Walcha Council was successful in their application for a grant under the 2012 NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Program to build a place of reflection adjacent to the Aboriginal section of the general cemetery.
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The project was a collaborative effort of Amaroo Local Aboriginal Land Council, Jobs Australia Enterprises, local artists and Indigenous artists, specialist trades, community groups and organisations and Council.
Initially the area was surveyed using non-destructive radar to identify burial sites that had not been marked with headstones. Based on these findings and consultation with the local Aboriginal Community plans were developed for the location of works and a proposed design that had cultural significance.
Jobs Australia Enterprises along with New England TAFE, Tamworth provided supervisors and training for participants of the program who where enrolled to complete Certificate II in Landscaping. Local artists were engaged to install special features such as wood sculptures, rock walls and polished basalt that highlight the reflection area.
There were many people who happily gave their knowledge and time and it is the local information particularly that was essential.
The project has strengthened relations between groups and individuals in our community, while providing further knowledge and understanding of the culture and history of the Aboriginal people in our district and the education and training involved has been of benefit to all participants.
The Place of Reflection will be officially opened by the Hon. Leslie Williams MP on Monday August 8 at 10:00am at the Walcha General Cemetery and all are welcome to attend.
