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Home , Aboriginal Victorians, Gunditjmara, Jill Gallagher, Koorie Heritage Trust, Land council, Wergaia

THE VICTORIAN 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY ABORIGINAL HERITAGE COUNCIL INTRODUCTION

Aboriginal peoples of Through these events, the Council’s integrity have fought and sound decision making were affirmed. for generations for The Parliamentary Inquiry produced a positive recognition of their report on the Council’s work. Amendments to unique relationship the Act passed in 2016 gave the Council more with and custodianship responsibilities. And the judicial decision upheld of their lands. This the Council’s decision, endorsed the Council’s month, we celebrate decision making processes, and ordered costs in the anniversaries of favour of the Council. two key milestones in The Council’s work has also been significantly the fight for Aboriginal rewarding. Aboriginal cultural heritage is now recognition and self determination. managed by Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs) Fifty years ago on 27 May, Australians voted in more than fifty per cent of the state. We have overwhelmingly to amend the Constitution to a dedicated unit working for the return and include Aboriginal peoples in the census and protection of our Ancestors’ remains. And we are to allow the Commonwealth to create laws for/ seeing greater recognition of Traditional Owners about Aboriginal peoples. and their roles with respect to cultural heritage management. Ten years ago on 28 May, the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 came into effect. These milestones could not have occurred without the commitment of so many people, The Act created the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage those before us and those who walk alongside Council, the first statutory body in Victoria whose us today. members must be Traditional Owners. On behalf of the Council, I would particularly The Council’s journey over these ten years has like to acknowledge the contribution of former been challenging at times: Council members, previous Chairpersons, • the Council was one of the subjects of a Council’s Secretariat and key stakeholders who Parliamentary Inquiry undertaken by the have supported us in realising our vision. previous Victorian Government in 2013; We remain determined to ensure Victoria’s rich • the Act was reviewed between 2012 and 2016; heritage is protected and that our Ancestors and, are returned to Country.

• there was a judicial review of one of Council’s decisions in the Supreme Court. Eleanor A Bourke Chairperson

Warning: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers should be aware that this document contains images or names of people who have passed away. REGISTERED Barengi Gadjin Aboriginal Corporation ABORIGINAL Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation

PARTIES Aboriginal Corporation As at 23 May 2017 Gunaikurnai not currently a RAP Area shown is the RSA under the Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010

Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation

Martang Pty Ltd

Taungurung Clans Aboriginal Corporation

Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation

Wurundjeri Tribe Land and Compensation Cultural Heritage Council Inc.

Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation

Indicates an area where more than one RAP exists e.g. Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation and Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation THE VICTORIAN ABORIGINAL HERITAGE COUNCIL

4 FEBRUARY Council and the Heritage Council of Victoria launch the Framework of Historical Themes to promote understanding of Victoria’s complex history

9 SEPTEMBER Council helps develop and welcomes the Traditional 18 OCTOBER Owner Settlement Bill 2010 5 AUGUST Council meets for that advocates for a system Council launches its the first time that achieves land justice for first Strategic Plan Victorian Traditional Owners

2006 2008 2010

2011 2007 16 FEBRUARY 9 MARCH 2009 Council welcomes the Council receives its first 14 OCTOBER Parliamentary Inquiry into Registered Aboriginal Party Council helps develop and the Establishment and (RAP) application - by the launch the Certificate IV in Effectiveness of RAPs end of that year Council Aboriginal Cultural Heritage had received 22 RAP Management 26 MAY applications Council launches its 10 NOVEMBER second Strategic Plan Council invites all RAPs to 28 MAY participate in the very first Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 RAP Forum to facilitate comes into effect and interaction and spread Council begins operating experiences and best practice

30 MAY Council appoints Victoria’s first RAP – Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation 17 MAY 22 MARCH Council co-hosts a The Aboriginal Heritage youth forum with the Amendment Bill passes in KYC and the Trust, Parliament giving Council greater involving cultural responsibilities for the protection mapping, weaving, and management of Aboriginal storytelling and a cultural heritage tour on Country 1 AUGUST JULY Council’s new functions and Council publishes its recommendations powers, following amendments for change regarding the return to the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006, of Ancestral Remains, Bringing Our come into effect Ancestors Home: We will not be well until NOVEMBER this is done 28 SEPTEMBER The Parliamentary Inquiry Justice Bell of the Supreme Court into the Establishment 8 SEPTEMBER hands down his decision in the and Effectiveness of RAPs Council matter of Gunaikurnai Land and releases its findings, publishes its Waters Aboriginal Corporation recommending better third Strategic -v- the Council, upholding legislative recognition of Plan the Council’s decision and the primacy of Traditional describing its decision making as Owners “scrupulous” 2014 2012 2016

