The Reconciliation Action Plan was a collaborative effort from the National Trust’s Aboriginal Advisory Committee (AAC) and staff to embed an acknowledgement and celebration of the long and rich history of Aboriginal cultural heritage into day-to-day activities.
Beginning with the launch by the Hon Ben Wyatt, then Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, of the breathtaking Irrungadji Women’s Art Exhibition, the National Trust has continued to implement elements of the Reconciliation Action Plan, from large projects to operational work.
We have made great efforts to increase Aboriginal involvement in how the National Trust cares for its heritage sites, leading to a number of fantastic projects, including the ‘Aboriginal Engagement and Consultation framework for Noongar Boodja’ completed by Kooyar Wongi and cultural awareness training for all volunteers. We have also ensured all signage, brochures and any ongoing information acknowledge the appropriate Aboriginal language group and Country.
An important part of reconciliation is our ongoing efforts to strengthen the relationships we’ve developed with the Traditional Custodians associated with our heritage places. We have achieved this through involving Aboriginal communities in the development of cultural and natural heritage projects, such as the truth telling approach to our new interpretation at Wonnerup House.
We’re looking forward to finalising our Reconciliation Action Plan for 2022–23 to continue and improve on what we’ve achieved over the last few years.
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