Statement of Recognition and Commitment
Council is committed to protecting Aboriginal sacred sites and special places within the landscape.
This Statement of Recognition and Commitment is offered so that reconciliation amongst all Australians will be nurtured and grow strong in the Northern Beaches Council area.
As a sign of respect, we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands and Elders past and present. We celebrate the presence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who live, work and visit this place.
We express gratitude that we share this land today and recognise the sorrow for the cost of that sharing. We hope that in the spirit of reconciliation we can move forward to a place of justice, healing and partnership as we walk gently on this land.
We commit ourselves to:
a. recognise, honour and protect local Aboriginal heritage and culture as an important part of our history and future, including protection of sites in this area which are of special cultural and spiritual significance to Aboriginal peoples
b. listen to and respect the knowledge and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and work with them for a future based on shared values and social justice
c. learn from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to build organisation and community knowledge in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage and culture to foster appreciation and celebration of the world’s oldest continuous living culture.
What is Aboriginal Heritage?
Places, objects and archaeology. There are hundreds of sites protected by Council, including middens, rock carvings, camp sites, rock shelters and art. Some Northern Beaches sites are older than the pyramids. Aboriginal history resonates in our place names. Captain Arthur Phillip named Manly Cove after the manly behaviour of the Aboriginal men he met there in 1788. The name Warringah is Aboriginal in origin.
Aboriginal Heritage Office
Council supports the Aboriginal Heritage Office which works towards the conservation of over 1000 indigenous cultural sites across Northern Sydney. It plays an important role in education and awareness of the area’s significant Aboriginal cultural heritage.
Aboriginal Education, Walks and Talks
Book a free Aboriginal heritage presentation for your school through the Aboriginal Heritage Office. There are walks and talks for the community and an opportunity to help preserve Aboriginal sites through the Volunteer program.