MARCH 2013 Council releases Bringing our Ancestors Home: FEBRUARY2015 Managing and returning Ancestral Remains in The JSG holds the Victoria for comment last of five regional FEBRUARY2017 meetings across Council’s Chairperson and 18 APRIL the state regarding Deputy Chairperson are In partnership with the protection and invited to meet with the South the Koorie Youth return of Ancestors Australian State Aboriginal Council (KYC) and Heritage Committee the National Trust of 12 DECEMBER (VIC) (Trust), Uncle Wally Cooper APRIL Council co-hosts passes away after a Council members are invited Our history: More brief illness to meet with the Aboriginal than rocks, an event Heritage Council of for young people to come together to explore over three days Victoria’s cultural heritage

14 MAY In responding to the Parliamentary Inquiry into These exchanges the Establishment and Effectiveness of RAPs, the provide valuable Government acknowledges the primacy of learning experiences Traditional Owners in cultural heritage protection and opportunities to and management share how cultural heritage protection SEPTEMBER is legislated in other Council establishes a Joint Steering Group (JSG), states and the role of with the then Office of Aboriginal Affairs Victoria state-wide bodies in and holds a series of five regional consultation its protection. meetings during 2014 and 2015 VICTORIAN ABORIGINAL HERITAGE COUNCIL MEMBERS

ELEANOR A BOURKE TIM CHATFIELD GERALDINE ATKINSON CHAIRPERSON DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON MEMBER

Eleanor Bourke was born in Tim Chatfield of Halls Gap Geraldine Atkinson is a Hamilton, Victoria and is a is a member of the Djab Bangerang/Wiradjuri woman prominent member of the Wurrung community and has who has devoted her career people with a career held numerous leadership to expanding the possibilities in Aboriginal affairs spanning positions in Aboriginal available to Koorie people 40 years in Victoria, the ACT communities, serving as through education. For over and . Eleanor Chairperson of the Victorian 30 years, Geraldine has been has held various executive Aboriginal Housing Board and a significant presence in the positions in the community and previously as Chairperson Koorie and wider Victorian in State and Federal government and Regional Councilor for community, beginning as a sectors, including five years as the Tumbukka Region of the Teacher’s Aide in 1976 to her the co-Chair of Reconciliation Aboriginal and Torres Strait current role as President of the Victoria. Islander Commission. Tim’s Victorian Aboriginal Education cultural heritage expertise and Association Incorporated (VAEAI) Eleanor has made a significant experience has been sought since 1999. Currently, Geraldine contribution to the Council on a wide range of local and is the Victorian representative during her four terms as a statewide plans and initiatives. for the National Indigenous member, Chairperson and Tim has been a Council member Education Consultative Body, Deputy Chairperson. Eleanor’s since 2007 and has served as Deputy Chair of the Secretariat three-year appointment as a Deputy Chairperson for three National Aboriginal and Islander Council member will end on of those years. Tim’s three-year Child Care, and Chair of Lulla’s 12 August 2018. appointment as a Council member Children and Family Centre in will end on 30 June 2019. . Geraldine’s three- year appointment as a Council member will end on 6 November 2019. JENNNIFER BEER JIM BERG RODNEY CARTER MEMBER MEMBER MEMBER

Jennifer Beer is a proud and Jim Berg is a Rodney Carter is a descendant strong Wudyubaluk woman man. Jim was the founder of Dja Dja Wurrung and Yorta from the / of the Koorie Heritage Trust Yorta people and resides in region and is a descendant of Inc and was involved in the Bendigo. He currently works Yanggendyinanyuk (Dick-a-Dick). establishment of the Victorian for his people, the Dja Dja She has 30 years’ experience in Aboriginal Legal Service. He Wurrung, as Group CEO Education and a Diploma was a leading figure in a legal of Dja Dja Wurrung Clans in Vocational Education and battle that resulted in Aboriginal Aboriginal Corporation and Training. Jenny was part of human remains held by the Dja Dja Wurrung Enterprises negotiating the first successful University of and Pty Ltd. Rodney was involved Native Title Claim in Victoria. the Museum of Victoria being in negotiating for, and being She has also done revival and returned to Country and a signatory to, the Dja Dja reclamation of her language reburied. Jim is co-author of Wurrung people’s native Wergaia, with the support of the The Power and the Passion: Our title settlement under the Victorian School of Languages. Ancestors Return Home and has Traditional Owner Settlement Jenny is passionate about her been a Justice of the Peace for Act 2010. Rodney has made a culture and language and the 42 years. Jim was the inaugural significant contribution to the rights of all to live and practice Chair of the Council and served Council during his four terms their culture. Jenny has been a again as Chair during 2010. as a member, Chairperson and member since 2011, including Jim’s three-year appointment as Deputy Chairperson. Rodney’s a term as Deputy Chairperson. a Council member will end on three-year appointment as a Jenny’s three-year appointment 30 June 2019. Council member will end on as a Council member will end on 31 August 2018. 6 July 2017. NELLIE FLAGG AO MICK HARDING MEMBER MEMBER MEMBER

