APPENDIX A
Aboriginal Stakeholder Statements APPENDIX A, PART 1
Comments on Draft Survey Strategy
APPENDIX A, PART 2
Comments on Draft Report
APPENDIX B
Umwelt Consultation Documents
APPENDIX B, PART 1
Notification Documents
List of Aboriginal Stakeholders which the letter: ‘Aboriginal Stakeholder Consultation: Ravensworth, Hunter Valley, NSW’ was posted to, on 9 October 2008.
1. Aboriginal Native Title Consultants; 2. Black Creek Aboriginal Corporation; 3. Cacatua Culture Consultants; 4. Culturally Aware; 5. Gidawaa Walang Cultural Heritage Consultancy ; 6. Giwiirr Consultants; 7. David French; 8. Hunter Valley Aboriginal Corporation; 9. Hunter Valley Cultural Consultants; 10. Hunter Valley Cultural Surveying; 11. Kathleen Stewart/Kinchella; 12. Lower Wonnarua Tribal Consultancy; 13. Mimagen Wajaar Pty Ltd; 14. Mingga Consultants; 15. Muswellbrook Cultural Consultants; 16. St Clair Singleton Aboriginal Corporation; 17. Ungooroo Aboriginal Corporation; 18. Ungooroo Cultural & Community Services; 19. Upper Hunter Heritage Consultants; 20. Upper Hunter Wonnarua Council; 21. Valley Culture; 22. Wanaruah Custodians; 23. Wattaka Wonnarua Cultural Consultants Services; 24. Wonn1 Contracting; 25. Wonnarua Culture Heritage; 26. Wonnarua Elders Council; 27. Wonnarua Nation Aboriginal Corporation; and 28. Yarrawalk.
2383/Aboriginal Stakeholder List_20081009 1 Our Ref: 2383/TC/JW/MR/20081009
9 October 2008
«Company_Name» «Title» «First_Name» «Last_Name» «Address_Line_1» «Address_Line_2» «City» «State» «ZIP_Code»
Dear «First_Name»
Re: Aboriginal Stakeholder Consultation: Ravensworth, Hunter Valley, NSW
Ravensworth Operations has recently commissioned Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited (Umwelt) to conduct an Aboriginal heritage assessment of an area at Ravensworth, Hunter Valley, NSW.
In compliance with the Interim Community Consultation Requirements for Applicants (Department of Environment and Conservation 2004), Ravensworth Operations is currently seeking registration of interested Aboriginal stakeholders to participate in the consultation program for the Aboriginal heritage assessment. Should your organisation have an interest in the project and upcoming Aboriginal heritage works, you are invited to register an interest with Umwelt by close of business Wednesday 29 October 2008 by fax, post or email (details below).
Contact: Meaghan Russell, Senior Archaeologist Fax: (02) 4950 5737 Post: PO Box 838 Toronto NSW 2283 Email: [email protected].
If you require any further information at this time, please do not hesitate to contact me on (02) 4950 5322 to discuss.
Yours faithfully
Meaghan Russell Senior Archaeologist
2383/ICCR Notification_Aboriginal Stakeholders_20081009_ltr 1 APPENDIX B, PART 2
Consultation Log Appendix B – Aboriginal Consultation Log
Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact 09-10-08 Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Letters mailed to all organisations identifying that Ravensworth Operations has Meaghan Aboriginal Land (Culture and commissioned Umwelt to conduct an Aboriginal heritage assessment of an area Russell Council Heritage Officer) at Ravensworth (Hunter Valley, NSW), and requesting that each organisation Office of the Registrar notify Umwelt of any Aboriginal stakeholders that may have an interest in the Registrar of project. Letter requests advice be provided to Umwelt by close of business Aboriginal Owners Wednesday 29 October 2008, contact details provided. NTS Corp (NSW Native Title Services) Department of Executive Director Environment and Operations Climate Change Singleton Council General Manager 09-10-08 Aboriginal Native Margaret & John Letters mailed to all Aboriginal stakeholders identifying that Ravensworth Meaghan Title Consultants Matthews Operations has commissioned Umwelt to conduct an Aboriginal heritage Russell Black Creek Tracey White assessment of an area at Ravensworth (Hunter Valley, NSW), and that Aboriginal Ravensworth Operations are seeking registration of interested Aboriginal Corporation stakeholders to participate in the consultation program for the upcoming Aboriginal heritage assessment. Organisations invited to register their interest Cacatua Culture George Sampson with Umwelt by close of business Wednesday 29 October 2008 (contact details Consultants provided). Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Note: list of Aboriginal stakeholders identified from DECC advice provided in Cultural Heritage September 2008 (for independent project) on Aboriginal stakeholders who may Consultancy have an interest in projects in the upper Hunter Valley. Stakeholders also Giwiirr Consultants Rodney Matthews identified from past registrations with Umwelt for work in the upper Hunter Valley. David French NA Hunter Valley Julie Griffiths Aboriginal Corporation Hunter Valley Christine Matthews Cultural Consultants
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 1 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Hunter Valley Pansy & Luke Cultural Surveying Hickey Kathleen NA Stewart/Kinchella Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Tribal Consultancy Mimagen Wajaar Pty The Director Ltd Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews Muswellbrook Brian Horton Cultural Consultants St Clair Singleton Rene Molineaux Aboriginal Corporation Ungooroo Aboriginal The Directors Corporation Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Community Services Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews Heritage Consultants Upper Hunter Victor Perry Wonnarua Council Valley Culture Larry Van Vliet Wanaruah Barbara Foot Custodians Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey Cultural Consultants Service Wonn1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Wonnarua Culture Joseph Griffiths Heritage Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry & Mr Council Tom Miller
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 2 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Aboriginal Corporation Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart 10-10-08 Singleton Argus Public notice published identifying that Ravensworth Operations are seeking Meaghan registration of interested Aboriginal stakeholders to participate in the consultation Russell program for an Aboriginal Heritage Assessment of an area at Ravensworth, NSW. Registrations requested by close of business on Wednesday 29 October 2008, and Umwelt contact details provided. 13-10-08 Ungooroo Aboriginal Taasha Layer Email received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Meaghan Corporation assessment at Ravensworth, and requesting project information. Meaghan Russell responds by email to confirm registration received, and to note that project information will be mailed out to all registered Aboriginal stakeholders in late October, and that a meeting with Ravensworth Operations also likely to be held in coming weeks to discuss project. 14-10-08 Cacatua Culture George Sampson Letter received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Meaghan Consultants assessment at Ravensworth, noting that CCC also interested in being involved in Russell works (ie, survey) that may be involved in the above. Aboriginal Native John Matthews Fax received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Title Consultants assessment at Ravensworth. Wonnarua Culture Joseph Griffiths Fax received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Heritage assessment at Ravensworth. 15-10-08 Hunter Valley News Public notice published identifying that Ravensworth Operations are seeking Meaghan registration of interested Aboriginal stakeholders to participate in the consultation Russell program for an Aboriginal Heritage Assessment of an area at Ravensworth, NSW. Registrations requested by close of business on Wednesday 29 October 2008, and Umwelt contact details provided. Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Letter received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Cultural Heritage assessment at Ravensworth, noting that organisation is made up of members Consultancy from various tribal boundaries including Awabakal, Wonnarua, Worimi, Biripi, Wiradjuri and Eora country. 16-10-08 Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart Email received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Meaghan assessment at Ravensworth, and noting that Yarrawalk has close ties to the Russell Hunter region and is most interested in the protection and preservation of Aboriginal culture.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 3 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact 17-10-08 Wonn1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Fax received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Meaghan assessment at Ravensworth. Noted that Mr Fletcher is a local Aboriginal man of Russell Gringai-Wonnarua descent who has a vested interest in work in the area. Fax includes rates for provision of services. Hunter Valley Natural David French Fax received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage & Cultural resources assessment at Ravensworth. Management 20-10-08 Hunter Valley Elaine Freihaut Phone call to seek advice on registration, as Corporation without Chairperson at Meaghan Aboriginal moment. Meaghan advises that only need to fax/mail/email statement Russell Corporation registering an interest in the project, and that further information on project (and future meetings/survey) will be provided in coming weeks. Elaine notes that correspondence should be directed to The Secretary until further notice. Officer of the Kylie McLeod Letter received advising that the subject lands may have Registered Aboriginal Registrar (Project Officer) Owners pursuant to Division 3 of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983. Department of Graeme Moss Letter received advising Umwelt of known Aboriginal stakeholders that may have Environment and an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage assessment at Ravensworth. Climate Change No additional Aboriginal stakeholders identified. Hunter Valley Barry Stair Fax received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Aboriginal assessment at Ravensworth Corporation 21-10-08 Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Text message received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal Meaghan heritage assessment at Ravensworth Russell Ungooroo Cultural Rhonda Ward Letter received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage and Community assessment at Ravensworth Services Wattaka Cultural Des Hickey Fax received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Consultants Services assessment at Ravensworth 27-10-08 Giwiirr Consultants Rodney Matthews Fax received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Meaghan assessment at Ravensworth Russell Black Creek Tracey White Fax to all stakeholders, providing a reminder that closing date for Aboriginal Aboriginal stakeholder registrations of interest in the upcoming Ravensworth Aboriginal Corporation heritage assessment is this Wednesday, 29 October 2008. Hunter Valley Christine Matthews Cultural Consultants
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 4 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Hunter Valley Pansy & Luke Cultural Surveying Hickey Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Tribal Consultancy Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews Muswellbrook Brian Horton Cultural Consultants St Clair Singleton Rene Molineaux Aboriginal Corporation Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews Heritage Consultants Upper Hunter Victor Perry Wonnarua Council Valley Culture Larry Van Vliet Wanaruah Barbara Foot Custodians Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry & Mr Council Tom Miller Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Aboriginal Corporation Kathleen NA Letter mailed (express) to both stakeholders, providing a reminder that closing Stewart/Kinchella date for Aboriginal stakeholder registrations of interest in the upcoming Mimagen Wajaar Pty The Director Ravensworth Aboriginal heritage assessment is this Wednesday, 29 October Ltd 2008. Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry Rhoda rang Umwelt to discuss project with Meaghan, who was out of the office Kathy Down Council on fieldwork. Message left. 28-10-08 Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry Meaghan returned phone call in morning – no answer. Meaghan called again in Meaghan Council afternoon – Rhoda does not believe that WEC will register an interest (members Russell too old to go out on survey, and no one available to attend meetings). Meaghan encourages to register an interest if would like to receive reports and be aware of project outcomes – Rhoda states that reports do not benefit WEC, will probably
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 5 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact not register an interest. Does note that Upper Hunter Wonnarua Council will register an interest by tomorrow. Also requests that Meaghan faxes through contact details for Ravensworth Operations manager. Black Creek Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is Aboriginal tomorrow. Tracey White not available. Meaghan left message with office Corporation representative, Tracey will be provided message tomorrow morning. Hunter Valley Christine Matthews Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is Cultural Consultants tomorrow. No answer on home phone, mobile phone disconnected. Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is Cultural Surveying tomorrow. No answer on mobile, message left. Luke returned phone call – would like to register an interest – will fax or email tonight. Appreciates phone call letting him know. Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is Tribal Consultancy tomorrow. No answer on mobile phone. Unable to leave message on home phone (child answers). Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is tomorrow. No answer on home or mobile. Muswellbrook Brian Horton Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is Cultural Consultants tomorrow. Mobile switched off. St Clair Singleton Rene Molineaux Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is Aboriginal tomorrow. Not interested in being involved, but would like to get a copy of the Corporation final report. Lots of members have own groups and will be involved in the survey. Meaghan notes that is registered for the project, but provide copy of final report. Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is Heritage Consultants tomorrow. No answer on mobile, return number left on service. Valley Culture James Baker Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is tomorrow. James answers, advises that Larry is on honeymoon for a week. James will try to get message through so can register an interest, knows that Larry would want to be involved. Wanaruah Barbara Foot Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is Custodians tomorrow. Barb will speak with David this afternoon about the project, will call back tomorrow to advise if will register an interest.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 6 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is Aboriginal tomorrow. Laurie advises that WNAC correspondence should be directed to Corporation Sandra Miller, he no longer involved. Email address provided. Wonnarua Nation Sandra Miller Email to Sandra identifying that end date for registration is tomorrow, as per Aboriginal letter from early October. Contact details provided for Umwelt. Note that Corporation received read receipt for email on 29-10-08. 29-10-08 Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Fax received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Meaghan Cultural Surveying assessment at Ravensworth Russell Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Fax received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Aboriginal Land assessment at Ravensworth. Fax notes that the LALC will provide a cultural Council fieldworker and will comment on the draft report when made available. Black Creek Tracey White / Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is today. Aboriginal Megan Hartley No answer on office or mobile numbers. Megan returned call in afternoon – has Corporation spoken with Tracey, and advises that Ravensworth is north of their area of interest, so BCAC will not register an interest in the project. Hunter Valley Christine Matthews Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is today. Cultural Consultants No answer on home phone, mobile disconnected. Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is today. Tribal Consultancy Barry will send through a fax soon, Meaghan notes that he has verbally registered an interest. Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is today. Meaghan rang Tim Adams mobile and spoke to Cliff while working at Mangoola – would like to register an interest, will fax something through tonight. Meaghan notes verbal registration. Muswellbrook Brian Horton Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is today. Cultural Consultants No answer on mobile, message left.
Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews Meaghan rang to provide verbal reminder that end date for registrations is today. Heritage Consultants Meaghan rang Tim Adams mobile and spoke to Darrel while working at Mangoola – Darrel would like to register an interest, will fax something through tonight. Meaghan notes verbal registration. Meaghan also notes that cannot contact Christine – requests that Darrel pass on message tonight (which he will do).
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 7 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry Fax received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Council & Upper assessment at Ravensworth, for both WEC and UHWC. Fax notes that two Hunter Wonnarua people are required to represent both businesses. Fax arrived following phone Council call with Rhoda, when she advised that two people needed as one representing each organisation. Also noted that only one invoice would be provided for works (on UHWC letterhead) for both WEC and UHWC. Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews Fax received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage assessment at Ravensworth. Hunter Valley Christine Archbold Fax received registering an interest in the high wall project at Camberwell. Cultural Consultants 30-10-08 Hunter Valley Christine Archbold Meaghan rang to advise that have no upcoming project at Camberwell – was Meaghan Cultural Consultants registration meant for Ravensworth (and if do, will need written registration for Russell that project). No answer on mobile. Email address provided no longer functional. Fax sent in morning. Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Laurie rang to discuss project – Sandra had contacted him as she was not Aboriginal involved in cultural heritage work. Laurie requested that Meaghan email him Corporation (contact provided) about the project. Email sent in morning. Email then received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage assessment at Ravensworth. 31-10-08 Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews Fax received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Meaghan Heritage Consultants assessment at Ravensworth Russell 03-11-08 Hunter Valley Christine Archbold Fax received registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Meaghan Cultural Consultants assessment at Ravensworth Russell 04-11-08 Kathleen Stewart/Kinchella Letter mailed to advise that although formal date for registration has passed, all Meaghan Mimagen Wajaar Pty Ltd interested Aboriginal stakeholders still encouraged to register with Umwelt. Russell Contact details provided. Muswellbrook Brian Horton Fax to advise that although formal date for registration has passed, all interested Cultural Consultants Aboriginal stakeholders still encouraged to register with Umwelt. Contact details Valley Culture Larry Van Vliet provided. Wanaruah Barbara Foot Custodians 05-11-08 Wanaruah Donna Sampson Donna rang Umwelt on behalf of WC, who will register an interest in the Meaghan Custodians Ravensworth project this afternoon in writing. Donna noted that if Barb unwell, Russell can leave messages with George & Donna Sampson (CCC).
