Inland Rail donation puts Gummingurru artefacts in the spotlight
Gummingurru Aboriginal Corporation spokesperson Shannon Bauwens said traditional owners were sorting through hundreds of artefacts before deciding which would appear in the new display cabinet.
August 31, 2020
“We consulted with experienced curators about where they had sourced their display cabinets and they gave us a contact to have a specialised museum-grade case with internal lighting made for our artefacts,” Mr Bauwens said.
“We are now seeking additional investment to build Gummingurru into a world class cultural experience,” he said. “We want to display the best examples of indigenous culture we have so it has also given us a renewed focus on cataloguing the artefacts. We have hundreds to sort through before we will make a final decision on what will go on display.
“Grants like this one from Inland Rail will help us to continue to ‘resurrect’ and protect the site. As custodians we want all Australians interested in learning about Aboriginal culture and heritage to be able to visit the site,” Mr Bauwens said.
More than $319,000 in grants have been awarded to schools, volunteer groups and associations along the alignment as part of Inland Rail’s commitment to supporting local and regional prosperity, wellbeing and sustainability.
ARTC Inland Rail Director Engagement Environment and Property Rebecca Pickering said the Community Sponsorships and Donations program is a key commitment to ensure regional communities benefit from this unique project.
“With Inland Rail already delivering jobs confidence and local business uplift in communities along the rail corridor, the Sponsorships and Donations program is keeping the heart of our regional communities ticking by supporting volunteers, sporting groups and students alike,” Ms Pickering said.
For program terms and conditions and to access an application form, visit our website or email enquiries to IRCommunitySponsorships@artc.com.au