Nellie Flagg (nee Taylor / Jill Gallagher is a Gunditjmara Mick Harding is a Taungurung Charles) is a descendant of woman from Western Victoria man, dedicated to protecting Wemba Wemba, Dja Wrung who has worked within, led and reinvigorating culture and Boonwurrung and lives on and advocated for the Victorian within his community. Mick Wathaurung Country (). Aboriginal community all is involved in coordinating Nellie has worked for and with her life. Jill has been CEO workshops to promote Aboriginal people for over 30 of the Victorian Aboriginal Aboriginal culture through his years in different roles within Community Controlled Health art and storytelling and has State and Commonwealth Organisation (VACCH) since many years’ experience in government agencies as well 2001 and was instrumental in cultural heritage management. as community organisations, achieving bipartisan support Mick was Chairperson of including the Department for the ‘Statement of Intent’ to Taungurung Clans Aboriginal of Justice and ‘Close the Gap’ in Aboriginal life Corporation and its first Aboriginal Co-operative. expectancy. representative on the board Nellie is proud of who she is of the Federation of Victorian Prior to working at VACCHO, and where she has come from. Traditional Owner Corporations. Jill worked for the return of Nellie’s three-year appointment During his four terms, Mick has Indigenous skeletal remains as a Council member will end made a significant contribution and Indigenous cultural on 7 August 2019. to the Council as a member, property. She has also sat on Chairperson and Deputy various committees, the Equal Chairperson. Mick’s three-year Opportunity Commission appointment as a Council member Victoria Indigenous Reference will end on 30 August 2018. Group and the Premiers Aboriginal Advisory Committee. Jill was included in the Victorian Honour Roll of Women in 2010 and awarded an Order of Australia in 2013. Jill’s three-year appointment as a Council member will end on 30 June 2019.

MARIE (SISSY) HAVEA RON JONES MEMBER MEMBER

Marie (Sissy) Havea resides in Ron Jones is a Robinvale and has traditional man with strong links to ties to the waters of the Murray, and Bullum Lachlan and Murrumbidgee Bullum in Burnside. Ron brings rivers and flood plains. For more extensive knowledge of issues than two decades, Sissy has affecting worked for and with Aboriginal as founder and Secretary of people in various areas the Aboriginal Medical Service including health, education and in Fitzroy, co-founder of the cultural heritage protection. Adoption Centre for Aboriginal Sissy is committed to leading Children and his volunteer and supporting community work at various Aboriginal to achieve its aspirations organisations. Over the last 10 and values creating real and years, Ron has served on the respectful partnerships as Elders’ Committee of Wurundjeri part of this. Sissy is also very Tribe Land and Compensation passionate about ensuring Old Cultural Heritage Council. People are returned to Country Ron is passionate about and and follows the legacy of her committed to the preservation late father to protect Ancestors. of Aboriginal cultural heritage Sissy’s three-year appointment and the teaching and sharing as a Council member will end on of history. R o n ’ s t h r e e - y e a r t e r m 6 November 2019. on the Council ends on 6 November 2019.