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 8 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry Rhoda rang Umwelt as heard that work was coming up for the project. Meaghan Council noted that have meeting next Wednesday (fax invitation to arrive this afternoon), provided details. Aboriginal Native Margaret & John Fax to all registered Aboriginal stakeholders inviting all to attend an Aboriginal Meaghan Title Consultants Matthews stakeholder meeting at Ravensworth on Wed 12 November 2008 (10am-12pm). Russell Black Creek Tracey White Fax notes that aim of the meeting is for Ravensworth Operations to provide Aboriginal information about the project, to discuss the upcoming Aboriginal heritage Corporation assessment with Umwelt archaeologists, and to provide opportunity for Aboriginal stakeholders to identify key cultural issues relating to the Cacatua Culture George Sampson Ravensworth area that should be addressed by the upcoming survey and Consultants assessment. Fax notes that Department of Environment and Climate Change Culturally Aware Tracey Skene representatives have also been invited to attend. Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Cultural Heritage For those Aboriginal stakeholders without a fax, invitations provided by express Consultancy mail or email. Giwiirr Consultants Rodney Matthews Hunter Valley Natural David French and Cultural Resources Management Hunter Valley Julie Griffiths Aboriginal Corporation Hunter Valley Christine Matthews Cultural Consultants Hunter Valley Pansy & Luke Cultural Surveying Hickey Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Tribal Consultancy Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews St Clair Singleton Rene Molineaux Aboriginal Corporation
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 9 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Ungooroo Aboriginal The Directors Corporation Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Community Services Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews Heritage Consultants Upper Hunter Victor Perry Wonnarua Council Wanaruah Barbara Foot Custodians Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Aboriginal Land Council Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey Cultural Consultants Service Wonn1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Wonnarua Culture Joseph Griffiths Heritage Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry & Mr Council Tom Miller Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Aboriginal Corporation Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart 05-11-08 Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth RSVP for meeting received. Suzie to attend. Meaghan Aboriginal Land Russell Council 06-11-08 Wanaruah Barbara Foot Fax received by Umwelt registering an interest in the upcoming Aboriginal Meaghan Custodians heritage assessment at Ravensworth. Fax notes that organisation in interested Russell in being involved in any works, and has all insurances needed. Giwiirr Consultants Michele Stair RSVP for meeting received. Michele to attend.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 10 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact 07-11-08 Cacatua Culture George Sampson RSVP for meeting received. Donna Sampson to attend. Meaghan Consultants Russell 10-11-08 Upper Hunter Rhoda Perry RSVP for meeting received. Rhoda and Kath to attend. Meaghan Wonnarua Council Russell Wonnarua Culture Joseph Griffiths RSVP for meeting received. Gordon Griffiths to attend. Heritage Hunter Valley Natural David French RSVP for meeting received. David to attend. and Cultural Resources Management 11-11-08 Aboriginal Native Margaret & John Meaghan rang to provide reminder that Ravensworth meeting is tomorrow, as no Meaghan Title Consultants Matthews RSVP received. No answer, return number left. Russell Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Meaghan rang to provide reminder that Ravensworth meeting is tomorrow, as no RSVP received. No answer, return number left. Hunter Valley Julie Griffiths Meaghan rang to provide reminder that Ravensworth meeting is tomorrow, as no Aboriginal RSVP received. Corporation Hunter Valley Christine Matthews Meaghan rang to provide reminder that Ravensworth meeting is tomorrow, as no Cultural Consultants RSVP received. No answer. Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Meaghan rang to provide reminder that Ravensworth meeting is tomorrow, as no Cultural Surveying RSVP received. Message left. Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Meaghan rang to provide reminder that Ravensworth meeting is tomorrow, as no Tribal Consultancy RSVP received. No answer, return number left. Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews Meaghan rang to provide reminder that Ravensworth meeting is tomorrow, as no RSVP received. Mobile disconnected. Ungooroo Aboriginal The Directors Meaghan rang to provide reminder that Ravensworth meeting is tomorrow, as no Corporation RSVP received. No answer on office number. Dahlene to attend. Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Meaghan rang to provide reminder that Ravensworth meeting is tomorrow, as no Community Services RSVP received. No answer. Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews Meaghan rang to provide reminder that Ravensworth meeting is tomorrow, as no Heritage Consultants RSVP received. No answer. Wanaruah Barbara Foot Meaghan rang to provide reminder that Ravensworth meeting is tomorrow, as no Custodians RSVP received. No answer.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 11 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey Meaghan rang to provide reminder that Ravensworth meeting is tomorrow, as no Cultural Consultants RSVP received. Message left on mobile. Des returned call – unable to attend Service (pls send apologies) but may be able to send representative tomorrow, will see. Requests information to be mailed out after meeting, to be kept up to date.
Wonn1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Meaghan rang to provide reminder that Ravensworth meeting is tomorrow, as no RSVP received. No answer. Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Meaghan rang to provide reminder that Ravensworth meeting is tomorrow, as no Aboriginal RSVP received. No answer. Corporation 12-11-08 Aboriginal Native Rodney Matthews Aboriginal stakeholder meeting at Ravensworth Operations to discuss upcoming Meaghan Title Consultants project and Aboriginal heritage assessment. Russell & Cacatua Culture Donna Sampson Julian Travaglia & Consultants Refer to attached meeting notes. Tim Crosdale Giwiirr Consultants Michele Stair Upper Hunter Rhoda Perry RavOps attendees: Ben Seaborn, Andrew Wright, Sarah Caruana. Wonnarua Council Wonnarua Elders Kath Miller & Val Council Woods Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Aboriginal Land Council 13-11-08 Valley Culture Larry Van Vliet Larry rang Umwelt regarding Ravensworth project – was on honeymoon so only Meaghan just received letter, James also told him that someone rang but had forgotten the Russell details. Meaghan provided summary of Narama Extended – first stage of larger project next year – and to mail out project information survey strategy. Also noted that RavOps wanting to include all registrants in survey, so sure that VC would have chance to be directly involved in fieldwork in December. Meaghan requested that Larry provide a registration in writing for the file.
24-11-08 Valley Culture Larry Van Vliet Written registration of interest received in the Ravensworth EA project. Meaghan Russell
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 12 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact 07-01-09 Aboriginal Native Margaret & John Notification faxed or emailed or mailed to all Aboriginal stakeholders notifying of Meaghan Title Consultants Matthews meeting at Ravensworth office on Thursday 22 January to discuss Ravensworth Russell / Cacatua Culture George Sampson EA and Narama Extended projects. Noted that DECC representatives invited, Kathy Down Consultants and that PPE for a site inspection is necessary. RSVP attached and requested to be returned to Umwelt by 16 January. Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Cultural Heritage Consultancy Giwiirr Consultants Rodney Matthews Hunter Valley Julie Griffiths Aboriginal Corporation Hunter Valley Christine Matthews Cultural Consultants Hunter Valley Pansy & Luke Cultural Surveying Hickey Hunter Valley Natural David French and Cultural Resources Management Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Tribal Consultancy Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews Ungooroo Aboriginal The Directors Corporation Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Community Services Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews Heritage Consultants Upper Hunter Victor Perry Wonnarua Council Valley Culture Larry Van Vliet
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 13 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Wanaruah Barbara Foot Custodians Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Aboriginal Land Council Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey Cultural Consultants Service Wonn1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Wonnarua Culture Joseph Griffiths Heritage Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry & Mr Council Tom Miller Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Aboriginal Corporation Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart 07-01-09 Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey RSVP for meeting received: Des to attend. Meaghan Cultural Consultants Russell Service Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry RSVP for meeting received: Marie Waugh to attend. Aboriginal Corporation 08-01-09 Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth RSVP for meeting received: Suzie to attend. Meaghan Aboriginal Land Russell Council Aboriginal Native Margaret & John RSVP for meeting received: Margaret or John to attend. Title Consultants Matthews
Cacatua Culture George Sampson RSVP for meeting received: George to attend. Consultants Culturally Aware Tracey Skene RSVP for meeting received: Tracey to attend.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 14 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Phone call to Umwelt as heard meeting has been scheduled, but out of office Cultural Heritage (unable to fax RSVP). Meaghan took verbal RSVP for meeting, noted that PPE Consultancy needed. Giwiirr Consultants Rodney Matthews RSVP for meeting received: Michele Stair to attend. Hunter Valley Christine Matthews RSVP for meeting received: Colleen Stair to attend. Cultural Consultants Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews RSVP for meeting received: Cliff to attend. Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward RSVP for meeting received: Rhonda to attend. Community Services Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews RSVP for meeting received: Darrel to attend. Heritage Consultants 09-01-09 Hunter Valley Barry Stair RSVP for meeting received: Barry to attend. Meaghan Aboriginal Russell Corporation 15-01-09 Ungooroo Aboriginal Taasha Layer RSVP for meeting received: Allen Paget and Dahlene Hall to attend. Meaghan Corporation Russell 16-01-09 Wonnarua Culture Joseph Griffiths RSVP for meeting received: Gordon and Joseph to attend. Meaghan Heritage Russell 20-01-09 Muswellbrook Brian Horton Brian rang Umwelt to register an interest in Ravensworth project – heard that Meaghan Cultural Consultants work would be happening soon. Meaghan noted earlier attempts to contact Russell Brian (letter/fax/phone), and summarised status of project. Brian advised of meeting on 22/02/09 – welcome to attend. Written registration of interest for project needed – Brian to provide asap. 21-01-09 Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart Phone call to Umwelt to verbally RSVP for meeting – Barry French to attend. Meaghan Russell Bullen Bullen Lloyd Matthews/ Margaret rang Umwelt to advise that Lloyd Matthews (Bullen Bullen) has been Julian Heritage Consultants Margaret Matthews registered with DECC and would like to be involved in Ravensworth project. Travaglia Julian advised that Lloyd will need to fax through a registration of interest for our records and to provide contact details. Also noted would be welcome to attend meeting this week and can discuss project then. 22-01-09 Muswellbrook Brian Horton Written registration of interest received. Meaghan Cultural Consultants Russell
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 15 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact 22-01-09 Wonn 1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Aboriginal stakeholder meeting at Ravensworth Operations to discuss upcoming Meaghan Hunter Valley Barry Stair project and Aboriginal heritage assessment. Russell & Aboriginal Julian Travaglia Corporation Refer to attached meeting notes. Hunter Valley Colleen Stair Cultural Consultants RavOps attendees: Ben Seaborn, Andrew Wright, Sarah Caruana Giwiirr Consultants Michele Stair Aboriginal Native Margaret Matthews Title Consultants Bullen Bullen John Matthews Upper Hunter Tony Matthews Heritage Consultants Cacatua Cultural George Sampson Consultants Muswellbrook Justin Matthews Cultural Consultants Minnga Consultants Clifford Matthews Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Ungooroo Cultural Rhonda Ward and Community Services Inc Wonnarua Nation Maree Waugh Aboriginal Corporation Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Aboriginal Land Council Wonnaruah Elders Matt Wells Council Ungooroo Aboriginal Allen Paget Corporation
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 16 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Hunter Valley Natural David French and Cultural Resources Management Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey CC Services Hunter Valley Irene Hickey Cultural Surveying Upper Hunter Rhoda Perry Wonnarua Council 22-01-09 Bullen Bullen Lloyd Matthews Written registration of interest received. Meaghan Heritage Consultants Russell 22-01-09 Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Separate discussion after group meeting to discuss AHILA application for Rav Meaghan Aboriginal Land EA project. WLALC happy to endorse application but has comments on Russell Council language of licence itself (provided to MR in writing) – key comment, use of ‘relevant Aboriginal community organisations’ throughout instead of WLALC. Meaghan commits to passing comments onto DECC – further discussion may be needed. 23-01-09 Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Rhonda rang to get invoicing details – Julian provided phone number for Ben Julian Community Services Seaborn (Rav Ops). Travaglia Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews Cliff rang about meeting payment – Meaghan noted that invoices go to Rav Ops, Meaghan contact details on paperwork mailed out. Russell 27-01-09 Bullen Bullen Lloyd Matthews Meaghan rang to discuss project – Lloyd not available today, Meaghan advised Meaghan Heritage Consultants to call back tomorrow. Russell Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Kathleen rang Ben Seaborn to register an interest in the project. Meaghan then Meaghan Services Kinchella rang Kathleen to discuss project and get contact details, as Kathleen had not Russell received letters from October/November 2008 identifying project and inviting registration of interest. Meaghan also requested that Kathleen provide a registration in writing to Umwelt. 28-01-09 Bullen Bullen Lloyd Matthews Meaghan rang to discuss project – discussed status of both Rav EA and Narama Meaghan Heritage Consultants Extended works, and timing of reports/fieldwork etc. Lloyd stated that would like Russell to be involved in survey, and will have insurances by March. Meaghan advised that RavOps will be dealing with engagement matters – information to be mailed by Ben Seaborn. Meaghan also noted Bullen Bullen mail address.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 17 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact 05-02-09 Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Kathy rang Umwelt to check whether mail out occurred as has not yet received Meaghan Services Kinchella any mail – also to note that would like to be involved in any upcoming work. Russell Meaghan noted that Rav EA survey strategy to be mailed out shortly, will arrive next week. 09-02-09 Aboriginal Native John & Margaret Draft survey strategy mailed to all stakeholders, with written comments on Meaghan Title Consultants Matthews survey strategy requested by cob 04-03-09. Information mailed included: Russell Bullen Bullen Lloyd Mathews project description and project mapping, as provided by Ravensworth Heritage Consultants Operations; Cacatua Culture George Sampson survey context, with a summary of key information about the assessment Consultants area (i.e. past survey and assessment, known sites within area, modified Culturally Aware Tracey Skene land, current understanding of site distribution); Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey aims and objectives of the upcoming survey; Cultural Heritage proposed survey coverage, being targeted inspections of key sites, and Consultancy linear survey transects to sample remaining areas; and Giwiirr Consultants Rodney Matthews proposed survey and recording methods. Hunter Valley Barry Stair A map of proposed survey coverage was attached to the draft survey strategy, Aboriginal with additional (large, aerial and topographic) maps supplied, in the scenario that Corporation Aboriginal stakeholders would like to map additional areas for inclusion in the Hunter Valley Christine Matthews survey. Letter also notes that Umwelt archaeologists will be available in the Cultural Consultants review period to discuss the upcoming project and draft survey strategy with all stakeholders. Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Cultural Surveying A copy of Umwelt powerpoint presentation on heritage assessment process/key issues, from meeting on 22 January, also mailed (as requested in the meeting). Hunter Valley Natural David French and Cultural Resources Management Lower Hunter Lea-Ann Ball Wonnarua Council Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Tribal Consultancy Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews Muswellbrook Brian Horton Cultural Consultants
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 18 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Ungooroo Aboriginal The Directors Corporation Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Community Services Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews Heritage Consultants Upper Hunter Victor Perry Wonnarua Council Valley Culture Larry Van Vliet Wanaruah Barbara Foot Custodians Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Aboriginal Land Council Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey Cultural Consultants Services Wonn 1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Wonnarua Culture Gordon Griffiths Heritage Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry Council Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Aboriginal Corporation Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Services Kinchella
11-02-09 Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Written registration of interest received. Meaghan Services Kinchella Russell
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 19 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact 16/02/09 All registered Aboriginal stakeholders Multiple phone calls to stakeholders throughout the week regarding the draft Rav Meaghan to EA survey strategy, specifically whether stakeholders would like to meet with Russell 20/02/09 Meaghan Russell next week (25-27/02/09) to discuss project and proposed survey. Aboriginal Native John & Margaret Meeting organised for 25/02/09. Margaret advised that Lloyd will be in town and Title Consultants Matthews can attend meeting. Inviting other relevant stakeholders (GC, HVCC, MC, Bullen Bullen c/o Margaret UHHC) also discussed – Meaghan to call and advise of time/place. Meaghan Heritage Consultants Mathews also requested that message be passed on in case unable to contact all stakeholders. Cacatua Culture George Sampson Meeting organised for 27/02/09. Consultants Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Potential meeting discussed – Meaghan to call back next week Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Meeting organised for 26/02/09. Cultural Heritage Consultancy Giwiirr Consultants Rodney Matthews Meeting organised for 25/02/09 – joint meeting with John and Margaret. Hunter Valley Barry Stair Messages left at HVAC office – no response. Aboriginal Corporation Hunter Valley Christine Matthews No answer on mobile or home phone. Cultural Consultants Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Meeting organised for 26/02/09 – Meaghan to call back on day before to Cultural Surveying organise meeting place as Luke not yet sure of movements. Hunter Valley Natural David French No answer on mobile. Email sent advising that available to meet next week to and Cultural discuss survey strategy. Resources Management Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Meeting organised for 27/02/09. Tribal Consultancy Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews No answer on home or mobile phone. Muswellbrook Brian Horton No answer on mobile – message left. Cultural Consultants Ungooroo Aboriginal The Directors Meeting organised for 26/02/09. Corporation
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 20 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Meeting organised for 26/02/09. Community Services Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews No answer on mobile – message left. Heritage Consultants Valley Culture Larry Van Vliet No answer on mobile – message left. Wanaruah c/o Donna Barb not well – Donna to discuss project with Barb, who can call Meaghan if she Custodians Sampson is feeling well enough. Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Meeting organised for 25/02/09 – to meet at WLALC. Aboriginal Land Council Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey Des not available next week as booked for survey – Meaghan suggested Cultural Consultants meeting late afternoon – Des not available. Services Wonn 1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher No answer on mobile. Wonnarua Culture Gordon Griffiths Messages left – hoping to meet with Gordon on 27/02/09 to discuss survey Heritage strategy. Will call back next week. Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry Meeting organised for 26/02/09. Council / Upper Hunter Wonnarua Council Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry No answer on mobile – message left. Aboriginal Corporation Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart No answer on mobile – message left. Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Meeting organised for 25/02/09. Services Kinchella 25-02-09 Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Meeting to discuss draft survey strategy mailed on 9 February, Noel Downes Meaghan Aboriginal Land also present for final part of discussion. Project discussed in general terms – Russell Council reviewed maps to identify footprint of proposed project. Discussed key issues – quality of existing site data, large area, many sites expected. Suzie stressed that all key sites/areas needed to be inspected by all Aboriginal stakeholders as people needed to decide on management – questioned the roster system that RavOps intended on using. Meaghan suggested that could hold inspection days at regular intervals to inspect key sites/areas as group, i.e. Nard 17 grinding
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 21 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact groove, surface infrastructure site etc. Inspections would also allow regular updates on how survey is tracking. Meaghan advised that Umwelt expected that additional transects would be added by Aboriginal stakeholders – would WLALC like to map areas for inclusion? Suzie to review maps and provide written comment, could map areas, but also flexibility needed – should be able to make some decisions in field. Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews Meaghan met Darrel at WLALC office in morning, reminded that meeting at John Meaghan Heritage Consultants and Margaret’s this afternoon, Darrel plans on attending. Russell Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Meeting to discuss draft survey strategy mailed on 9 February. Meeting Meaghan Services Kinchella focussed on project update as Kathy only recently registered an interest – also Russell discussed known sites within project area, their distribution, size, contents (artefact types etc). Kathy will look through the survey strategy – will provide comment soon.
