The culturally significant Goodooga Tin Camp and Cemeteries site in north-west NSW has been formally declared an Aboriginal Place in recognition of its significance to the local Aboriginal community for its tin hut architecture and continuing cultural practices.
Executive Director of Heritage NSW Sam Kidman said the site, one kilometre north-west of the Goodooga township, is recognised by the local community as a special place where Aboriginal ancestors and families have been buried in the sandhills.
‘The Goodooga Tin Camp and Cemeteries hold significant Aboriginal cultural values for the Yuwaaliyaay/Urallaroi, Murrawarri and other Aboriginal peoples,’ said Mr Kidman.
‘Through the unbroken continuation of traditional use, the cemeteries allow a direct connection to country through the ancestors resting there.
‘It provides tangible evidence of historic and ongoing Aboriginal occupation, land-use, and a resting place for their ancestors,’ said Mr Kidman.
The site is made up of three historic cemeteries, characterised by partially buried upside-down glass bottles outlining the graves, and nearby tin huts that illustrate the way of life for people who lived on the reserve.
The cemeteries are still visited and maintained by family.
Aunty Phyllis Cubby, an Elder from the Goodooga community, said the displacement of Aboriginal people by European settlers led to the formation of the camp in 1896 on the Goodooga Town Common.
It became increasingly popular in the 1930s as it allowed people to maintain their independence. The tin camp is used for family gatherings, access to the Bokhara River, and for cultural and educational purposes.
There is also a memorial for the local Aboriginal soldiers who fought in World War II.
‘The Tin Camp to me is important because that was where our life was, and it is our home. Even though some of us have moved into the town, the tin camp is our life story and where it all began,’ said Aunty Phyllis.
‘We created the yard there for our soldiers who went to war, so once a year we gather there to celebrate and remember them.
‘The cemeteries are important because our family members are there. All the people buried there are families from the reserve, so all three cemeteries connect back to the reserve. That’s where our people were laid to rest,’ said Aunty Phyllis.
The traditional owners and other Aboriginal family groups have maintained their cultural connection to Goodooga Tin Camp and Cemeteries and have both historic and contemporary values that are preserved in oral histories.