PREVIOUS MEMBERS

stakeholders to achieve the best DAMEIN BELL outcome in the preservation Damein Bell is from the of cultural heritage on her Gunditjmara nation of traditional Country. Bonnie is Southwest Victoria. Damein also a regular lecturer promoting has over 30 years’ experience cultural heritage management. in Aboriginal affairs including Bonnie served as a Council education, training, native member from October 2012 title, land justice and caring until January 2015. for country. Damein’s previous roles include member of Parks Victoria Board and the GRAHAM ATKINSON Indigenous Advisory Committee for the Commonwealth’s Graham Atkinson is a Environment Protection and descendant of the Dja Dja Biodiversity Conservation Act Wurrung and 1999. Damein is currently CEO people. Graham has significant of Gunditj Mirring Traditional leadership experience, holding Owners Aboriginal Corporation. positions including Chair of Damein served as a Council Native Title Services Victoria member from May 2007 until and Chair of the Dja Dja May 2009. Wurrung Native Title Group. Graham was appointed WALLY COOPER to the State Government Wally Cooper was a Yorta Steering Committee charged Yorta and Bangerang Elder with developing a native title and was a passionate cultural settlement framework for ambassador who shared his Victoria. Graham has been traditional knowledge with the involved in many high profile wider community. He did this heritage projects including the as a founding member and development of an Indigenous Board member of the Koorie Land Use Agreement with the Heritage Trust, before working Minerals Council of Australia. there as a Cultural Officer and Graham has a Master of Curator. Wally also worked Business Administration and BONNIE CHEW with the Catholic Education degrees in arts and social work. Office, the Victorian Farmers Bonnie Chew is a proud Graham served as a Council Federation, Victoria Police, and Wadawurrung woman with member from May 2007 until on Indigenous interpretive many years’ experience in May 2012. sign projects for both the Aboriginal cultural heritage Rural City of Wangaratta and and education. WAYNE ATKINSON Parks Victoria. In 2012, Wally was inducted to the Victorian Wayne Atkinson served as a Bonnie was the Cultural Indigenous Honour Roll . Wally Council member from May Heritage Co-ordinator for served as a Council member until July in 2009. Wadawurrung, where she worked on approximately 126 from September 2013 until his projects with various and diverse passing in December 2015. Karen served as Council member VICKI COUZENS from Council’s inception in May RICKY MULLETT Vicki Couzens is a prominent 2007 until May 2012. Ricky Mullett is a qualified member of the Kirrae Wurrong archaeologist and has been community. Vicki is a talented a passionate advocate for and accomplished artist who protecting and preserving has played a leading role Aboriginal heritage for over in promoting the culture of 30 years. her people. She was also the As well as playing an advisory Director of the possum cloak role on Aboriginal heritage project for the Melbourne issues locally, regionally, state- 2006 Commonwealth Games. wide and nationally, Ricky was Vicki has excellent leadership involved in running education skills and has extensive and managing programs about experience serving on boards protection and preservation of and committees including the significant Aboriginal sites in Koorie Heritage Trust Inc and South Eastern Australia. Ricky the Victorian Corporation for DENISE LOVETT contributed to the Council Aboriginal Languages. Vicki Denise Lovett is a Gunditjmara during his three terms, from served as a Council member woman. Denise has a wealth 2007 until 2013, as a member, from May 2007 until July 2008. of experience in protecting Chairperson and Deputy cultural heritage, including in Chairperson. her work as Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Officer for the South West and Wimmera Cultural Heritage Program, negotiating agreements on high profile projects including the Portland Wind Towers and the Glenelg Water Pipeline, and as former Executive Officer and Chair of Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation. Denise made a significant KAREN JACKSON contribution to the Council as a member, Chairperson and Karen Jackson is a Yorta Yorta Deputy Chairperson. Denise woman with broad experience in served as a Council member Indigenous affairs ranging from from Council’s inception in May State and Federal Government 2007 until May 2013. to community organisations. She is Director of the Moondani Balluk Indigenous Academic Unit at Victoria University and a previous member of the Victorian Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission. COUNCIL ROLE

The Council plays an important role in the implementation of the Act. The Council’s principal functions are outlined below.

1. MAKING DECISIONS ON REGISTERED 3. PROTECTING ANCESTORS’ RESTING ABORIGINAL PARTY (RAP) PLACES AND RETURNING ANCESTORS APPLICATIONS TO COUNTRY