Aboriginal Native John & Margaret Meeting to discuss draft survey strategy mailed on 9 February. Other Meaghan Title Consultants Matthews stakeholders planned to be present not available. Discussed project and key Russell elements of survey strategy. John stated that survey coverage map looks alright, but also discussed adding extra areas in the field. Meaghan provided large map to review – could mark up areas to survey – but John states would like to decide out there. Meaghan also discussed regular inspection/meeting days so that critical areas and sites could be inspected by all stakeholders – John and Margaret support idea.
Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Meaghan rang to confirm meeting place tomorrow, no answer - message left. Meaghan Cultural Surveying Russell 26-02-09 Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Meaghan rang again to advise that at café in Singleton – no answer, message Meaghan Cultural Surveying left. At end day, left another message advising that could also meet tomorrow if Russell available.
Ungooroo Aboriginal Allen Paget Meeting to discuss draft survey strategy mailed on 9 February. Discussed key Corporation issues influencing survey strategy and thoughts on coverage – that Umwelt expect additional survey coverage to be decided by Aboriginal stakeholders, feedback to date focussed on being able to choose extra survey areas during survey. Mapping left for UAC to mark up if desired.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 22 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Meeting to discuss draft survey strategy mailed on 9 February. Discussed key Community Services issues influencing survey strategy and thoughts on coverage – that Umwelt expect additional survey coverage to be decided by Aboriginal stakeholders, feedback to date focussed on being able to choose extra survey areas during survey. Mapping left for UAC to mark up if desired. Rhonda stated that survey coverage looked okay, but would read through the survey strategy and provide comment soon. Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Meeting to discuss draft survey strategy mailed on 9 February – key issues Cultural Heritage discussed, survey strategy mapping reviewed. Meaghan discussed results of Consultancy consultation so far – emphasis on selecting extra survey in the field, and group inspection/meeting days to inspect key sites/areas as a group. Meetings also provide opportunity to discuss management in the field. Annie supportive of approach, to provide written comment soon. Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Written comment on draft survey strategy provided. In summary: agreement Cultural Heritage with the draft survey strategy after a meeting with Meaghan Russell on 26/02/09 Consultancy and reading the draft survey strategy with maps of proposed survey coverage. Upper Hunter Victor Perry / Meeting to discuss draft survey strategy mailed on 9 February. Discussed Wonnarua Council / Rhoda Perry upcoming Ravensworth EA project – Rhoda and Victor focussed on broader Wonnarua Elders community outcomes, i.e. employment and training for Aboriginal people/youth, Council quality of environment, water management etc. Meaghan noted that information for other specialists – ecologists, water etc – could feed into the Aboriginal heritage assessment, reports could be provided. No specific comments on proposed coverage of draft survey strategy.
Wonnarua Culture Gordon Griffiths Meaghan rang, as would like to meet with Gordon tomorrow to discuss draft Heritage survey strategy. Gordon free late afternoon – Meaghan to call back tomorrow afternoon to organise time.
27-02-09 Cacatua Culture Donna & George Meeting to discuss draft survey strategy mailed on 9 February. Key issues Meaghan Consultants Sampson discussed, i.e. recording of Nard 17 needed, AHIMS site issues to be resolved, Russell many more sites expected – and survey strategy mapping reviewed. Two key issues arising from discussions so far – emphasis on selecting extra survey in the field, and group inspection/meeting days to inspect key sites/areas as a group. Donna to provide written comment soon.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 23 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Meeting to discuss draft survey strategy mailed on 9 February. Project update Tribal Consultancy provided, survey strategy mapping reviewed – Barry marked up location of confluence of 1st/2nd order of Davis Creek – to be added to survey strategy. Barry discussed importance of surveying creek lines and creek confluences. Mapping left with Barry to mark additional survey areas if desired, and also discussed some survey areas being decided by field team – allowance to be made in final survey strategy for additional hectares to be decided by team.
Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Phone call to discuss survey strategy, as not able to find suitable meeting time for both. Two main ideas resulting from consultation so far - emphasis on selecting extra survey in the field, and group inspection/meeting days to inspect key sites/areas as a group and discuss management. Gordon supports ideas, will look at draft survey strategy and provide comment. Tracey supportive of approach, would like to see this on other surveys also. Will try to get written comment in soon.
Wonnarua Culture Gordon Griffiths Meaghan rang to advise that no longer able to meet Gordon this afternoon – Heritage apologies, but have to return to office (run out of time). Discussed survey strategy over the phone, Meaghan noted that Gordon could mark up additional survey areas to provide to office – and summarised results of consultation so far – emphasis on selecting extra survey in the field, and group inspection/meeting days to inspect key sites/areas as a group and discuss management. Gordon supports ideas, will look at draft survey strategy and provide comment soon.
Hunter Valley Barry Stair Written comment on draft survey strategy provided. In summary: timeframes on Meaghan Aboriginal excavations in the methodology cannot be put down in a set number of days or Russell Corporation weeks to do the job, as no one can predict the exposure of a knapping floor or uncovering of a camp site. A provision should be put in the methodology that if, in these instances, this should happen, the work can be extended until every one is satisfied the area is clear. A temporary keeping place should be provided on site until the end of the work, and then we can have a meeting to decide a permanent keeping place.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 24 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact 02-03-09 Hunter Valley Barry Stair Following receipt of written comment, Meaghan rang Barry to discuss comment, Meaghan Aboriginal as content related more to excavation than planned survey strategy, and wanted Russell Corporation to discuss whether HVAC were happy with happy with planned survey coverage and whether any additional areas should be included. Meaghan also noted that discussions over past few days had two key outcomes (a) that would make commitment to additional survey coverage, with areas to be selected by survey team, and (b) as RavOps planned on rotational roster system, group survey/inspection days would be held to allow stakeholders to visit key sites/areas. Barry stated agreement with these.
Cacatua Culture George Sampson Written comment on draft survey strategy provided. In summary: support of the Meaghan Consultants draft objectives within the document which will achieve the best results once Russell implemented. Support for resurvey of the known site (Nard 2) and registration of the unregistered site so a true and correct history is collected. Agreement with the survey strategy, while also highlighting the opportunity for minor modifications to transects if required is just as important. Regular meetings while the fieldwork is being undertaken will keep all stakeholders informed throughout the project.
5-03-09 to Ravensworth EA archaeological survey program (refer to attendance records) 19-06-09 Umwelt personnel contact all Aboriginal stakeholders who wish to participate in survey (as engaged by Ravensworth Operations) via phone, fax and email to develop survey roster. Aboriginal stakeholders involved from date of registration (including those who registered an interest during the survey program).
11-03-09 HTO Environmental Cara & Rick Coles Written registration of interest in project received (email), as part of email Jan Wilson Management expressing interest in all Umwelt projects in Hunter Valley, and specifically Services naming the Ravensworth project.
12-03-09 HTO Environmental Rick Coles Meaghan rang Rick to discuss after received forwarded email – HTO keen to be Meaghan Management involved in Ravensworth project, including current survey program. Meaghan Russell Services noted that RavOps dealing with engagement issues, provided phone number for Rick to contact Ben Seaborn directly. Meaghan also provided summary of works conducted to date – meetings, draft survey strategy.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 25 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact 13-03-09 Lower Hunter Tom Miller Tom rang Meaghan to discuss Ravensworth project, as heard that work was Meaghan Wonnarua Council ongoing in area. Meaghan provided summary of project and works undertaken Russell to date, noting the local media advertising and registration period occurred in October last year. Tom had not noticed advertising then, but would like to be involved in project and current survey work. Meaghan advised that written registrations welcome (contact details provided), and noted that RavOps dealing with all engagement issues for survey program – but that RavOps aiming to include all Aboriginal stakeholders from their time of registration, so involvement in survey likely. Tom advised that written registration would be provided soon. 16-03-09 Lower Hunter Tom Miller Tom rang Meaghan as had not heard about survey days. Meaghan advised that Meaghan Wonnarua Council no written registration yet received – needed to start process, and to forward to Russell RavOps for involvement in survey. Contact details for Ben Seaborn also provided. 17-03-09 Lower Hunter Lea-Ann Ball Written registration of interest in project received (email). Meaghan Wonnarua Council Russell 20-03-09 Aboriginal Native Margaret Matthews Aboriginal stakeholder inspection/survey day. Update of survey progress and Meaghan Title Consultants results provided, and inspections of proposed dam location near Hunter River Russell, Bullen Bullen Lloyd Matthews and planned surface infrastructure site – survey of both areas by group. Julian Heritage Consultants Travaglia Bullen Bullen Karen Matthews Heritage Consultants Cacatua Cultural Shannon Griffiths Consultants Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Gidawaa Walang Annie Hickey Giwiir Consultants Michele Stair HTO Environmental Cara Coles Management Services Hunter Valley Barry Stair Aboriginal Corporation Hunter Valley Colleen Stair Cultural Consultants
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 26 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Cultural Services Mingga Consultants Justin Matthews Muswellbrook Tony Matthews Cultural Consultants Upper Hunter John Matthews Heritage Consultants Ungooroo Aboriginal Allen Paget Corporation Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Community Services Valley Culture Clifford McGrady Wanaruah Local Katrina Cavanagh Aboriginal Land Council? Wattaka Wonnarua Joshua Hickey Cultural Consultants Services Wonn 1 Consulting Joshua Griffiths Wonnarua Culture Gordon Matthews Heritage
Wonnarua Culture Sharyn Laker Heritage Wonnarua Nation Maree Ward Aboriginal Corporation
Yarrawalk Barry French Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Services Kinchella
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 27 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact 25-06-09 Aboriginal Native Margaret Matthews Aboriginal stakeholder inspection/survey days. Update of survey progress and Meaghan and Title Consultants results provided, and inspections of key sites including Nard 17, CK8, Bowman’s Russell, Creek engraving site, potential scarred tree locations and artefact scatters with Amanda 26-06-09 Bullen Bullen Karen Matthews Heritage Consultants testing/salvage potential along Emu Creek. Preliminary discussion of Reynolds management options for sites/areas throughout both days, with formal meeting Cacatua Culture Donna Sampson/ on 26-06-09 to talk through outcomes of both days. Consultants Gordon Griffiths Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Arborist (Danny Draper) and geologist (Luc Daigle) (consultants) present on the Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey day to discuss grinding grooves and potential scarred trees. Cultural Heritage Consultancy Giwiirr Consultants Michelle Stair HTO Environmental Paulette Ryan Management Services Hunter Valley Colleen Stair Cultural Consultants Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Cultural Surveying Mingga Consultants Justin Matthews Muswellbrook Donna Matthews Cultural Consultants Ungooroo Aboriginal Dahlene Hall Corporation Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Community Services Upper Hunter John Matthews Heritage Consultants Upper Hunter Georgina Berry Wonnarua Council Valley Culture Tony Matthews Wanaruah Sharyn Laker Custodians
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 28 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Wanaruah Local Bruce Tunks Aboriginal Land Council Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey Cultural Consultants Services Wonn 1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Wonnarua Culture Shannon Griffiths Heritage Wonnarua Nation Maree Waugh Aboriginal Corporation Yarrawalk Wayne French Yinarr Culture Gordon Swan Services 29-07-09 Cacatua Culture George Sampson Aboriginal stakeholder inspection and meeting day. Nard 17 detailed recording Meaghan Consultants completed, and inspection of Farrells Creek artefact management area and site Russell, Culturally Aware Tracey Skene CK8 (registered grinding groove site). Julian Travaglia Giwiirr Consultants Rodney Matthews HTO Environmental Cara & Rick Coles Meeting to discuss management strategies for project, spanning: Management conservation: offset strategy, protective fencing and signage, annual Services inspection, ongoing scarred tree management; Hunter Valley Luke Hickey impact mitigation: surface collection, subsurface testing, salvage, care Cultural Surveying agreement; and Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews other: cultural heritage awareness training, Aboriginal stakeholder Muswellbrook Brian Horton involvement in artefact recording/analysis, work permit procedures. Cultural Consultants Refer to meeting notes. Ungooroo Aboriginal The Directors Corporation Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Community Services Upper Hunter Victor Perry Wonnarua Council
