There's an eel known as a living fossil because it resembles its dinosaur-era ancestors. And the Budj Bim eel traps, at least 6600 years old, confirmed that First Nations people have been catching eels for millennia. In medieval England, these fish were used to pay the rent and today, Australians have even turned them into musical instruments and glass art.

This episode features historian and curator, Dr Jacqui Newling; chef and co-owner of Porcine Bistro and founder of Smoketrap Eels, Nik Hill; food writer, photographer and award-winning author, Emiko Davies; composer, performer and marine scientist, Emily Sheppard; and glass artist, Jennifer Kemarre Martiniello OAM (Arrernte). A special thanks to the National Film and Sound Archive; the Tasmanian Archives; and the University of Melbourne. 

This episode was inspired by items from the Powerhouse Collection, such as Jennifer's glass eel traps, Japanese fabric featuring eels and a 19th century image of fishermen showing off their eel catch.  

Culinary Archive Podcast is a Powerhouse series hosted by Lee Tran Lam. Listen to season 1 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube.

Image: Alana Dimou