Since its establishment in 2006, the Council has The Council is the central coordinating body appointed ten RAPs. RAPs are organisations responsible for Ancestral Remains in Victoria. that hold decision-making responsibilities for This role, inherited on 1 August 2016, will protecting Aboriginal cultural heritage in a allow the Council to strengthen the protection specified geographical area. of Aboriginal burial places and deliver better support for Traditional Owners returning “Human rights are a key consideration for the Council when Ancestors to Country. To help implement the determining a RAP application. Victoria’s Charter of Human Rights new legislation, the Council’s Secretariat now and Responsibilities Act 2006 (The Charter) recognises 20 key includes an Ancestral Remains Unit made up of human rights -including cultural rights - and thinking about the three full-time staff. Charter is not only a part of good decision-making for the Council, it’s the law. The Charter requires the Council to act compatibly with “The desecration of our Ancestors’ remains impacts on us, it harms human rights when going about its work, and to consider relevant us. We all have a part to play so that true reconciliation can be human rights when making decisions, including decisions about achieved and our Ancestors returned back to their Country for whether or not to appoint a RAP. The Council has worked hard reburial, where they find peace with our Spiritual Mother the land, to develop internal mechanisms to ensure that human rights are before drifting off into the Dreamtime.” JIM BERG respected in all aspects of RAP decision making.” TIM CHATFIELD

4. SECRET OR SACRED OBJECTS 2. MONITORING RAPS IN VICTORIA

Since 1 August 2016, the Council is responsible From 1 August 2016, there are new obligations for overseeing and supervising the operations in relation to Aboriginal objects that are secret of RAPs. The Council is designing its approach or sacred. A person who has custody of an to this work in collaboration with RAPs and with Aboriginal object that is a secret or sacred object organisations already involved in monitoring but who is not the owner of that object must, RAPs. as soon as practicable, take all reasonable steps “We need RAPs to be viable, strong and inclusive.” to transfer the object into the custody of the Council. The Council is developing some general JILL GALLAGHER guidance about secret or sacred objects and will work with Traditional Owners and the broader Victorian community to keep these objects safe and preserve them for future generations.

“Secret and sacred objects are a big part of who we are. They carry stories that shape us, and we, and future generations, in turn shape them. They need to be with their rightful custodians so they can keep carrying our stories and our connections with them.” JENNIFER BEER 5. MANAGING THE VICTORIAN 7. PROVIDING ADVICE TO THE MINISTER ABORIGINAL CULTURAL FOR ABORIGINAL AFFAIRS AND THE HERITAGE FUND SECRETARY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PREMIER AND CABINET The first Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Fund ever created in Victoria was established on 1 The Council provides advice to the Minister for August 2016. The Council will be responsible Aboriginal Affairs (Minister), both voluntarily and for managing this Fund as guided by the Act. on request, on the protection and management Over time, the Council is hoping to build up the of Aboriginal cultural heritage in Victoria. Fund and to use it for initiatives which support the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage in The Council also advises the Secretary of Victoria. the Department of Premier and Cabinet on establishing standards and fee guidelines for “The protection of Victoria’s Aboriginal cultural heritage is of consultation fees payable to RAPs by sponsors paramount importance to the Victorian community. But protection when preparing Cultural Heritage Management efforts need to be adequately resourced. Council and RAPs need Plans (CHMPs) and assessments, and exercising to be resourced. To this end, we welcome the establishment of the his/her powers in relation to Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Fund and our role in managing it.” Permits, CHMPs and agreements. NELLIE FLAGG “Everybody in this state needs to learn and understand Aboriginal cultural heritage. We will all be better for the experience.” “Each year, approximately 600 Cultural Heritage Management MICK HARDING Plans are undertaken to manage the protection of our cultural heritage. Stronger enforcement measures came into effect with the 2016 amendments to the Act. But our heritage is still being 8. REPORTING TO THE MINISTER destroyed and it breaks my heart. Our heritage and waterways need better protection and looking after.” RON JONES From 1 August 2016, the Council must report to the Minister annually and produce a State of Victoria Aboriginal Cultural Heritage 6. MEASURES TO PROMOTE report every five years. UNDERSTANDING AND AWARENESS “Council welcomes working with RAPs and community to ensure that the Government is informed, through a range of reporting The Council’s work includes promoting mechanisms, of the efforts to protect and manage Victoria’s understanding and awareness of Aboriginal cultural heritage in Victoria. The Council cultural heritage.” ELEANOR BOURKE achieves this through establishing partnerships “The Council is made up of Victorian Traditional Owners, a real and consulting with key stakeholders, voice for our mobs, which keeps us all, as owners of cultural making submissions to reviews of legislation, heritage within our own rights, on the same path - to protect and investigations and inquiries that impact on minimize harm to cultural heritage on our Countries. This Council Aboriginal cultural heritage, and by participating has a unique role in today’s society with state legislation being in external committees and reference groups. administered by Aboriginal people. This in itself is a remarkable “The strongest protection of our cultural sites is achieved when feat thanks to many people involved in cultural heritage for others learn to care. We need more programs to create greater so long. Congratulations to all Victorian Aboriginal people in understanding for the public of just how beautiful and fragile supporting the Act and this Council to continue to protect cultural some of our sites can be.” RODNEY CARTER heritage at a state level.” MARIE (SISSY) HAVEA

