris Olsen, who immediately recognised its cultural value. Rather than allowing the item to remain in private hands, Olsen purchased the artefact and began the process of returning it to Country.
Confirming Cultural Significance
With support from Rio Tinto’s Communities team and Bardi Jawi representatives, the riji was confirmed as a genuine ceremonial artefact and respectfully handed back to senior custodians.
(Back L-R): Chris Olsen, Aaron Davey, David Wiggan, Ashley Hunter (Front ) Robert Wiggan
Rio Tinto Iron Ore Vice President of Health, Safety, Environment and Communities, Caitlin Westgarth, said the return was an example of what can be achieved when cultural awareness is paired with genuine partnerships.
“This is a powerful example of how enduring relationships and cultural awareness can lead to meaningful outcomes,” he said.
“Stories like this remind us of the importance of listening deeply, learning continuously, and acting in genuine partnership with Indigenous communities.”
(L-R) Aaron Davey, Gavin Hunter, Russel Davey, Robert Wiggan
A Connection Across Generations
For the Bardi Jawi People, the return of the riji is not only the repatriation of an artefact but also a restoration of cultural identity and tradition.
Traditional Owner Aaron Davey said the return carried immense meaning.
“On behalf of the Bardi Jawi People of the Dampier Peninsula, I want to thank Chris for finding and returning this very old riji back to the People and Country it belongs.” he said.
“This artefact is not only a connection to our past but an important representation of the identity, values and traditions of the Bardi Jawi People.”
Cultural and Ceremonial Value
Bardi Jawi Traditional Owner Ashley Hunter explained the deeper role riji play in cultural life.
“Riji to the Bardi Jawi people, it’s very important because it’s the decoration of a riji. It’s used in our dance and our law. People who go through law, such as young boys, it identifies their name through certain stages in the law,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of respect and responsibility in returning cultural objects.
“Sometimes people would want to charge money, but it’s always good to just hand it back because it belongs to us. That respect with Chris Olsen and us—it’s good, because just with him giving it back, we thank him.”
Protecting and Honouring Culture
The return of the riji underscores ongoing efforts to protect cultural heritage and ensure traditional objects remain connected to the communities that created and continue to safeguard them.
For the Bardi Jawi People, the riji will once again serve its rightful place as a living part of culture, law, and ceremony.
Listen to Ngaarda Media’s Asad Khan speak with Ashley Hunter: