Standing some 464 metres above sea level, Djerra or Mt Keira, is a much-loved and recognisable landmark in the city.
It has special significance to the traditional Aboriginal custodians of the Illawarra as a women’s place and has links to Aboriginal creation stories. Djeera also features in stories of European settlement and development of the region.
Right now, NSW Heritage is considering an Aboriginal Place nomination for Djeera and the Five Islands under the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. The nomination is a way to recognise and protect Aboriginal cultural heritage and does not affect land ownership and is not linked to Native Title or Land Claims legislation.
Council has at its meeting on Monday 27 November, provided in principle support to recognise the cultural significance of the Council-owned and managed land of Mount Keira Summit Park and Gooyong Street Reserve that fall within the land in the nomination.
“We’ve long recognised the significance of Djeera to the Aboriginal community including through seeking input from the local Aboriginal community into the site’s Plan of Management or the installation of on-site artwork that highlights the mountain’s special place in local Dreamings,” Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.
“While most of the nominated land is managed by the NSW ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Parks and Wildlife Service, we have been asked to support the Aboriginal Place nomination for the land that we own and manage, and we do. We value the history and connection to Country that the Aboriginal community have and support of this nomination.”
While Council will provide Heritage NSW with a submission advising of Council’s support as a landowner, we’ll also ask for operational matters to be addressed should the declaration be finalised.
“While we’re supportive of the nomination, there are practical matters that need to be considered as part of this process that will allow Council and other infrastructure providers to continue routine management activities, emergency works and to continue to service the ongoing use of the area,” Cr Bradbery said.
“This is why we’re also asking for a Management Plan for the Aboriginal Place, should it go ahead as this document will guide us to continue any current day-to-day works, we might do in the area to support access, recognise its cultural significance and to facilitate continued use of the Mountain Keira Summit Park for activities like bush walking and picnicking.”
Should the Djeera nomination be successful, it will be the third recognised Aboriginal Place in Wollongong. The other Aboriginal Places are located at Sandon Point and Bellambi Point.
Want to know more? Read the Council report on the Aboriginal Place Nomination.
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