General News
4 November, 2024
Barengi Gadjin Land Council encouraged by government's investment
Established rock-climbing areas will remain open to climbers
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allen announced on November 4, 2024, that more Victorians would be able to enjoy the Arapiles-Tooan State Park -Dyurrite Cultural Landscape - because the government was investing in its facilities and protecting its natural wonders for future generations.
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos announced a $1.7 million investment to improve the facilities, tracks, and access points at Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park - Dyurrite Cultural Landscape.
It will improve parking, refresh tracks and trails, and upgrade visitor facilities, including new barbecues, picnic tables, toilets, and signage telling the area's cultural story.
This investment follows the release of the draft management plan for Mount Arapiles-Tooan State Park-Dyurrite Cultural Landscape, which includes areas of cultural significance to the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia, and Jupagulk Peoples.
The Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins said, "It's important we get the balance right, respect cultural heritage and allow Victorians to continue to visit and enjoy the outdoors in the Dyurrite Cultural Landscape."
The area is home to one of Australia's largest stone quarry complexes, which has rock art and scar trees dating back 3000 years.
Under the draft management plan, the Dyurrite Cultural Landscape will continue to be a place for climbing, walks, camping, and many other activities.
Eighty of the established rock-climbing areas will be open to climbers.
The updated management plan provides certainty for the Traditional Owners, represented by the Barengi Gadjin Land Council, and all state park users.
The celebration of the rediscoveries in Dyurrite serves as a tribute to Darren Griffin, archaeologist and Co-Executive Officer of BGLC, for his advocacy, collaboration, and determination. It acknowledges his dedication to this project and his efforts to realise the aspirations of Elders and Traditional Owners today.
Alongside his Traditional Owner colleagues, Darren worked tirelessly to ensure that the cultural heritage of Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia, and Jupagulk was protected and celebrated for generations to come.
The Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos, said, "We want as many Victorians as possible to enjoy the great outdoors. This investment will allow more visitors to appreciate the park while celebrating and protecting its cultural and environmental wonders for future generations."
Lyn Mace, Deputy Chair Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, said, "The Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia, and Jupagulk Peoples have lived in and cared for the Dyurrite Cultural Landscape for tens of thousands of years.
"We share a deep spiritual and cultural connection to this remarkable landscape, which is rich in irreplaceable cultural heritage, artefacts, and creation stories.
"Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation is encouraged by the Government's investment in Dyurrite and its support for the implementation of appropriate cultural heritage and environmental protections for the benefit of all. We look forward to welcoming everyone to experience this culturally significant landscape firsthand."
Public consultation on the draft management plan is open until December 2. To provide feedback, visit engage.vic.gov.au/dyurrite.
This developing story will be updated as the draft management feedback becomes available to the public.