21/3/04
An ancient Noongar burial ground under an isolated tree stump east of Albany has been honoured in a project that will preserve the site for future generations.
Indigenous Affairs Minister John Kobelke today announced the completion of the Southern Aboriginal Corporation Community Development Employment Program (CDEP), run by the City of Albany, which created a protective wall around a marri tree stump understood to be more than 100 years old.
Mr Kobelke said the project typified the City of Albany's approach to indigenous issues and it was an important one to highlight on Harmony Day.
"Everything has been done with respect and consideration for Aboriginal heritage and this is a great example of co-operation that brings greater understanding," he said.
"During work on a road building project, a local land owner advised the Department of Indigenous Affairs (DIA) that the remains of two Aboriginal people had been discovered at the base of the black stump in the 1950s."
After being notified, DIA then recorded and registered the site under the Aboriginal Heritage Act, to ensure its long-term protection.
The Minister said local Noongar elders were consulted during each phase of the road project and their wishes fulfilled when the road route was altered.
"The area surrounding the black stump has been protected by stonework and marked by a granite slab, fitted with a plaque explaining the area's significance," he said.
At the unveiling ceremony, Mr Kobelke told the Noongar community and guests the whole process showed the Albany Aboriginal Accord had been successful.
The accord, developed with the assistance of the Department of Indigenous Affairs and signed by the City of Albany and local Noongar people, is a commitment by all parties to promote indigenous culture and heritage.
The Minister explained that the area near Robinson Road in South Gledhow was part of a trail, used by various Aboriginal groups who had often buried people at locations like the black stump, because they were landmarks that enabled people to return later.
"Ultimately the site has become a permanent monument to those buried there and the project highlights the proper way to handle sites of significance to Aboriginal people," he said.
Mr Kobelke also warned that under new laws that would come into force on April 1, damage to Aboriginal heritage sites would carry new penalties of up to $100,000 and two years' jail.
"When people don't do the right thing, under the Aboriginal Heritage Act, the fine for disturbing an Aboriginal heritage site will increase up to $20,000 and/or nine months' imprisonment for offences committed by an individual and up to $50,000 for a corporation," he said.
"Individuals convicted a second time will be fined up to $40,000 and could face up to two years' jail and a corporation's second offence will attract a fine of up to $100,000."
The Minister said the amendments made under the Sentencing Laws Legislation would be enforced from next month and maximum daily fines of $400 for individuals or $1,000 for a corporation could also be applied under the changes.
Minister's office: 9222 9211