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 29 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey Cultural Consultants Services Wonn 1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Services Kinchella 14-10-09 Aboriginal Native John & Margaret Draft Aboriginal Heritage and Archaeological Assessment: Ravensworth Title Consultants Matthews Operations Project report mailed to all registered Aboriginal stakeholders. Cover Bullen Bullen Lloyd Mathews letter states that the review period will end on 7 November 2009, and comments Heritage Consultants should be provided to Umwelt in writing. Cover letter also requests that Aboriginal stakeholders comment on the following to provide an Aboriginal Cacatua Culture George Sampson cultural perspective on significance and appropriate management outcomes Consultants within the report: Culturally Aware Tracey Skene the cultural significance of newly recorded sites within the project area; Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey the cultural significance of sites/landforms that would be impacted by the Cultural Heritage proposed project; and Consultancy culturally appropriate management options for sites and artefacts, and Giwiirr Consultants Rodney Matthews comment on the management recommendations of the draft report. HTO Environmental Cara & Rick Coles The cover letter notes that Umwelt archaeologists are available to meet with Management Aboriginal stakeholders during the review period to discuss the draft report, in Services recognition of its size and complexity – and will be contacting Aboriginal Hunter Valley Barry Stair stakeholders shortly to organise meetings. Aboriginal Corporation The cover letter also acknowledges that only Aboriginal people can provide the Hunter Valley Christine Matthews Aboriginal cultural heritage perspective on the significance of the Aboriginal sites Cultural Consultants and landforms in the project area and that only Aboriginal people can assess if Hunter Valley Luke Hickey the management options or the offsets proposed are appropriate from an Cultural Surveying Aboriginal cultural heritage perspective. The cover letter indicated that as a Hunter Valley Natural David French registered Aboriginal stakeholder for the Project the report has been forwarded and Cultural to their group so that they had the opportunity to provide the Aboriginal cultural Resources heritage information that will assist with balancing the two perspectives within the Management report.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 30 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Lower Hunter Lea-Ann Ball The following sections of the report were highlighted as areas that required Wonnarua Council feedback from the Aboriginal stakeholders involved in the project: Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Tribal Consultancy Section 9.1 (feedback on the Aboriginal cultural heritage significance of the Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews newly recorded sites in the project area); Muswellbrook Brian Horton Cultural Consultants Section 10.2 (feedback on the Aboriginal cultural heritage significance of the Ungooroo Aboriginal The Directors sites/landforms that are within areas proposed for impact by the project); Corporation Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Section 10.6 (feedback on the Aboriginal cultural heritage significance of the Community Services sites/landforms that are within the project area but outside areas proposed for Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews impact by the project); Heritage Consultants Upper Hunter Victor Perry Section 11 (feedback on options for site and artefact management and a Wonnarua Council request for Aboriginal stakeholder feedback on the most appropriate options); Valley Culture Larry Van Vliet and Wanaruah Barbara Foot Custodians Section 12 (feedback on management recommendations for Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth sites/artefact/landforms). Aboriginal Land Council Stakeholders were also encourages to provide comment on the appropriateness Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey of Appendices J (ACHMP) and K (Research Design and Methodology) from an Cultural Consultants Aboriginal cultural perspective. Services Wonn 1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Wonnarua Culture Gordon Griffiths Heritage Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry Council Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Aboriginal Corporation
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 31 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Services Kinchella 16-10-09 HTO Environmental Cara Coles Receipt for delivery of draft report. Management Services Hunter Valley Christine Matthews Receipt for delivery of draft report. Cultural Consultants Muswellbrook Brian Horton Receipt for delivery of draft report. Cultural Consultants Larry Van Vliet Valley Culture Receipt for delivery of draft report. Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Receipt for delivery of draft report. Aboriginal Corporation Wonnarua Culture Joseph Griffiths Receipt for delivery of draft report. Heritage 19-10-09 Aboriginal Native Margaret Matthews Receipt for delivery of draft report. Title Consultants Cacatua Culture George Sampson Receipt for delivery of draft report. Consultants Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Receipt for delivery of draft report. Giwiirr Consultants Rodney Matthews Receipt for delivery of draft report. 20-10-09 Wanaruah Barbara Foot Receipt for delivery of draft report. Custodians Aboriginal Native Margaret Matthews Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week. Margaret Meaghan Title Consultants requests that Meaghan calls back on Tuesday 27-10-09, as might be free on Russell Thursday or Friday. Margaret also mentions that report is too big – would like more time to read than normal. Cacatua Culture Donna Sampson Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week. Donna and Consultants George available on 30/10/09 – happy to come into Umwelt office – 9.30 am. Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – no answer on mobile. Meaghan emailed with information about possible meeting early next week with WNAC and UCCS (if considered appropriate).
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 32 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – no answer Cultural Heritage on office or mobile, unable to leave messages. Consultancy HTO Environmental Cara Coles Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – with HTO Management and HVCS. Cara available on Tuesday morning, would like to meet to discuss Services report (comments that is very big). Meaghan mentions will keep trying to call Luke, but if Cara speaks to him first to check whether is also free on Tuesday morning. Meaghan to call back on Monday to organise place to meet. Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – no answer, Cultural Surveying not able to leave message on mobile. Hunter Valley Natural David French Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – mobile and Cultural disconnected. Meaghan emailed short message regarding meeting, with Resources invitation to call and organise day/time if interested. Management Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – mobile Community Services disconnected, no answer on landline, no able to leave message. Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week. Suzie Aboriginal Land advised that (a) has received report – is enormous and will take time to read and Council prepare comment/input – will be requesting additional review time from Umwelt/RavOps, (b) would prefer to meet with Umwelt after has had time to review report – following 7 November, and (c) does not believe that the full 21 day period has been provided – end date is Saturday 7, but only received report on Monday. Suzie also noted that her plans on faxing Jan on the above, to provide in writing to Umwelt and Rav Ops. Fax received 20 October 2009 following phone call, stating (refer to Appendix A): WLALC believe the timeframe for review/comment is unreasonable; meetings held in week starting 26 Oct are being held too soon – not sufficient time to read and review report before discussing document with Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited requested that meetings held in November, suggests week starting 2 November; and requests that review period close on 14 November, which will provide the full 21 day review period, and sufficient time to provide comment given the size and complexity of the report.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 33 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – no answer, Cultural Consultants left message on mobile with return number and invitation to call to organise Services day/time for meeting to discuss draft report.
Wonn 1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week. Arthur not available to meet until 9 Nov due to other project commitments – Meaghan will pass message onto Jan as will be out of town herself in Nov. Arthur also noted that stakeholders not given 21 days to review report – only received on Monday, but comment requested by 7 November. Arthur also suggested that a group meeting to discuss project would be good – will be meeting for another project on Thursday this week and will raise issue then – will let Meaghan know if people would like another meeting at Rav office. Arthur also asked Meaghan to send him an email summarising the conversation, which she did following the phone call.
Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – is available to meet on Thursday morning, 9am. BM will call Barry French to see if is available, as was involved in fieldwork and attended meetings. Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week. Would like to Services Kinchella meet up next week to talk about project (noting that is first archaeological report she has reviewed and commented on) – organised to meet 9.30 am on Wed 28/10/09.
21-10-09 Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Receipt for delivery of draft report. Community Services Bullen Bullen Lloyd Mathews Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – number no Meaghan Heritage Consultants longer connected. Russell
Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week. Would prefer Cultural Heritage to meet at/near end of review period as would like time to read report first. Consultancy Giwiirr Consultants Rodney Matthews Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – no answer on home or mobile number, message left on mobile inviting Rodney to call Umwelt office to organise meeting.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 34 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Hunter Valley Elaine Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week. Elaine Aboriginal advised that Barry Stair no longer working for HVAC – Barry French will probably Corporation review report and make comment on behalf of HVAC. Meaghan offers to also meet with HVAC office staff to bring up to speed on project if needed – Elaine notes that will not be at office much longer (retired, only there while others are on sick leave) – and should just speak with Barry French. Hunter Valley Christine Matthews Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – mentioned Cultural Consultants that Margaret and John may be free Thursday or Friday, could possibly organise to meet then with Matthew’s family members if would like. Christine notes that would prefer group meeting, cannot see point of having individual meetings – Meaghan noted that RavOps have not planned on group meeting, but Christine could obviously talk to other stakeholders about how she and others would prefer to discuss project – Meaghan will call back on Tuesday to discuss further. Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week –- no answer, Cultural Surveying unable to leave message. Lower Hunter Lea-Ann Ball Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week –- answer on Wonnarua Council home phone or mobile, message left on mobile inviting Lea-Ann to call office to organise meeting time. Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – no answer, Tribal Consultancy unable to leave message. Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – no answer, message left on mobile inviting Cliff to call office to organise day/time if would like to meet. Muswellbrook Brian Horton Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – no answer, Cultural Consultants left return number on mobile phone. Ungooroo Aboriginal Alan Paget / Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – Alan and Corporation Darhlene Hall Darhlene not in office, neither answering mobile phones. Message left with office. Darhlene returned call – able to meet on Wednesday afternoon next week, but will speak to Alan to confirm that he too is available as both have been involved in project to date. Will call Meaghan to advise. Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – no answer, Heritage Consultants return number left on mobile service.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 35 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Valley Culture Larry Van Vliet Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – no answer, message left on home number and mobile inviting Larry to call office to organise day/time if would like to meet. Larry returned call – is not personally available to meet as has full time work, but will call back if others in organisation are able to meet to discuss report. Asked whether there would be a group meeting – Meaghan advised that was not planned, but that other stakeholders had raised issue, and could be discussing project amongst selves. Wanaruah David Foot Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – David would Custodians like to meet, organised 2 pm Monday 26-10. Wonnarua Culture Gordon Griffiths Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week – would like Heritage Meaghan to call back on Friday to go through main topics of draft report, and whether Gordon would like to organise meeting to discuss in person. Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry Meaghan rang to discuss possible draft report meeting next week. Rhoda made Council / Upper the following comments during the phone call: Hunter Wonnarua report large – not enough time allowed for Aboriginal stakeholders to read it, Council when Umwelt had 8 months to put it together – Elders unhappy; not right to have individual meetings – divides Aboriginal stakeholders, community in the Hunter Valley already divided; general comment about list of stakeholders with a registered interested – is not right that people can register out of country, DECCW guidelines wrong, Ravensworth Operations and Umwelt should not be working with all stakeholders, only those recognised as TO’s within an area; Aboriginal community of Hunter Valley do not get anything out of these projects – only fieldwork for assessment, but projects are not creating a future for Aboriginal people, no jobs/training; and would like to talk to Ravensworth again about training and employment outcomes. Meaghan noted that much of the above should be directed to DECCW or Ravensworth Operations – Umwelt report focused on management of sites/land within the project area – opportunity while report is draft to provide input to that, ensure that management outcomes are culturally appropriate – if would like to discuss these issues, can meet with Meaghan and Julian independently – not trying to divide community, not wanting people to provide comment – only want
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 36 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact to talk through key issues/management in report as recognise is large and complex document. Rhoda will talk to Victor and call Meaghan back – meeting may be a good idea, will let Umwelt know. Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Meaghan rang – no answer, unable to leave message. Aboriginal Corporation
Yarrawalk Barry French Meaghan rang – no answer, left message on mobile about Yarrawalk meeting Thursday next week– hoping that Barry is able to attend as was involved in fieldwork and meetings. Return number left. Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Meaghan rang as has not been able to contact David French directly – could Services Kinchella Kathy let him know that will be in town next week for meetings if interested. Also noted that David could attend Wednesday morning meeting with Kathy – she will pass on message. 22-10-09 Hunter Valley The Secretary Receipt for delivery of draft report. Aboriginal Corporation Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Fax sent to all stakeholders as not been able to contact directly to date – fax Meaghan Hunter Valley Luke Hickey noting that Umwelt able to meet with Aboriginal stakeholders during the review Russell Cultural Surveying period to discuss the content of the draft Rav EA report, and provides contact details if would like to organise day/time/venue. Lower Hunter Lea-Ann Ball Wonnarua Council Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Tribal Consultancy Muswellbrook Brian Horton Cultural Consultants Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Community Services Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Aboriginal Corporation 23-10-09 Bullen Bullen Lloyd Mathews Receipt for delivery of draft report. Heritage Consultants
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 37 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Wonnarua Culture Gordon Griffiths Meaghan rang as promised to discuss project, and whether Gordon would like to Meaghan Heritage meet in person to discuss project/report content. Meeting organised for Russell Thursday 29 Oct (pm).
Muswellbrook Brian Horton Meaghan rang – no answer, left return number on mobile. Cultural Consultants 26-10-09 Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews Receipt for delivery of draft report. Wanaruah Barbara Foot Meeting with Barb to discuss Ravensworth EA draft report – David Foot also Meaghan Custodians scheduled to attend but not present. Barb not familiar with project as David has Russell had attended meetings/fieldwork to date, so Meaghan provided overview of proposed Ravensworth project, heritage assessment work conducted to date and key recommendations in draft report. Meaghan also summarised RavOps commitments made as part of conservation offset. Meaghan advised that she would call on Friday afternoon to discuss the project further – will speak to Rav Ops about possible site inspection requested by Barb. Barb advised that she will also talk to David about project and that they will try to read report soon.
Meaghan also noted past conversations with Margaret Matthews regarding Barb’s possible knowledge of sites of frontier violence in the Ravensworth area – Barb again states that would have to go to site and visit the area.
Note: Barbara provided with a set of plates to accompany the draft report – photos of all newly recorded REA sites. Short meeting only held (60mins) due to Barb’s health. Meaghan advised that could discuss issues further with David/Barb at later date if necessary.
