Aboriginal land protection and preservation

Bush regenerators are frequently in close contact with Aboriginal sites in their day-to-day work. If you are a bush regenerator or volunteer bush regenerator it is important to be aware of the different types of Aboriginal sites and what to do when you may be working near a site.

All natural areas are remnants of Aboriginal land that have usually remained intact and relatively undisturbed by colonisation. As a result all natural areas have the potential to contain Aboriginal heritage. If you are working in areas that may contain Aboriginal sites ensure that you:

• look out for surface shell material and/or bones. If you find either:
  • stop work immediately and let your supervisor know. Do not dig here, or poke around to see what you can find, this will disturb and maybe damage the site. It’s better to leave it as it is. Move away from the area and keep working. It is likely to be a midden or a burial site. The supervisor should sketch its location on a site plan, and let Bushcare know;
  • try to avoid digging or disturbing the soil surface. Small plants/weeds can be removed by the roots, but do not disturb the ground more than is necessary;
• when you are planting, keep an eye out for shell/bone material. Avoid planting and digging in areas that are identified as having shell middens.
• do not leave waste material on any part of the site;
• do not light fires without consultation and prior arrangement with appropriate department staff;
• avoid leaving tracks that lead to sites where possible;
• do not disturb rocks or features that may impact on the site;
• do not use chemicals near art sites or engravings;
• do not walk on or touch art works;
• do not remove artefacts from site;
• if any relics are found contact the appropriate staff and avoid disturbing them;
• do not plant in middens;
• if you are not sure, then don’t;
• notify Wollongong City Council Bushcare as soon as you think you may have found a heritage item or site.