“I am excited to be given a position on the Council and am looking forward to contributing to the cultural conversation for the protection of significant Aboriginal sites within the state. It is important that as members we work collectively to ensure all Aboriginal groups cultural rights are respected and recognised.” GERALDINE ATKINSON STAKEHOLDER CONTRIBUTIONS

“On behalf of the Aboriginal from the extensive conversations Heritage Council of Tasmania and information sharing regarding I congratulate the Victorian training in Aboriginal Cultural Aboriginal Heritage Council as you Heritage Management. celebrate your 10th Anniversary. We have especially appreciated the The Victorian Aboriginal Heritage developing relationship between Act 2006 marked a significant our two Councils and the recent improvement in the management visit of three of your members to of Aboriginal heritage in Victoria Tasmania. It was an invaluable and together with the recognition experience discussing areas of of Native Title holders, Registered common interests, progress ABORIGINAL Aboriginal Parties (RAPs) and ‘Right made and some of the unfinished HERITAGE COUNCIL People for Country’ processes business still to be done. We have enabled greater participation look forward to this relationship OF TASMANIA of Aboriginal people in the continuing to grow. management of your land, including On behalf of the Tasmanian your heritage. Aboriginal Heritage Council I The Aboriginal Heritage Council congratulate you and all who have in Tasmania has looked closely shared in the work of the Victorian at the Victorian context when Aboriginal Heritage Council over the considering our own role in heritage last ten years and I wish you all the management and the anticipated best to the coming years.” amendments to Tasmania’s legislative and regulatory ROCKY SAINTY frameworks. We have benefitted Chair

“As a proud Yawuru man from As we move towards the inevitable Broome in , who eventual recognition of Aboriginal had the opportunity to attend and Torres Strait Islander peoples school in Victoria, I have always in our founding document, the been mindful of the significant Constitution, the recognition of contribution that the of the significance of our cultural Victoria have made to the growth heritage has been also rising. of cultural heritage recognition Now, it is clear that the mainstream of Aboriginal Australia. Whether Australian population is ready to it is the fascinating stone works learn more about our Indigenous and cultural landscape of Budj culture and our Indigenous Bim; the beautiful visitor’s centre heritage. When this heritage is SENATOR at Brambuk in the Grampians; or acknowledged in the Constitution, PATRICK DODSON the proud history of communities all of Australia will be a better place such as Coranderrk, the heritage for it.” of Aboriginal people in Victoria has illuminated the national history of our country. Of course, the invention of the great game of footy, is also part of that story. “I am very pleased to join with sacred objects to their Traditional the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Owners. Council (Council) in celebrating It is also opportune to mention their ten year anniversary. It is the Government’s commitment timely to consider the Victorian to the establishment of a new State Government’s commitment Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Fund to Aboriginal self-determination and, as this fund grows, I look and the contributions that recent forward to the Council expanding amendments made to the Aboriginal its ability to support initiatives in Heritage Act 2006 will contribute the management and protection of towards self-determination for Aboriginal cultural heritage in new Aboriginal people and communities and exciting ways. THE HON NATALIE in Victoria. These changes recognise HUTCHINS MP that all Aboriginal Ancestral I commend the Council on its Remains, and secret or sacred work to date and I look forward to MINISTER FOR objects in the state, belong to Council’s increased responsibilities, ABORIGINAL the Traditional Owners from the along with the strengthened roles AFFAIRS areas in which they originated. of the Registered Aboriginal Parties Importantly, at this ten-year whom they appoint, resulting in milestone, Council’s new functions greater positive outcomes for include facilitating the repatriation Aboriginal cultural heritage in of Ancestral Remains and secret or this state.”