HTO Environmental Cara Coles Phone call to confirm meeting place tomorrow morning – no answer, message Meaghan Management left. Cara advised that not able to attend meeting in morning due to personal Russell Services commitment (school meeting required). Cara also advises that will call Des, as could be able to join afternoon meeting with WWCCS. Cara also suggests meeting with other stakeholders such as UCCS – Meaghan notes has not been able to get hold of Rhonda Ward, Cara states that Rhonda has new phone number, but cannot provide as is not on her.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 38 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact 27-10-09 Cacatua Culture George Sampson Fax to all stakeholders advising that review period of the draft Aboriginal Meaghan Consultants Heritage and Archaeological Assessment: Ravensworth Operations Project Russell HTO Environmental Cara & Rick Coles report has been extended to Tuesday 17 November 2009 – based on Aboriginal Management stakeholder feedback to Ravensworth Operations about size and complexity of Services the draft report. Ungooroo Aboriginal The Directors Corporation Wanaruah Barbara and David Custodians Foot Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey Cultural Consultants Services Wonnarua Culture Gordon Griffiths Heritage Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Services Kinchella Aboriginal Native John & Margaret Fax to all stakeholders advising that review period of the draft Aboriginal Title Consultants Matthews Heritage and Archaeological Assessment: Ravensworth Operations Project Bullen Bullen Lloyd Mathews report has been extended to Tuesday 17 November 2009 – with an additional Heritage Consultants ten days of review provided in response to Aboriginal stakeholder comments on the size and complexity of the document. Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Cultural Heritage The fax also states that Umwelt archaeologists are available to meet with Consultancy Aboriginal stakeholders during the review period to discuss the draft report, and provides contact details for all to contact Umwelt to organise a suitable day/time. Giwiirr Consultants Rodney Matthews Hunter Valley Barry Stair Aboriginal Corporation Hunter Valley Christine Matthews Cultural Consultants Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Cultural Surveying
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 39 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Hunter Valley Natural David French and Cultural Resources Management Lower Hunter Lea-Ann Ball Wonnarua Council Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Tribal Consultancy Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews Muswellbrook Brian Horton Cultural Consultants Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Community Services Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews Heritage Consultants Upper Hunter Victor Perry Wonnarua Council Valley Culture Larry Van Vliet Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Aboriginal Land Council Wonn 1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry Council Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Aboriginal Corporation 27-10-09 Wattaka Wonnarua Irene Hickey Meaghan rings to confirm 2 pm meeting, and advises that Ben Seaborn also to Meaghan Cultural Consultants attend – no answer, details left as message. Number left if need to contact Russell Services Meaghan before 2 pm to discuss. Irene returned call, confirmed 2 pm meeting. Wattaka Wonnarua Des & Irene Hickey Meeting with Des and Irene to discuss Ravensworth EA draft report. Ben Meaghan Cultural Consultants provided overview of project infrastructure in response to questions, and Russell Services Meaghan provided summary of all known sites/issues within the project area, Ben Seaborn
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 40 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact and key management recommendations. Ben discussed Rav Ops commitments (RavOps) as part of conservation offset. Note: Des and Irene provided with a set of plates to accompany the draft report – photos of all newly recorded REA sites. HTO (Cara Coles) had planned on attending meeting but could not – Des offered to provide a copy of plates to Cara. Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Kathy rang Meaghan to cancel tomorrow’s meeting – has medical appointment Meaghan Services Kinchella that cannot be moved. Is available on Thursday but Meaghan is not. Kathy Russell could also be free on Friday – Meaghan to call back as tentatively has people booked for Friday.
Aboriginal Native Margaret Matthews Meaghan rang Margaret as planned to discuss possible meeting this week Title Consultants (Thursday or Friday). Margaret advised that is not available for the next three weeks. Meaghan noted that will mail Margaret some information on the project (site photos), and that the review period had been extended by ten days.
Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Meaghan rang to organise possible meeting to discuss Ravensworth EA draft Cultural Surveying report – no answer, unable to leave message. Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Meaghan rang to organise possible meeting to discuss Ravensworth EA draft report – phone switched off, unable to leave message. Lower Hunter Lea-Ann Ball Meaghan rang to organise possible meeting to discuss Ravensworth EA draft Wonnarua Council report – Lea-Ann advises that Tom Miller is now contact person for LHWC and that Meaghan will need to speak to him about the project and any meetings. Tom’s mobile number provided. Meaghan also asks whether Tom has report as mailed to Lea-Ann – Lea-Ann confirms that she has document, and will pass onto Tom. Tom Miller Meaghan rang to organise possible meeting to discuss Ravensworth EA draft report – Tom in another meeting, asks that calls back later. Meaghan advises that will call back tomorrow morning (as 6pm already). Muswellbrook Brian Horton Meaghan rang to organise possible meeting to discuss Ravensworth EA draft Cultural Consultants report – mobile disconnected. Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Meaghan rang to organise possible meeting to discuss Ravensworth EA draft Aboriginal report – no answer, unable to leave message. Corporation
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 41 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact 28-10-09 Ungooroo Aboriginal Alan Paget / Meeting with Alan, Dahlene and Taasha to discuss Ravensworth EA draft report. Meaghan Corporation Dahlene Hall / Meaghan provided summary of all known sites/issues within the project area, Russell Taasha Layer and key management recommendations. Ben discussed RavOps commitments Ben Seaborn as part of conservation offset. (RavOps) Note: UAC provided with a set of plates to accompany the draft report – photos of all newly recorded REA sites. Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart Meaghan rang to postpone meeting, as needed to return to Newcastle tomorrow Meaghan for unexpected but urgent meeting. Organised for Jan Wilson to meet with Barry Russell on 05-11-09. Wonnarua Culture Gordon Griffiths Meaghan rang to postpone meeting, as needed to return to Newcastle tomorrow Heritage for unexpected but urgent meeting. Organised to meet on 02-11-09. During conversation, Gordon commented on the need to discuss community outcomes such as training and employment with Ravensworth Operations – outcomes for both cultural heritage (land, sites) and community. Hunter Valley Barry French Barry rang office to advise that is the new chairperson for the corporation, and Julian Aboriginal that he has read the draft report and is happy to go along with its Travaglia Corporation recommendations. Julian advised that Meaghan currently in Hunter Valley to meet with people to discuss the report – takes mobile number and says will pass it onto Meaghan, and they can discuss the project in more detail in person. Meaghan rang to organise possible meeting to discuss Ravensworth EA draft Meaghan report – no answer, unable to leave message. Russell
Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Meaghan rang to organise possible meeting to discuss Ravensworth EA draft Tribal Consultancy report – Barry will look through report tomorrow and call Meaghan to discuss day/time to meet – possibly Friday afternoon this week.
Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Meaghan rang to discuss possible meeting date next week with Jan Wilson. Cultural Heritage Annie requests that Jan calls early next week as she is unsure of schedule at the Consultancy moment.
Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Rhonda rang and left message on Meaghan’s mobile – leaving her new mobile Community Services number for return contact. Meaghan rang back to organise possible meeting to discuss draft report – no answer, message left on mobile.
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 42 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact 30-10-09 Cacatua Culture George & Donna Meeting with George and Donna to discuss Ravensworth EA draft report. Meaghan Consultants Sampson Meaghan provided summary of all known sites/issues within the project area, Russell and key management recommendations. Ben discussed Rav Ops commitments as part of conservation offset.
Note: George and Donna provided with a set of plates to accompany the draft report – photos of all newly recorded REA sites. 30-10-09 Wanaruah Barbara Foot Meaghan rang as requested to discuss possible site inspection at Ravensworth Meaghan Custodians – no answer, message left with phone number inviting Barb to call and organise Russell an appropriate day for site visit. 02-11-09 Wonnarua Culture Gordon Griffiths Meeting with Gordon to discuss Ravensworth EA draft report. Meaghan Meaghan Heritage provided summary of all known sites/issues within the project area, and key Russell management recommendations. Ben discussed RavOps commitments as part Ben Seaborn of conservation offset. (RavOps)
Note: Gordon provided with a set of plates to accompany the draft report – photos of all newly recorded REA sites. Hunter Valley Barry French Meeting with Barry to discuss Ravensworth EA draft report. Meaghan provided Aboriginal summary of all known sites/issues within the project area, and key management Corporation recommendations. Ben discussed RavOps commitments as part of conservation offset.
Note: Barry provided with a set of plates to accompany the draft report – photos of all newly recorded REA sites. Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Meaghan rang to discuss possible meeting – organised to meet on 06-11-09 I Meaghan Community Services morning. Rhonda also advised that Tracey Skene has new phone number, and Russell will call her to see if available on Friday morning to meet also. Meaghan also noted that would like to get in touch with Maree, as has not been able to contact WNAC directly to date – Rhonda also to call Maree. Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Meaghan rang to discuss possible meeting – no answer, phone message left. Services Kinchella Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Meaghan rang to discuss possible meeting – Annie would prefer to attend group Cultural Heritage meeting only at end of review period, as has not yet finished reading the report. Consultancy
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 43 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Meaghan rang to discuss possible meeting – Suzie not at work due to personal Aboriginal Land event, will be back in office Wednesday afternoon – requested that Meaghan call Council back then to discuss. Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Meaghan rang to organise possible meeting to discuss Ravensworth EA draft Cultural Surveying report – no answer, unable to leave message. Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart Meaghan rang to discuss planned meeting on Thursday – no answer. 02-11-09 Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Letter to Jan Wilson provided by email, which requested a meeting with Jan Wilson Aboriginal Ravensworth Operations to discuss WNAC concerns about establishing Corporation appropriate protocols for Aboriginal stakeholder engagement, specifically the time allowed to review the draft Umwelt report. The letter also states: That asking WNAC to respond to the report within five weeks only is disrespectful to Aboriginal stakeholders, as well as a lack of respect from the developer and the NSW government. Questions how long it took Umwelt to prepare the document, and states that WNAC have serious concerns about how archaeologists record and discuss Aboriginal cultural objects. That the developer (Xstrata) consulted with WNAC and others in November 2007 about the development of an Aboriginal Community Engagement Strategy, but the WNAC has had no response back from the developer who is now consulting for approval of a new mine extension. That WNAC should be properly resourced by the developer to provide an accurate report on the draft Umwelt report provided, and requests this from Ravensworth Operations. Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Jan emailed in response to the WNAC letter received, advising that the letter and Jan Wilson Aboriginal request for a meeting will be provided to Ravensworth Operations today. The Corporation email also states that: the timeframe for review relates to the mine’s requirement to lodge with the Department of Planning, and has not been set by Umwelt; that the draft report is so large due to the large number of Aboriginal archaeological sites within the project area, and this information is needed to inform decisions about how to manage all sites; that Aboriginal stakeholders alone can provide input on the cultural significance of the project area and sites contained within, and that WNAC is encouraged to provide comment; and
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 44 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact that Ravensworth Operations and Umwelt have been trying to organise a meeting with WNAC to discuss the project, and WNAC is encouraged to meet with both representatives about the project, and to provide comment on the draft report before submission to DoP. Hunter Valley Natural David French Draft report returned to Umwelt office, as was not claimed from post office. and Cultural Resources Management 04-11-09 Hunter Valley Natural David French Meaghan emailed David to advise that the draft report had been returned to Meaghan and Cultural Umwelt, and to ask whether Umwelt should mail it to his home address again or Russell Resources another address. Email noted that review period ends on 17 November, and Management encourages David to get in touch to organise report delivery. Aboriginal Native John & Margaret Plates to supplement draft report mailed out to all stakeholders (excluding those Title Consultants Matthews with scheduled/held meetings), illustrating all newly recorded REA sites. Cover Bullen Bullen Lloyd Mathews letter provides contact details to discuss the project with Umwelt, or to organise a Heritage Consultants meeting with Umwelt and Ravensworth Operations to discuss the project. Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Cultural Heritage Consultancy Giwiirr Consultants Rodney Matthews Hunter Valley Christine Matthews Cultural Consultants Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Cultural Surveying Hunter Valley Natural David French and Cultural Resources Management Lower Hunter Lea-Ann Ball Wonnarua Council Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Tribal Consultancy
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 45 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews Muswellbrook Brian Horton Cultural Consultants Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews Heritage Consultants Upper Hunter Victor Perry Wonnarua Council Valley Culture Larry Van Vliet Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Aboriginal Land Council Wonn 1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry Council Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Aboriginal Corporation 05-11-09 Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart Meeting with Barry to discuss Ravensworth EA draft report. Jan provided Jan Wilson summary of all known sites/issues within the project area, and key management Ben Seaborn recommendations. Ben discussed Rav Ops commitments as part of (RavOps) conservation offset.
Note: Barry provided with a set of plates to accompany the draft report – photos of all newly recorded REA sites. Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Meaghan rang to discuss possible meeting this week to discuss draft report – Meaghan Services Kinchella organised to meet on 6-11-09. Russell
06-11-09 Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Meeting with Rhonda to discuss Ravensworth EA draft report. Meaghan Meaghan Community Services provided summary of all known sites/issues within the project area, and key Russell management recommendations. Ben discussed RavOps commitments as part Ben Seaborn of conservation offset. (RavOps)
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 46 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Rhonda made the following comments on project/report made during meeting: important that decisions about management made by Wonnarua people, not by those from outside of country; and salvaged artefacts could go to Broke, but some could also be stored on site.
Note: Rhonda provided with a set of plates to accompany the draft report – photos of all newly recorded REA sites. Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Meeting with Kathy to discuss Ravensworth EA draft report. Meaghan provided Services Kinchella summary of all known sites/issues within the project area, and key management recommendations. Meaghan also summarised RavOps commitments as part of conservation offset, noting that Ben Seaborn was not available to attend meeting (apologies sent).
