Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Register facts for kids
The Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Register (VAHR) is a very important list. It keeps track of all known Aboriginal cultural heritage places in Victoria, Australia. Think of it as a special record book. It helps protect places and items that are important to Aboriginal history and culture.
This Register was created and is managed under a law called the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006. The Office of Aboriginal Affairs Victoria looks after the VAHR. Sometimes, they let special groups called Registered Aboriginal Parties help manage parts of it.
Contents
What is the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Register?
The VAHR is a list of significant cultural sites and objects. These are places and items that show the history and traditions of Aboriginal people. They are very important for understanding the past.
Why is the Register Important?
The main goal of the VAHR is to protect Aboriginal heritage. This means keeping important places and items safe. It helps make sure these parts of history are not damaged or lost. Protecting heritage helps future generations learn about Aboriginal culture.
What Does the Register Include?
As of 2013, the VAHR listed about 35,000 different things. These included:
- Archaeological sites: These are places where people find old tools, campsites, or other signs of past human life.
- Historic Aboriginal places: These are locations that have special meaning or events connected to Aboriginal history.
- Aboriginal cultural artefacts: These are objects made by Aboriginal people long ago. They could be tools, artworks, or other items.
How the Register Started
The VAHR did not just appear overnight. It grew from an older office and law.
From the Archaeological and Aboriginal Relics Office
The first step was the Archaeological and Aboriginal Relics Office. This office was set up by a law called the Archaeological and Aboriginal Relics Preservation Act 1972. This earlier law and office were the beginnings of protecting Aboriginal heritage in Victoria. Over time, the system improved and became the VAHR we know today.