“I am honoured to accept the A comprehensive consultation invitation to contribute to the program with Aboriginal Victorians celebration of the ten-year followed this paper’s release. This anniversary of the Victorian led to the introduction of the Act Aboriginal Heritage Council. which established the Council as the authority to appoint Aboriginal The Council has led the way in groups to manage their cultural transitioning decision-making for heritage. the management of Aboriginal cultural heritage from government I am privileged to have worked to Traditional Owner groups. with the distinguished group of Aboriginal Traditional Owners The Council brings together who make up the Council. I feel THE HON GAVIN eminent and knowledgeable a great sense of political and Victorian Traditional Owners to JENNINGS MLC personal satisfaction and humility preside over decision-making about in celebrating their achievements. SPECIAL cultural heritage and is enshrined in It is a profound responsibility MINISTER OF the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (Act) to promote Aboriginal cultural STATE which came into force on 28 May heritage and exercise great care and 2007. wisdom when appointing Registered The origins of the Act can be Aboriginal Parties throughout traced to the 2004 discussion Victoria. paper: ‘Long Ago, Here Today’ This anniversary provides an - Developing an Aboriginal opportunity to reflect upon Council’s Cultural Heritage Management extraordinary achievements, Strategy for Victoria. The Victorian and to welcome the extended Government recognised our responsibilities of the Council under obligation to strengthen processes recent amendments to the Act.” for protecting and managing Aboriginal cultural heritage. STAKEHOLDER CONTRIBUTIONS

“It is a privilege to have been cannot be overstated. Like many connected with the Victorian others, having set out to learn about Aboriginal Heritage Council, Aboriginal culture, I have found that and I warmly congratulate, and there is so much that I can learn commend, the Council for its from it. The traditions, beliefs and outstanding work, over the last ten spirituality, that are at the core years, in preserving, protecting and of Aboriginal culture and life, are rehabilitating Aboriginal culture in of unique value in understanding the context of Victorian society. human life and our place in the world and the universe. The values The work of the Council is of enshrined in Aboriginal culture are fundamental importance to precious and enriching. ensuring the rightful integral role THE HON JUSTICE of Aboriginal culture in the fabric of By working to protect, and gain STEPHEN KAYE AM our community and of our nation. respect for, Aboriginal culture, the As the oldest surviving culture Council is thus playing a critical role in the world, the intrinsic value in the life of our community, and I of Aboriginal culture, and of its offer to it my very best wishes for contribution to Australian society, continued success in that work.”

“Country is a living legacy of our culture, Elders and Ancestors. The Koorie Youth Council congratulates the Aboriginal Heritage Council on its work caring for Country over the past ten years. The Council’s work is crucial to helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people connect with special places in Victoria that tell the continuing story of our people. Over the last ten years the Aboriginal Heritage Council’s presence has been KOORIE YOUTH welcome at Koorie Youth Council COUNCIL events. We have worked together to provide opportunities where the energy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and the wisdom of our Traditional Owners & Elders come together to yarn, create and celebrate. We look forward to continuing to connect and learn from the Council into the future.” “The Council has been clear about natural resource managers, social its vision for Traditional Owners workers and archaeologists. since its inception and has followed Wherever we came from, our work the same direction for the last gives us the same opportunity. ten years. This consistency has We are able to work with a group ensured the Secretariat knows of Traditional Owners who are how to progress, even though we passionate about Aboriginal cultural have challenges and achievements, heritage and united in making highs and lows. decisions that deliver formal legal recognition for Traditional Owners. Council members have also been This has never happened before clear since the beginning that in Victoria and we have the unique their strength came from their privilege of making our contribution MARIA PIZZI unity and have always seen the to achieving the Council’s vision. Secretariat as part of the team. As a Secretariat, we have been I offer my sincere and profound at our best and delivered our thanks to all Council members best when we worked together who have generously shared their to contribute to the achievement knowledge and friendship over our of the Council’s vision. We come remarkable journey together. It’s from a range of professional been the opportunity of a lifetime backgrounds – lawyers, linguists, for me.“ educators, planners, historians,

“Museums Victoria has worked Museums Victoria staff have closely with the Victorian Aboriginal presented an annual report to Heritage Council (together with Council meetings; co-hosted state- Aboriginal Victoria and the Victorian wide workshops with Registered Government Solicitor’s Office) Aboriginal Parties and other key over the past five years in relation Aboriginal agencies and groups; and MUSEUM VICTORIA to amendments (2016) to the drafted detailed submissions on Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 and changes to the Amendments to the the transition of responsibility for Act and to the Parliamentary Inquiry repatriation of Ancestral Remains in to Registered Aboriginal Parties.” and Secret Sacred Objects to the Council. This has involved a range of interagency meetings as well as a meeting between the Council and the Museums Board’s Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee. STAKEHOLDER CONTRIBUTIONS

