Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation facts for kids
The Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation is an important group that represents the Bunurong (also known as Boon wurrung) people in Victoria, Australia. They are a "Registered Aboriginal Party," which means the Victorian government officially recognizes them as the main voice for their community on matters related to Aboriginal heritage. They help protect and manage the special places and stories of the Bunurong people, especially under a law called the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006.
This organization gives advice on how to look after cultural heritage and the environment. They also approve "Cultural Heritage Management Plans," which are like special plans for building projects on Bunurong land to make sure important Aboriginal sites are not harmed. Schools often ask the Bunurong Land Council for advice to make sure their lessons about Aboriginal culture are respectful and correct.
The traditional lands and waters of the Bunurong people stretch from the Werribee River in the west, all around Port Phillip Bay, the Mornington Peninsula, Western Port, and along the South Gippsland coastline all the way to Wilson's Promontory. Inland, their land follows the rivers and streams that flow into Port Phillip, Western Port, and the Bass Strait coast.
Protecting Bunurong Heritage
The Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation works hard to protect the history and culture of the Bunurong people. This includes looking after ancient sites, artifacts, and stories that have been passed down for thousands of years. They make sure that new developments respect these important places.
Working with Other Groups
In June 2021, the Bunurong Land Council and another important Aboriginal group, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, agreed on the exact boundaries of their traditional lands in greater Melbourne. This agreement was helped by the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council.
The new boundary line goes across Melbourne from west to east. Areas like the city centre, Richmond, and Hawthorn are now officially recognized as Wurundjeri land. Places like Albert Park, St Kilda, and Caulfield are on Bunurong land.
It was also agreed that Mount Cottrell, a significant place, would be managed together by both groups above a certain height (160 meters). This agreement means the Bunurong Land Council is now responsible for protecting cultural heritage in a much larger area, including any ancient objects found underground when new buildings are constructed in the city.
Who Leads the Corporation?
As of June 2021, Dan Turnbull is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation. Rob Ogden is the Cultural Heritage Manager. The organization's main office is located in Frankston.
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