Genetic analysis of nearly 2500 genomes indicates the initial human settlement of the ancient continent of Sahul occurred approximately 60,000 years ago. Researchers concluded this migration involved two distinct paths: a southern route from Southeast Asia through islands like Timor, and a more prominent northern route via the Philippines and Sulawesi. This finding strongly supports the ’long chronology’ for human arrival, challenging theories of a more recent settlement around 45,000 years ago.
The study provides robust evidence that the northern route was the primary pathway for populating the landmass. Beyond the initial settlement, the research also uncovered evidence of return voyages and further exploration. An ancient New Guinean genetic lineage was identified in a 1700-year-old burial on Sulawesi, and soon after arriving, seafaring peoples traveled east to the Solomon Islands, showcasing their remarkable maritime capabilities.
This research, combining genetics with archaeological finds like the 51,200-year-old rock art in Sulawesi, paints a complex picture of ancient human movement. It confirms that the first Australians undertook perilous ocean crossings to reach the continent, establishing a presence that dates back at least 60,000 years and involved multiple waves of exploration and interaction across the region.
