Jillian Garvey

I am currently a Tracey Banivanua Mar Senior Research Fellow in the Department of Archaeology and History at La Trobe University. I have combined my background in zoology and archaeology to specialise in ‘zooarchaeology’ or the role of animals in Australian archaeology. My current research focuses on lutruwita (Tasmania), on Ngintait and First People of the Millewa Mallee Country in northwest Victoria, and on Yung Balug and Dja Dja Wurrung Country in central Victoria. I have also worked on faunal assemblages from Lake Mungo and Cuddie Springs in NSW, the Pilbara in WA, and in central China. This research has included studying both archaeological assemblages, as well as modern native animal butchery and nutrition to help interpret the archaeological record and better understand how people were living on Country for millennia.
Besides research, I also undertake specialist faunal analyses for commercial consultancies, and provide advice for Government agencies and Aboriginal Traditional Owners. I also teach animal bone and shell identification and zooarchaeology.