In December, the Australian Heritage Council (AHC) held its final meeting for 2024. Following the meeting, the AHC visited the World and ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Heritage-listed, Budj Bim Cultural Landscape in south-west Victoria.
Budj Bim Cultural Landscape is sacred to the Gunditjmara people. Located in southwestern Victoria, Budj Bim is a Gunditjmara name for Mount Eccles, a dormant volcano.
Around 6,600 years ago, the system of channels made of volcanic rock allowed the Gunditjmara people to develop an extensive aquaculture network. The flow from nearby Lake Condah meant that kooyang (short-finned eels) could be used as a food source.
Gunditjmara knowledge and practices are enduring and continue to be passed down through their Elders. At the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape, Gunditjmara people continue to lead:
- research
- management of native plants and animals
- building and maintenance of walking tracks
- guided tours
- a schools program.
AHC members increased their understanding of the cultural significance of the area to First Nations Traditional Owners.
The AHC is the main adviser to the Australian Government on heritage matters. You can find out more through the meeting communique.
The next meeting of the AHC will be held in late March 2025.