“Registered Aboriginal Parties The Aboriginal Heritage Act 2016 (RAPs) now grow stronger! In amendments have elevated RAP 2007, with the initial appointment roles and responsibilities, giving by the Council of Gunditj Mirring greater legislative strength to our Traditional Owners Aboriginal voices. Throughout these past ten Corporation and then by years we have continually proven progressive RAP appointments, our resilience and capacity as RAPs RAP WORKING RAPs have all experienced the in managing our businesses, which GROUP new ways that were introduced are focused on Traditional Owner to formalise our involvement with participation and evaluation of State Government and the private Cultural Heritage Management sector regarding the management Plans and associated assessment and protection of Aboriginal cultural activities. Additionally, working heritage values across Victoria. As together with private land owners the primary source of knowledge and public land managers, and for cultural heritage, our expert with individuals on recording and advice and assistance is regularly repatriation of our cultural heritage, sought by government, proponents our ability to control Aboriginal and the heritage sector. In Victoria, heritage advances steadily. cultural heritage management and In acknowledging and celebrating protection by Traditional Owners the 10th anniversary of the Council has always been strong from and the status that cultural heritage the 1980s through the provision now has with better resourcing of Part IIa under the Aboriginal from the Victorian Government and Torres Strait Islander Cultural and exciting new provisions Heritage Protection Act 1984 to the like increasing the RAP role in establishment of the Aboriginal compliance and how intangible Heritage Act 2006. heritage will be recognised, the A huge turning point for RAPs next 10 years can only be even came in 2012 when the unexpected more deadly. The Council can look Parliamentary Inquiry into the forward to reading annual reports Establishment and Effectiveness of from the RAPs where we will detail RAPs was launched by the Victorian the on-Country delivery of our Parliament at the time. Alongside functions under the Act, but more the challenges of implementing the importantly, to check in with our role of RAPs, the Inquiry reported Aboriginal mobs and work towards on the positive value of managing fulfilling our aspirations for the and protecting our cultural heritage Aboriginal people of Victoria.” held by mainstream Victoria and equally the importance of Traditional Owners being involved on the ground and at policy level.

“Traditional Owners have an incredibly important role in modern Australia. Not only as voices within their communities, but across the wider spectrum. With the ever-changing diversity in our demographic, it is essential we ensure current and future generations are aware of, and embrace our heritage. Through strong leadership and advocacy, the Victorian Aboriginal HEIDI VICTORIA MP Heritage Council is doing some SHADOW very significant work, especially in the areas of Aboriginal Ancestral MINISTER FOR Remains and the preservation of ABORIGINAL sacred and important objects. So AFFAIRS much has been achieved in the past 10 years, and I send the Council all my best wishes and strength for the decades ahead.”

“The Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) works closely with the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council to ensure that Published by the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council Ancestral Remains are treated in a 1 Treasury Place, East Melbourne, Victoria respectful and dignified manner. 3002 Over the past 10 years, VIFM and May 2017 VICTORIAN the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage This publication is copyright. No part may Council have developed processes INSTITUTE OF be reproduced by any process except in and effective communication FORENSIC MEDICINE accordance with provisions of the Copyright to facilitate the timely return of Act 1968 Ancestral Remains to Country. In Designed by The Designery (03) 9438 6232 addition to practical collaboration, VIFM works with the Victorian Accessibility Aboriginal Heritage Council to If you would like to receive this publication in an accessible format, such as large print provide training and disseminate or audio, please telephone 9208 3243, 1800 information to Aboriginal 555 677 (TTY), or email [email protected] communities and Traditional This document is also available in Word Owners across Victoria about the and PDF formats on the internet at http:// process of returning Ancestors and dpc.vic.gov.au/index.php/aboriginal-affairs/ protecting Ancestors on Country.” victorian-aboriginal-heritage-council MOVING FORWARD

Council’s work towards a Council and Secretariat operating more autonomously from government has gained momentum this year, with considerable work undertaken to develop a six-phase Roadmap to Autonomy. On 24 February 2017, Council and Aboriginal Victoria (AV) representatives workshopped the Roadmap to create a robust and dynamic vision for Council’s achievement of independence. Greater financial autonomy, control of its Secretariat and a more direct reporting line are all central to the success of the Roadmap’s implementation. Council and AV have agreed to work together on the implementation of the Roadmap and also committed to finalising a Joint Working Paper. The Paper will seek advice about Council’s proposed autonomous organisational structure and transitional arrangements for Phases 4 to 6. We anticipate this Joint Working Paper will be finalised in the coming month. We look forward to a significant report on achievements towards an autonomous Council in the next newsletter.