Note: Kathy provided with a set of plates to accompany the draft report – photos of all newly recorded REA sites. 09-11-09 Note: Ravensworth Operations sent meeting invitations to all registered Aboriginal stakeholders, to be held at Ravensworth Operations office on Monday 16 November. Aim of meeting is to discuss Ravensworth Project and draft report (results and recommendations) prior to report finalisation after review period ends on Tuesday 17 November. Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Meaghan rang to organise possible meeting this week to discuss draft Meaghan Aboriginal Land Ravensworth report – Suzie advises that away from the office until Wednesday Russell Council for personal reasons – call back later in week. 12-11-09 Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Meaghan rang to organise possible meeting this week – Suzie available Friday Meaghan Aboriginal Land at 11am, meeting organised. Russell Council 13-11-09 Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Meeting with Suzie to discuss Ravensworth EA draft report. Meaghan provided Meaghan Aboriginal Land summary of all known sites/issues within the project area, and key management Russell Council recommendations. Meaghan also summarised Rav Ops commitments as part of conservation offset, noting that Ben Seaborn was not available to attend meeting (apologies sent). 16-11-09 Aboriginal Native Margaret Matthews Aboriginal stakeholder meeting at Ravensworth Operations office to discuss Meaghan Title Consultants Ravensworth Project and draft Aboriginal Heritage and Archaeological Russell, Cacatua Culture Donna Sampson Assessment report. Julian Consultants Travaglia
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 47 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Culturally Aware Georgina Berry Refer to attached meeting notes. Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Ben Seaborn Cultural Heritage Note that a Kayaway WTO representative attended the meeting, although (RavOps) Consultancy Kayaway WTO is not a registered Aboriginal stakeholder for the Ravensworth Giwiirr Consultants Michele Stair Project. HTO Environmental Pansey Hickey Management Services Hunter Valley Gordon Swan Aboriginal Corporation Hunter Valley Colleen Stair Cultural Consultants Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Cultural Surveying Kayaway WTO Mark Hickey Mingga Consultants Cheryl Matthews Muswellbrook David Horton Cultural Consultants Ungooroo Aboriginal Allen Paget Corporation Upper Hunter John Matthews Heritage Consultants Valley Culture Barry Stair Wanaruah Local Norm Archibold Aboriginal Land Council Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey Cultural Consultants Services Wonn 1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Wonnarua Culture Shannon Griffiths Heritage
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 48 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry Council Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry & Aboriginal Maree Waugh Corporation Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Services Kinchella 18-11-09 Wonnarua Culture Gordon Griffiths Gordan rang Meaghan to discuss meeting held on Monday – agrees that issues Meaghan Heritage are important and need to be discussed with Xstrata managers, but states that Russell the meeting also needed to discuss how sites and land at Ravensworth are to be managed as Part 3A will be submitted to government soon, and Minister will make decision (approve) project without Aboriginal stakeholders being involved in management. Requests that Ben Seaborn calls him directly – would like to meet with Ben about Ravensworth project, and would also like to meet with Xstrata managers independently to discuss issues in the Hunter Valley. Meaghan advises that will pass message onto Ben Seaborn. February Aboriginal Native John & Margaret Finalised Aboriginal Heritage and Archaeological Assessment: Ravensworth Jan Wilson 2010 Title Consultants Matthews Operations Project report mailed to all registered Aboriginal stakeholders for Bullen Bullen Lloyd Mathews their records. All Aboriginal stakeholder input provided during the review period Heritage Consultants – including both letters and meeting notes – included in the final document. Cacatua Culture George Sampson Consultants Culturally Aware Tracey Skene Gidawaa Walang Ann Hickey Cultural Heritage Consultancy Giwiirr Consultants Rodney Matthews HTO Environmental Cara & Rick Coles Management Services Hunter Valley Barry Stair Aboriginal Corporation
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 49 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Hunter Valley Christine Matthews Cultural Consultants Hunter Valley Luke Hickey Cultural Surveying Hunter Valley Natural David French and Cultural Resources Management Lower Hunter Lea-Ann Ball Wonnarua Council Lower Wonnarua Barry Anderson Tribal Consultancy Mingga Consultants Clifford Matthews Muswellbrook Brian Horton Cultural Consultants Ungooroo Aboriginal The Directors Corporation Ungooroo Cultural & Rhonda Ward Community Services Upper Hunter Darrel Matthews Heritage Consultants Upper Hunter Victor Perry Wonnarua Council Valley Culture Larry Van Vliet Wanaruah Barbara Foot Custodians Wanaruah Local Suzie Worth Aboriginal Land Council Wattaka Wonnarua Des Hickey Cultural Consultants Services
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 50 Date Stakeholder Contact Summary of Consultation Umwelt Contact Wonn 1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Wonnarua Culture Gordon Griffiths Heritage Wonnarua Elders Rhoda Perry Council Wonnarua Nation Laurie Perry Aboriginal Corporation Yarrawalk Barry McTaggart Yinarr Culture Kathleen Stewart- Services Kinchella
2383/R09/AB_Consultation Log 51 APPENDIX B, PART 3
Aboriginal Stakeholder Meeting Notes
Appendix B - Ravensworth Project, Aboriginal Stakeholder Meeting 16 November 2009
Attendance List
Organisation Representative/s Aboriginal Native Title Consultants John Matthews Cacatua Culture Consultants Donna Sampson Culturally Aware Georgina Berry Gidawaa Walang Cultural Heritage Consultancy Ann Hickey Giwiirr Consultants Michele Stair HTO Environmental Management Services Pansy Hickey Hunter Valley Aboriginal Corporation Gordon Swan Hunter Valley Cultural Consultants Colleen Stair Hunter Valley Cultural Surveying Luke Hickey Kayaway WTO Mark Hickey Mingga Consultants Cheryl Matthews Muswellbrook Cultural Consultants David Horton Ravensworth Operations Ben Seaborn Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited Meaghan Russell, Julian Travaglia Ungooroo Aboriginal Corporation Allen Paget Upper Hunter Heritage Consultants Margaret Matthews Upper Hunter Wonnarua Council Rhoda Perry Valley Culture Barry Stair Wanaruah Local Aboriginal Land Council Norm Archibold Wattaka Wonnarua Cultural Consultants Services Des Hickey Wonn 1 Contracting Arthur Fletcher Wonnarua Culture Heritage Shannon Griffiths Wonnarua Elders Council Rhoda Perry Wonnarua Nation Aboriginal Corporation Laurie Perry & Maree Waugh Yinarr Culture Services Kathleen Stewart-Kinchella
Meeting Notes
Ben Seaborn: Opens meeting and thanks all for attending today. Brief induction to cover OH&S issues for meeting.
Meaghan Russell: Thanks all for attending also, and outlines meeting agenda, being – to provide brief summary of Ravensworth Project and impact assessment, then have detailed discussion of management strategy presented in draft report – talk through each component and provide opportunity for feedback from Aboriginal stakeholders. Also states that meeting notes will be taken today, and will be included in the final report.
2383/R09/AB 1 Arthur Fletcher: Requests one minute silence, which is conducted.
John Matthews: Asks why the report goes back so far? There is information from early Glen Morris work in the area?
Meaghan Russell: Responds that need go back over older work to understand known sites within the project area and where past survey happened. This was particularly important for the Ravensworth project as the AHIMS database contained so many errors, and needed to go back to the original records to understand where sites where actually located.
Ben Seaborn: Provides overview of Ravensworth Project, discussing the key elements of the proposed design, i.e., open cut, out of pit dump, office infrastructure, Lemington Road, transmission line, haul road, conveyors, dam near Hunter River etc.
Luke Hickey: Asks whether Nard 17 has been given new name and if has been entered on the AHIMS database yet.
Meaghan Russell: Yes to both – Nard was given the new name of REA86 on the site card, which has been submitted to the DECCW.
John Matthews: Asks Ben Seaborn what will happen to the old airstrip, and will it be mined?
Ben Seaborn: Responds that there are some water storage devices in the area but the airstrip will not be mined.
Kathleen Stewart- Asks Ben Seaborn whether there are project impacts along Bowmans Kinchella: Creek and the Hunter River?
Ben Seaborn: Responds that there will be no direct impacts on the southern section of Bowmans Creek and no direct impacts on the Hunter River.
Meaghan Russell: Also responds that the 330kV transmission line crosses Bowman’s Creek in several places in the northeast of the project area – but placement of towers not yet identified – still opportunity in the design process to avoid highly sensitive areas. However, terraces along Bowman’s Creek are extensive and very sensitive – so need to discuss this in the management strategy.
Luke Hickey: Referring to a map of known sites within the project area – states that the map shows that the location of the massacre site has been found.
Meaghan Russell: Responds that a massacre site was registered on the Ravensworth village by DECCW some years ago – based on a reference to a massacre site with links to Ravensworth. However, as discussed at previous meetings, the literature relating to this issue suggests that that particular episode of violence (and there was also others in the area) did not occur at Ravensworth, and instead occurred 2-3 days travel on foot from the area. We do not know the exact location of that location, but although it was not at that specific location, there is certainly a link to the Ravensworth area that needs to be recognised.
Arthur Fletcher: States that this is very important issue, and needs more research to identify where the massacre happened.
2383/R09/AB 2 Meaghan Russell: Responds that the literature on the issue does not identify the location of that specific location, but this is a broader issue for the valley about contact violence. There has also been some discussion about Aboriginal stakeholders perhaps having some knowledge of where this event may have occurred.
Margaret Matthews: States that she doesn’t think anyone knows where it is.
Luke Hickey: States that has been no research taken up on finding out more about the massacre. I believe more work should be done to examine the massacre further, and there is a carving and there are stories along the alluvial plains and this area is really important. This report is like the quickening (being rushed), we can’t dissect this report in the time allowed.
Ben Seaborn: Responds that RavOps understand it is a big report and that is why we offered extra time and one on one meetings and also why we are having this group meeting so we can meet with the people who we haven’t caught up with yet.
Luke Hickey: States that even with the extra time it is still not enough, the timeframe is beyond my means. Aboriginal stakeholders should be given the time to give the report what it deserves as it is an important area.
Ben Seaborn: Responds that after this meeting, he hopes people will be better informed and able to provide comment.
Luke Hickey: Asks why the cultural sections of the report (i.e., significance assessment) are blank. This is a major problem and happens all the time – sometimes it is blank or only one line. We don’t have due opportunity to comment. Meaghan gets paid with all the bells and whistles, but Aboriginal stakeholders don’t. The one on one meetings also concern me due to the manipulation of the scientific report. The Aboriginal point of view is different from the scientific and the manipulation of the Aboriginal people is wrong.
Ben Seaborn: States that the information is the one on one meetings is exactly the same as information presented today – that is not being manipulative.
Luke Hickey: Asks whether at the end of the day are the one on one meetings working?
Meaghan Russell: Responds that the one on one meetings were only to go through the report with Aboriginal stakeholders and were not aimed to getting individual comment – considered necessary due to its size (which almost everyone has commented on).
Also responds that cultural sections of the report are blank as Aboriginal stakeholder input has not yet been provided – and only Aboriginal stakeholders can complete those sections. We hope that people do provide comment on these issues in the review period, and hopefully after today, there will be a better understanding of the management needed. Also notes that the management section has been developed on the basis of past discussions with Aboriginal stakeholders in June and July (in group meetings), and today
2383/R09/AB 3 provides another opportunity to go through the management strategy in detail and identify any amendments needed.
Ben Seaborn: Continues discussion of project description – outlines how the mine will progress over time, looking at maps at work from years 5, 10, 20 and 25. Also discusses the approvals process and likely timeframe, identifying that the EA will be submitted on 23 November – next week – and if all goes to plan, likely to have an approval mid-next year.
Kathleen Stewart- Asks whether she can get a copy of the approvals timeframe (the Kinchella: slide on the screen).
Meaghan Russell: Responds that it can be printed and mailed to all.
Meaghan Russell: Presents information from the draft report on the impact assessment, as this is critical to discussing management for the project. Of the 372 archaeological sites within the project area, 173 would be directly impacted by project if approved – key messages – is a large project with large development footprint, and many sites will be affected. The impacted sites are mainly artefact scatters and isolated finds with the majority containing small numbers of artefacts, however, two of the six scarred trees known in the area would also be impacted. Emu Creek would be lost within the project area, and all sites along it (with reference to mapping).
Arthur Fletcher: (with reference to registered massacre site on maps) States that Aboriginal people were slaughtered over large areas, everywhere, not just in one location, and states that the years 1826 and 1828 are very significant. Also states that the report does not go into the cultural value of the landscape and impacts.
Meaghan Russell: Responds that there was widespread conflict throughout the contact period and that this did need to be recognised as part of the Aboriginal experience in the valley.
Des Hickey: Asks why this (with reference to cultural values) are not in the report.
Meaghan Russell: Responds that as noted before, Aboriginal stakeholders have not yet provided comment about cultural values – and only Aboriginal stakeholders can do this.
Des Hickey: States that we (Aboriginal stakeholders) were not approached to be part of the report.
Meaghan Russell: Responds that Aboriginal stakeholders have the opportunity throughout the whole assessment process to provide comment on the cultural value of the area. This stage of the assessment – draft report review – is also an important opportunity to comment on cultural values and how they should be managed.
Des Hickey: Asks how many groups have responded to the draft report (in writing).
Meaghan Russell: Responds that only one response has been received.
Des Hickey: Asks whether that will be included in the report.
2383/R09/AB 4 Meaghan Russell: States that all comments received will be included in the report.
Des Hickey: (directed to Meaghan) You want us to respond to that report, that book, that’s work, hard work, we don’t get nothing for that, you do?
Ben Seaborn: Responds that very early on in the process when we were working out the contract, Ravensworth said that we would pay a days work for the time it would take to read the report, and prepare comment that would meet certain criteria.
Rhoda Perry: States that the draft report is scientific, but we need an Aboriginal cultural heritage report. Suggests that Ravensworth put a tender out for Aboriginal people to put a cultural report within the larger report – this needs to be done. States that the Aboriginal people are not getting into the picture as they should be, and are very frustrated that sites are being destroyed. Aboriginal stakeholders are given an offset that is fenced off then it just sits there for 21 years. Aboriginal people are not in the picture, there is no Aboriginal perspective into anything except comments in the assessment. At the end of the day, sites are being destroyed and our cultural heritage is going.
Ben Seaborn: Responds about the timeframe for the conservation area – is long term protection, is not sure where 21 years came from.
Short break requested by Aboriginal stakeholders.
Ben Seaborn: (continuing discussion on conservation area). Early flora/fauna assessments recognised that Davis Creek and the area to the north is highly significant, and early heritage work identified the need to protect Nard 17. In light of this the impact area was pulled back – Ravensworth committing to protect the area.
Meaghan Russell: (continuing discussion on conservation area) Noted that sites along 330kV transmission line could be avoided in future design work – currently listed as impact, but may be conserved. Also need to consider buried deposits that may be affected throughout area, for example, Bowman’s Creek terraces are considered sensitive and are likely to have buried deposits – this needs to be discussed in management also.
Luke Hickey: States that is crucial to think about the subsurface, and asks what areas have been identified as PADs?
Meaghan Russell: Responds that have had geomorphic advice on the issue – about where buried deposits may be found with some integrity – and two main areas have been identified – Bowman’s Creek terraces and Bayswater Creek floodplain. These areas are very large (refers to map) – have identified the whole area as of high archaeological potential, instead of just selecting small areas within the landform.
Luke Hickey: Asks whether those areas are mapped within the report?
Meaghan Russell: Responds that alluvial mapping identifies the landform, and report identifies these areas as of high archaeological potential.
Luke Hickey: States that the areas are huge, to locate these PAD areas is a lot of
2383/R09/AB 5 work – it could take years.
Meaghan Russell: Responds that there are recommendations for testing to better understand these landforms – but having geomorph advice is critical when doing this work, geomorphs will be part of the field team and will work with us to investigate the landforms.
Luke Hickey: Asks whether the project is Part 3A?
Meaghan Russell: Responds that it is – and the research design and methodology in the appendix of the report is therefore important as sets out the archaeological works that are recommended.
Des Hickey: States that the report does not call those areas PADs.
Rhoda Perry: States that we (Aboriginal stakeholders) can call it something else under our customs and laws.
Short break requested by Aboriginal stakeholders.
Meaghan Russell: (continuing discussion of project impacts) States that both landforms of high potential will be impacted to a degree – Bowman’s Creek by the transmission line (24%), and Bayswater Creek by haul road and coal conveyor (20%). Discusses impact to Emu Creek with reference to map – almost all of the catchment will be impacted (96%).
Des Hickey: Asks whether there are sites around Emu Creek.
Meaghan Russell: Responds with reference to map – shows that Emu Creek has a number of sites along its alignment. Notes that Emu Creek itself is fairly eroded and has less archaeological potential than other areas, and summarises geomorphic input for area. A number of sites have been put forward for excavation along Emu Creek, and it will be important that a geomorph forms part of our team as we will need advice about which areas have potential and which do not, as many sites along Emu Creek are highly eroded and are not good locations for testing. But despite this, is clear that Emu Creek has many sites along it that will be impacted and that need to be managed.
Luke Hickey: States that there has been recent work just outside of Ravensworth land where there is a major site complex system (Cheryl Kitchener and Penny McCardle are involved).
Meaghan Russell: Notes that the largest site complex in the Ravensworth area is not along Emu Creek but is Nard 17, near confluence of Davis and Bayswater Creeks. Also discusses the relative site distribution and density for all creeks within project area – Farrells Creek near the Hunter River generally has more sites and larger sites than Emu and Davis Creeks, proximity to Hunter River an issue. The two largest creeks in the area – Bayswater and Bowman’s – also have larger sites, but large deposits may also be buried in these landforms.
Continues discussion of impact assess – identifies that Nard 17 grinding grooves only a few hundred metres from open pit of project – potential blasting vibrations is a key issue and requires management plan.
2383/R09/AB 6 Ben Seaborn: Discusses blasting techniques – explaining that the way blasting is done can have different outcomes with respect to vibration. Expert advice will be obtained on this issue before any blasting due to the proximity of Nard 17.
Luke Hickey: States that the monitoring committee has given lots of comments on Nard-17, and asks whether this will be included in the report.
Meaghan Russell: Responds that advice was about access to site during archaeological survey – something to discuss today with all stakeholders is whether this access protocol should be a long term management outcome. (does not have to be in report but can be)
Luke Hickey: States that believes Nard 17 is in impact area due to distance from mine and blasting issues – this is cultural view, and should be looked at in depth.
