Defending Territories & Making Peace

The Komet clan on the northwest side of Mer specialised in fishing, voyaging and trading.
They're the "front side people", whose clan territory faces Papua New Guinea.

By contrast , the clan on the eastern side of the island, assisted by its fertile soil, became food-growing experts.

But, despite their specialisations, all Meriam remained "salt water people".

Intermarriage, trade and gift exchanges between the clans were common.

However, they also feuded and fought; they still feud today.

During the Mabo case for example, a boundary marker on the foreshore became the focus of intense feeling, as Mr Marwer Depoma confronted the court party during its inspection tour, "whoop whooping" loudly and disputing Eddie Mabo's claim to the area.