Why did aboriginal people help miners in the early years?

Aboriginal people helped miners in the early years primarily out of economic necessity, as the influx of miners created new opportunities for trade and employment. They often provided essential services, such as guiding and supplying food, in exchange for goods and money. Additionally, some Aboriginal groups sought to establish relationships with the miners, hoping to gain access to new resources and technologies. However, these interactions were complex and varied significantly across different regions and communities.