Ben Seaborn: Responds that mining will not have a direct impact, but the potential for an indirect impact is recognised and will be managed.
Luke Hickey: States that site is already being impacted by erosion, so it will be impacted by project like it or not.
Des Hickey: States that it is in the best interest of the mine to say that the site will be impacted as this is the community interpretation, and that the community may have a different idea about impact.
Luke Hickey: States that this is a crucial issue of interpretation of scientific or cultural. The report says the site as not impacted, I disagree, it is impacted from my perspective. Everyone is here to interpret it into an Aboriginal perspective, we need to workshop the issue.
Allen Paget: Asks whether monitoring of blasting was done in the past as this information could give us a ballpark idea about blasting impacts.
Meaghan Russell: Notes that the site was not recorded until mid-1990s, so early blasting would not have been measured. Is not aware of any more recent monitoring of the site.
Ben Seaborn: Notes that will look into the issue for any past monitoring.
Laurie Perry: Asks when he will get a response from Ravensworth Operations to the letter he sent on behalf of the WNAC. Also asks whether other Aboriginal stakeholders have seen the WNAC letter? (all answer no). Laurie then reads the two page letter for all to hear.
Ben Seaborn: Responds that Ravensworth Operations held a meeting with WNAC to respond to the letter last week – not sure what other response is needed.
Also states that the reason for today’s meeting is to talk about the Ravensworth project and to get Aboriginal stakeholder input on management outcomes. The WNAC raises broader social issues, which are fair concerns. Xstrata has attempted in the past to address these issues and recognises that this process has not continued.
2383/R09/AB 7 Norm Archibald: States that Xstrata have come up short in the past and nothing has been done to fix it.
Laurie Perry: States that the bottom line is that cultural heritage will be destroyed no matter what. It is not the fault of the developers, we (Aboriginal people) are not even in the Act. The NSW Government only recognises the artefacts and they will make billions of dollars. The only people getting anything out of this country at the moment is are mining companies and Umwelt archaeologists. States that we (Aboriginal stakeholders) don’t have the power to stop the mine.
Ben Seaborn: Today’s discussion is about the management for the Ravensworth project, your comments are about different issues. We are here talking and we want your feedback about the Ravensworth project.
Laurie Perry: (with reference to the RNOA). States that the offset area is already there, that was surveyed 20 years ago, and in 20 years from now they will dig it up again. You (to other Aboriginal stakeholders) can negotiate now for what you want.
Ben Seaborn: Responds that Ravensworth Operations are making a commitment to the long term conservation of the offset area, and would like to discuss involvement of the community over time. Putting artefacts in the area and fencing it off is the bare minimum, Ravensworth Operations would like to see more Aboriginal involvement.
Rhoda Perry: States that we want better outcomes for our people.
Laurie Perry: States that we (Aboriginal people) are not in the Act. The government will destroy our cultural heritage. We are not even recognised, they only recognise the artefacts. You are going to put all the cultural heritage onto a hill and fence it. Then a cultural centre, who’s going to run it? How does it make money? We are not just going to target Xstrata. 35% of Aboriginal kids end up in jail and we make up only 2% of the population. What you are negotiating now is only just a bit of money. You should be using common law rights to get better outcomes for your community
Luke Hickey: (addressed to Laurie Perry) Asks for Laurie to give us a way forward.
Laurie Perry: States that there is a way, negotiate what you really want or you go to the NSW government.
Arthur Fletcher: (addressed to Laurie Perry) Asks when is the right time to act.
Laurie Perry: States that we should act now.
Independent Aboriginal stakeholder meeting requested and held.
Luke Hickey: (following return of RavOps and Umwelt personnel to room) Asks that Laurie Perry speaks on behalf of all stakeholders.
Laurie Perry: (with reference to written list of recommendations written on white board). The Aboriginal community have come together and propose the following:
2383/R09/AB 8 1. “Set up a structure or body to develop a culture and heritage unit in Wonnarua/Wannaruha country. 2. Traditional lore and customs under this unit to be implemented. 3. Include recommendations to DECCW under the interim guidelines from the proposed unit. 4. Response from Xstrata about Aboriginal engagement strategy across NSW. 5. Xstrata to fund the proposed culture and heritage structure to develop this protocol/terms of reference. 6. Cultural guidelines/protocols/confidentiality agreement 7. Steering committee/terms of preference.”
States that Ravensworth mine is the first to undergo this process. Our (the Aboriginal community) response back to mining and Meaghan is to say no to the destruction of our heritage. We are not against mining or Xstrata but we are angry with the NSW Government. DECCW don’t know who to consult with within the community. The guidelines are not broad enough for us to understand who to deal with. We need you to explain to us in saying no to the consent to destroy. You must respond to us in us trying to implement these proposals.
Asks Ben to outline the process from here.
Ben Seaborn: Responds with a summary of the approvals process and timeframe – that Ravensworth will be submitting EA on 23 November as planned, and feedback provided by Aboriginal stakeholders today will be part of that.
Laurie Perry: Asks whether information will go to DECCW.
Meaghan Russell: Responds that EA is submitted to DoP, but will go to DECCW as part of adequacy review.
Laurie Perry: States that we (Aboriginal stakeholders) have no issue with mining, but have an issue with the legislation. How far are Xstrata willing to go to support what we are trying to do?
Ben Seaborn: Responds that is still unclear on what Aboriginal stakeholders are proposing – requests that Laurie talk through the written recommendations.
Laurie Perry: Reads first recommendation – that Aboriginal stakeholders form a structure or body to manage culture heritage for Xstrata.
Ben Seaborn: States that Ravensworth currently have a monitoring committee, but as move forward, the role of this body can be expanded.
Laurie Perry: States that we (Aboriginal stakeholders) are not giving consent for Consent to Destroy. We are coming to you as a community, where do we sit now?
Ben Seaborn: Back to the process, the EA is submitted, if the community have issues and say they are not happy, that has to be discussed further between the community, DECCW and Xstrata. The committee is a good idea but it is not something that I can commit to today.
2383/R09/AB 9 Laurie Perry: At the end of the day it has nothing to do with this (with reference to the management committee). We have said no, we will not put any more input into the report. We are trying to work with the mine, but we must see greater benefit back to the community from mining.
Ben Seaborn: States that cannot make decision today.
Pansy Hickey: States that Ben is the message stick, needs to go back to Xstrata.
Laurie Perry: States that this is the first time an Aboriginal community have said no as a group.
Donna Sampson: Asks whether the report still go in?
Ben Seaborn: States that the EA will be submitted as planned.
Laurie Perry: Asks, from an Umwelt point of view, how many times has a whole group come together and said no to mining?
Meaghan Russell: Responds that is no aware of that exact situation.
Laurie Perry: States that Aboriginal stakeholders also have a list of questions they would like to put forward, and gives Ben Seaborn and Meaghan Russell a printed list of questions, and reads all out to the group, being:
1. How many cultural sites and objects have been destroyed since 1980 due to mining and other developments in the Upper Hunter Region? 2. Since 1980 how many Section 90 Permits have been refused by NPWS, now DECCW, for the proposed developments in the Upper Hunter Region? 3. Has a Regional Study been undertaken in the Upper Hunter Region, to establish if a representative sample of Wonnarua Culture is conserved for future generations? (cultural audit) 4. What criteria are used to assess social cultural significance apart from the Burra Charter which was set up in the 1980s to assess monuments? And do Aboriginal people in the Environment Protection Regulation Group (Northern-Coffs Harbour) assess the social cultural significance approvals with Aboriginal communities? 5. Are the relevant, appropriate Aboriginal people and community groups giving community approval for Section 90s under the NPW Act 1974? 6. Does DECCW Cultural Heritage Division know what is left of Wonnarua sites and cultural objects and cultural landscapes in the Upper Hunter Region? 7. Consider the implementation of a Regional Partnership Agreement with the NSW State Government and the Aboriginal Community. Laurie also asks that Meaghan respond to these questions.
2383/R09/AB 10 Meaghan Russell: Responds that only DECCW can answer the questions, so cannot respond.
Aboriginal stakeholders request time to type and sign letters to the DECCW and Aboriginal Affairs, and this is done during the meeting. Copies made and provided to Ravensworth Operations and Umwelt.
Laurie Perry: Asks how many sites have been destroyed? We are trying to find out why we (Aboriginal people) are not in the legislation. Rocks are in the legislation. When we do a report it is probably one page and we might say to dig or scrape. Archaeologists agree and then we dig and scrape. However, we are trying to find out how many sites have been destroyed in the Upper Hunter from mining. If Xstrata get approved they have to give $50,000 to the DoP for a heritage study. Why can’t we get a cultural audit? What criteria is used to assess our culture apart from the Burra charter?
Meaghan Russell: States that DECCW have criteria to consider scientific significance, but cultural significance is different as there is no set criteria, and that this comes from Aboriginal people only.
Laurie Perry: States that we want answers to these questions, we (all Aboriginal stakeholders present) are sick of it. The RTA is looking at an offset area at the moment (for the F3 project) and they are asking us what we want, and are not telling us what they are prepared to give. To come to the community with a report that big (the Ravensworth draft report) is a kick in the face.
Ben Seaborn: We recognise the size of the report and the process is a problem, but the offset and the management of all the sites is part of mitigating the impact of this project. We are here to consult with the Aboriginal community to get feedback on those issues.
Norm Archibald: States that under the process at the moment, things are not happening for the Aboriginal community.
Laurie Perry: States that the Aboriginal community want a response from Xstrata about the heritage unit/guidelines across NSW (referring to the Xstrata Indigenous Engagement Strategy discussed in 2007 meetings).
Ben Seaborn: (on the issue of the heritage unit proposed) Asks whether this is for Xstrata in general or specifically Ravensworth.
Luke Hickey: States that stakeholders have come together and are putting it to Xstrata to get something productive for the community in the future.
Laurie Perry: States that we (the Aboriginal community) want this list to happen (referring to the list of seven items above). We are sick of it and won’t respond to the report. Whether you are with us or against us, we need to try to get policy changed. We are not anti-mining we are anti- government.
Ben Seaborn: States that the issues raised are broader than the Ravensworth project.
2383/R09/AB 11 Laurie Perry: States that we (the Aboriginal community) want to see Xstrata management at the table. Unfortunately your mine is the first one, but there will be others. You’re here consulting with us for artefacts, but our job is to talk about opportunities in health, employment etc. These things are bad and we can’t go to the mines we have to go to the government. We look forward to seeing your CEOs. It seems that the report will be going in. Can you table that we don’t agree with consent to destroy?
Meaghan Russell: States that the letter prepared and signed during today’s meeting will be included in the final report, as will be the meeting notes taken – both clearly show that Aboriginal stakeholders present do not support sites being destroyed due to legislation and other issues.
Ben Seaborn: States that this information will be submitted to DoP with the EA, and then given to DECCW for review. The issues raised today are outside the project, but I will get the message to higher management within Xstrata and stress there is a combined opinion within the community and we will take that seriously.
Norm Archibald: Asks what would the response time be?
Ben Seaborn: Responds that some of these things are not small issues and will therefore take time to address, but he will raise the concerns with Xstrata senior management.
Luke Hickey: Asks what criteria there is for extending the mine?
Ben Seaborn: (with reference to the approvals process) States that there are a few stages, and this will include public exhibition.
Des Hickey: Asks if we planning another meeting after we receive a response?
Norm Archibald: States that we (the Aboriginal community) may need to call a meeting ourselves.
Laurie Perry: States that we have gone outside the boundaries here, we have to sort this out ourselves.
Ben Seaborn: Notes that any meeting Ravensworth Operations would call is only about the assessment, not broader issues.
Laurie Perry: (to Meaghan Russell) Asks whether Gary Davies will contact Umwelt directly?
Meaghan Russell: Responds that DECCW may ask Umwelt for additional information during the approvals process, but as the letter came from the Aboriginal stakeholders here today, would assume the response would come to you directly – again, that question should be asked of DECCW not Umwelt.
Discussion amongst Aboriginal stakeholders that the meeting is over.
Ben Seaborn: Asks whether anyone would like to stay for the remainder of the meeting, which was called to discuss the management outcomes for the Ravensworth Project.
No Aboriginal stakeholders wish to stay and discuss the Ravensworth project. Meeting ends.
2383/R09/AB 12 APPENDIX B, PART 4
Assessment Summary Ravensworth Operations DECEMBER 2009
For further information please contact: Ravensworth Operations Project ABORIGINAL HERITAGE & ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT SUMMARY Ravensworth xs ra a Operations
Ben Seaborn HSEC Manager – Ravensworth Operations Project Ravensworth Operations Pty Limited Phone: (02) 6570 0640 Umwelt Environmental Consultants
Meaghan Russell/Jan Wilson Senior Archaeologist/Manager Cultural Heritage Umwelt (Australia) Pty Ltd (02) 4950 5322 Ongoing Aboriginal Consultation To ensure continued Aboriginal stakeholder involvement in all stages of the assessment and management process, Ravensworth Operations Project commits to further consultation with all registered Aboriginal stakeholders during the EA process and during preparation of the ACHMP.
It is further noted that the Aboriginal stakeholder consultation process proposed will present an additional opportunity for Contents registered Aboriginal stakeholders to provide feedback on future project specific site/landscape management. Introduction 1 For further information please contact: Key Features of the Ravensworth Operations Project 2
Aboriginal Stakeholder Involvement 6 Managed by
Previously Recorded Sites 6 Ravensworth xs ra a Archaeological Surveys 6 Operations
Significance Assessment 6 Ben Seaborn HSEC Manager – Ravensworth Operations Project Aboriginal Cultural Significance 6 Ravensworth Operations Pty Limited Phone: (02) 6570 0640 Archaeological Significance 7 Impact Assessment 7 Umwelt Management Strategy 8 Environmental Consultants
Care of Artefacts/Scarred Trees 8 Meaghan Russell/Jan Wilson Senior Archaeologist/Manager Cultural Heritage Ongoing Aboriginal Consultation 9 Umwelt (Australia) Pty Ltd (02) 4950 5322
Ravensworth Operations Project 9 Management Strategy Introduction An Aboriginal heritage and archaeological management strategy training in stone artefact recording and basic analysis. Ravensworth Operations Pty Limited (Ravensworth Operations) is is required to mitigate the impacts of the project, in summary: a wholly owned subsidiary of Xstrata Coal Pty Limited (Xstrata SSconecone GGloucesterloucester Ravensworth Operations Project will consider any other suitable Coal). Ravensworth Operations is comprised of the existing LAKE GLENBAWN 42 sites, including REA86, are proposed for long term option put forward by the Aboriginal stakeholders. Ravensworth West and Narama mines, and is located between NEW conservation within the 262 hectare Ravensworth North Offset the townships of Singleton and Muswellbrook, in the Upper Hunter Aberdeen Ravensworth Area (RNOA). These sites will be managed under an Aboriginal Valley region of New South Wales (NSW) (refer to Figure 1). Care of Artefacts/ Operations Project Cultural Heritage Management Plan (ACHMP) prepared in consultation with Aboriginal stakeholders, an archaeologist Scarred Trees There is an extensive history of mining operations in the area, with and the DECCW; the former Ravensworth South and Ravensworth No. 2 open cut LAKE LIDDELL LAKE ST.CLAIR Two scarred trees and large numbers of stone artefacts are mines operating from the early 1970s. With current operations 156 sites are proposed for management for their protection proposed for recovery from the project area by the impact approaching their operational limit and continued demand for coal, DDungogungog mitigation works outlined above. The management strategies for HIGHWAY within the project area boundary for the 29 year life of the Ravensworth Operations is proposing an extension to its currently ENGLAND mine; all recovered archaeological materials will be included in the approved open cut mining operations. Research Design and Methodology that will be prepared for the SSingletoningleton 12 further sites may be protected for the 29 year life of the works. The Ravensworth Operations Project Area consists of an area of mine, if detailed planning of the proposed 330 kV transmission approximately 5625ha. Of this total area, approximately 2548ha ROAD HIGHWAY Feedback from the Aboriginal stakeholders regarding the care of IC line enables these sites to be avoided; (45%) consists of previously disturbed land associated with former H IF IGH C WA A scarred trees and stone artefacts recovered during the proposed and currently approved coal mining operations in the project area. Y P Maitland 150 sites, including an artefact scatter associated with a salvage program identified the following options; RRaymondaymond scarred tree, are proposed for surface collection; The Ravensworth Operations Project (the Project), will allow salvaged items to remain at Ravensworth and not be moved to PUTTY CCessnockessnock TTerraceerrace Ravensworth Operations to continue open cut mining for a further KKurriurri KKurriurri 11 sites are proposed for subsurface testing, broad area Broke, to keep close to Country; and/or 29 years. The Project will also enable Ravensworth Operations to NEW manual excavation (if warranted) and/or mechanical scrapes (if consolidate a number of existing smaller operations and integrate NEWCASTLE warranted); the salvaged artefacts and scarred trees to be transported to with other existing Xstrata operations, particularly in relation to SOUTH the proposed Broke Keeping/Teaching Place; and/or coal handling infrastructure, water and environmental SOUTH two landforms are proposed for subsurface testing, manual management systems. PACIFIC scarred trees could be mounted on concrete blocks and WALES Swansea excavation (if warranted) and/or mechanical scrapes (if OCEAN warranted); and protected within a small shelter; and/or Ravensworth Operations have sought to minimise the area of F3 disturbance associated with the project. This has included FIGURE 1 two scarred trees are proposed for removal, conservation and some artefacts to be displayed at the proposed avoidance of direct disturbance on Davis Creek and locating Location of Ravensworth Operations Project relocation in accordance with a strategy developed by an Teaching/Keeping places, and in the entry to the offices at mining operations and associated infrastructure in previously arborist and conservator, in consultation with Aboriginal Ravensworth. The rest to be placed on the ground in the RNOA disturbed areas. stakeholders, an archaeologist and the DECCW. or in a facility within the RNOA. The purpose of this report is to summarise the findings from the Ravensworth Operations Project has committed to additional In respect of the various options proposed for care of recovered Aboriginal Heritage and Archaeological Assessment (the offsets for the loss of Aboriginal cultural heritage and artefacts and scarred trees Ravensworth Operations Project assessment) undertaken as part of the Environmental Assessment archaeological sites and values that will result from the project. commits to an ongoing discussion with Aboriginal stakeholders (EA) for the Project. The assessment has been prepared by These include active management of Aboriginal archaeological and the DECCW during the preparation of the ACHMP to find an Umwelt (Australia) Pty Limited in consultation with registered sites affected by erosion, such as those within the existing option/options that are accepted as culturally appropriate Aboriginal stakeholders to identify the Aboriginal heritage and Farrells Creek 1 Aboriginal Artefact Management Area and within management outcomes. archaeological values of the project area through Aboriginal the area of the Ravensworth Underground Mine Dam stakeholder consultation, literature review and archaeological Conservation Area. Affected sites will be protected by survey, and to provide advice on the management of all Aboriginal undertaking culturally sensitive works to improve the archaeological sites and landforms within the project area. management of erosion.
Ravensworth Operations Project has also committed to offering the following for consideration by Aboriginal stakeholders:
funding for a display of artefacts salvaged from the project area, which would be established at a location such as within the Ravensworth project area or one of the Teaching/Keeping places being planned by XCN and the Wanaruah LALC;
funding to support the establishment of IT systems for the Keeping/Teaching place; A retouched mudstone flake funding to support training for Aboriginal community members for skills that would enable them to work within the Keeping/Teaching Place; and
8 ABORIGINAL HERITAGE & ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT SUMMARY Ravensworth Operations Project 1 Key Features of the Previously Recorded Sites Archaeological Significance Ravensworth Operations Project The project area has an extensive history of survey, assessment Significance assessments were undertaken for all newly and salvage. More than twenty (20) previous investigations have recorded and previously recorded sites within the proposed The Project has been designed to maximise resource extraction realignment of an existing 330 kV transmission line which been undertaken between 1979 and 2009. project impact areas. Archaeological significance is assessed efficiency whilst minimising impacts on the environment and dissects the proposed Ravensworth North open cut mining based on the: rarity; representativeness; integrity; surrounding community. area; Over 300 previously recorded Aboriginal archaeological sites connectedness; complexity; and potential for archaeological (inlcuding artefact scatters, isolated finds, grinding grooves, a deposit, for an archaeological site. Based on these criteria, it was Key features of the Project are shown on Figure 2 and include: handling and emplacement of coal tailings and coarse rejects, including emplacement in the former Cumnock open cut, stone quarry and scarred trees) were identified within the project determined that: a mine life of up to 29 years from granting of project approval; Ravensworth South and Narama voids; area. Further investigation found that 153 of these sites had already been or will be subject to salvage/destruction as part of over 90 percent of assessed sites have low archaeological extension of existing mining operations and additional open cut transport of up to 20 Mtpa product coal via RCT, the other approved projects. significance; mining and out of pit emplacement areas including: Ravensworth loop and the Main Northern Railway line; Archaeological Surveys five isolated finds and 11 scatters have low to moderate development of a multi-seam open cut mining operation use of existing conveyor systems for transport of coal to archaeological significance; within an area west of Bayswater Creek, known as the domestic power generators; An archaeological survey of the Project area was conducted over Ravensworth North Pit, which will encompass the existing a 36 day period between March 2009 and June 2009. Surveys six scatters have moderate or moderate to high archaeological realignment of Lemington Road to its original location prior to Ravensworth West open cut mine; and were conducted by teams of two archaeologists with up to six significance; mining at Narama Mine; Aboriginal stakeholders each day. the integration of the remaining operational life of the two scatters have high archaeological significance; construction of water management, supply and distribution Narama mine including the Narama Extended Project, which infrastructure, including construction of a new mine water Two-hundred and forty-four previously unknown Aboriginal is scheduled for completion during the initial stages of the four scarred trees have moderate archaeological significance; storage dam; and archaeological sites were identified within the project area. Project. These included 136 artefact scatters, 103 isolated finds, three and
scarred trees, one scarred tree (with associated artefact scatter) rehabilitation of open cut mining areas including previously associated ancillary services and infrastructure. and one set of grinding grooves (with associated scarred tree one site complex (REA122) has moderate to high mined areas such as open cut voids; The Project will generate peak employment of approximately 550 and artefact scatter). archaeological significance and one site complex (REA86) has mining of up to 16 Million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) Run-of- people during mining operations and approximately 500 during high archaeological significance. Mine (ROM) coal; construction. The majority of sites (198 of 244) contained 10 or less artefacts, with only 15 sites containing more than 50 artefacts. The largest High levels of prior disturbance from previous farming activities upgrade/expansion of the existing Ravensworth Operations The Project is identified as a Part 3A Project under State artefact scatter within the project area contained 600+ and erosion are the main reasons why a high percentage of sites mine infrastructure area and construction of new infrastructure Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) (Major Development) 2005, artefacts, and was associated with the previously recorded Nard were assessed as having low archaeological significance. including staff amenities, offices, workshop, conveyors and and requires the approval of the NSW Minister for Planning. 17 (renamed REA86) grinding groove site. The second largest coal handling stockpile areas; site (REA236) had 589 artefacts. Impact Assessment of the sites expansion and upgrade of the Ravensworth Coal Terminal within the Project Area (RCT), Ravensworth Coal Handling and Preparation Plant Significance Assessment (RCHPP) and Ravensworth Underground Mine (RUM) surface The project has the potential to directly impact 173 Aboriginal The significance of Aboriginal archaeological sites and landform archaeological sites. Of these: infrastructure; values is determined from two perspectives: Aboriginal cultural significance, which can only be assessed by Aboriginal people; 128 sites are within the proposed pit shell; and archaeological significance, which is assessed by archaeologists based on established ranking criteria. Aboriginal 12 sites are in the out of pit dump area; cultural and archaeological significance are often not related, with sites/landforms potentially having different Aboriginal 33 sites are located within areas that will be disturbed by cultural and archaeological significance/values. Aboriginal infrastructure, roads and haul routes, dams and surface cultural significance also encompasses a broad range of values, facilities. It is possible that impacts to up to 12 of these sites including contemporary social values. may be avoided when detailed designs for facilities are completed. Significance assessments were undertaken for all newly recorded sites and any previously recorded sites occurring in the Impacted sites will include 78 of the 139 known isolated finds, proposed impact areas. 93 of the 225 known artefact scatters and 2 of the 4 known scarred trees. Aboriginal Cultural Significance There is also potential for indirect impacts to occur to the Only Aboriginal people can provide the Aboriginal cultural sandstone outcrop containing the grinding grooves within the heritage perspective on the significance of the Aboriginal sites REA86 site complex. Therefore, blasts undertaken for the Project and landforms in the project area - and only Aboriginal people will be managed through a blast vibration management strategy can assess if the management options or the offsets proposed that will be developed in consultation with Aboriginal are appropriate from an Aboriginal cultural heritage perspective stakeholders to ensure the site is not damaged. based on their perceived level of impact on Aboriginal cultural ‘Scarred Tree at site REA86’. There is potential for indirect ‘Grinding Grooves at site REA86’. Site has high values. It is important that we receive Aboriginal stakeholder impacts from blasting to affect the grinding grooves found significance and will not be directly impacted. at this site. Blasts will therefore be managed under a blast The mine plan has been modified to protect this site. feedback on these matters, to consider in finalisation of Project and vibration management strategy. commitments.
2 ABORIGINAL HERITAGE & ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT SUMMARY Ravensworth Operations Project 7 Aboriginal Stakeholder Involvement The following Aboriginal stakeholders registered an interest in the in addition to participating in the survey all Aboriginal project at the start of, or during, the Aboriginal heritage and stakeholders were invited to attend a number of inspection and archaeological assessment process: meeting days held during and following the archaeological survey, on 20 March 2009, 25 and 26 June 2009 and 29 July Aboriginal Native Title Consultants; Bullen Bullen Heritage 2009. These days aimed to inspect key sites/areas within the Consultants; Cacatua Culture Consultants; Culturally Aware; project area, including archaeological sites and infrastructure Gidawaa Walang Cultural Heritage Consultancy; Giwiirr areas, also provided opportunity for discussion of management Consultants; HTO Environmental Management Services; Hunter options. During these days, Aboriginal stakeholders were also Valley Aboriginal Corporation; Hunter Valley Cultural Consultants; invited to identify additional sites/areas that required Hunter Valley Cultural Surveying; Hunter Valley Natural and inspection and to identify and discuss management options; Cultural Resources Management; Lower Hunter Wonnarua and Council; Lower Wonnarua Tribal Consultancy; Mingga Consultants; Muswellbrook Cultural Consultants; Ungooroo following distribution of the draft Aboriginal Heritage and Aboriginal Corporation; Ungooroo Cultural & Community Archaeological Assessment report in October 2009, and in Services; Upper Hunter Heritage Consultants; Upper Hunter recognition of the size and complexity of the document, Wonnarua Council; Valley Culture; Wanaruah Custodians; Umwelt offered to meet independently with all registered Wanaruah Local Aboriginal Land Council; Wattaka Wonnarua Aboriginal stakeholder groups to discuss the results and Cultural Consultants Services; Wonn1 Contracting; Wonnarua recommendations of the draft report. A Ravensworth Nation Aboriginal Corporation; Wonnarua Culture Heritage; Operations representative was also present for the majority of Wonnarua Elders Council; Yarrawalk; and Yinarr Culture Services. the meetings in order to answer any questions raised in relation to the project. The independent meetings were held All registered Aboriginal stakeholders had the opportunity to between 26 October and 13 November 2009, with only 10 of participate in all stages of the assessment process from the time 29 registered Aboriginal stakeholder groups choosing to accept of their registration. this offer; and
Meetings throughout the assessment process (group and at the request of a number of Aboriginal stakeholder groups all individual) were fundamental to the consultation strategy for the registered Aboriginal stakeholder groups were invited to attend Ravensworth EA project, and informed all stages of the process. a project meeting on 16 November 2009 at the Ravensworth A summary of Aboriginal stakeholder meetings is provided Operations office to have a group discussion in relation to the below: management strategy for the Ravensworth Project. The agenda for the meeting included an opportunity for Aboriginal all Aboriginal stakeholders were invited to attend a project stakeholders to discuss, and if they desired, to provide written meeting on 12 November 2008 at the Ravensworth Operations or verbal comment on issues such as: office. At this meeting Ravensworth Operations provided an outline of the proposed project; the cultural significance of the Ravensworth area, and any specific sites/areas within the project area all Aboriginal stakeholders were invited to attend a project meeting on 22 January 2009, at which Ravensworth the cultural significance of the newly recorded Aboriginal Operations provided detailed design information on the archaeological sites within the project area proposed project. At this meeting, Umwelt and Aboriginal stakeholders discussed key archaeological issues, and culturally appropriate management options for Aboriginal opportunity was provided for key cultural issues to be archaeological sites and areas that would be impacted by identified. The meeting also involved preliminary discussion of the proposed project; and an appropriate survey strategy for the Ravensworth EA project; the management recommendations and draft research following distribution of a draft survey strategy, Umwelt offered design and methodology presented in the draft report. to meet independently with all Aboriginal stakeholders (with a registered interest at that time) to discuss key project issues In recognition of the importance of obtaining more meaningful and the proposed survey strategy. These meetings were held feedback from the Aboriginal stakeholders on relevant aspects of between 25 and 27 February 2009 with 11 of the 27 Aboriginal the assessment report, Ravensworth Operations commits to stakeholders registered at that time; further consultation with the stakeholders during the EA assessment process. As part of the ongoing consultation process Ravensworth Operations has prepared this summary report which has been circulated to all registered Aboriginal stakeholders to assist with provision of comment.
6 ABORIGINAL HERITAGE & ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT SUMMARY Ravensworth Operations Project 3 REA86 (incorporating Nard 17) Grinding groove, scarred tree and artefact scatter site - to be conserved
RW41 Artefact scatter site intended for manual excavation as it is proposed for impact by open cut mining
REA88 Artefact scatter site intended for partial manual excavation as it is proposed for partial impact by haul road construction
REA112 Artefact scatter site intended for manual excavation as it is proposed for impact by open cut mining
View north-west over Bowmans Creek terrace - assessed as an area of high Aboriginal and archaeological significance
Key Archaeological Features of the REA222 REA236 Ravensworth Operations Project Area Artefact scatter site intended for manual excavation as it is proposed Artefact scatter site intended for manual excavation as it is proposed for impact by dam construction for impact by dam construction
4 ABORIGINAL HERITAGE & ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT SUMMARY Ravensworth Operations Project 5