Signs reinforce cultural connections

Signposting Country using Aboriginal language and art on NSW State Roads reinforces the deep connection Aboriginal people have with the land and helps develop an understanding in the wider community about the importance of that connection.

Many of the transport routes we use today including rail lines, roads and water crossings follow the traditional Songlines, trade routes and ceremonial paths on Country that Aboriginal people followed for tens of thousands of years.

Protocols for welcoming visitors to Country have been a part of Aboriginal culture for thousands of years.

In December 2020 the first Acknowledgement of Country signs were installed on NSW state roads, on Yaegl Country (around Maclean and Yamba) and on Darkinjung Country (near the Central Coast).

Installing signs which acknowledge Country recognises Aboriginal people as the First Australians who have an ongoing cultural connection to the place, demonstrates respect for Traditional Custodians and promotes the use of Aboriginal languages.

Bill Walker, CEO of the Yaegl Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, said the signs showcased the unique local culture “from the mountains to the sea” and identified Yaegl Country. “It tells us who we are,” he said.

Aboriginal artist Charlene Williams said her artwork for the Yaegl sign told the story of Dirrangun, the old Aboriginal woman who stood in the path of the Clarence River and created the surrounding landforms and islands. There’s also reference to a giant eel who shook barnacles off his back to form the townships of the Clarence Valley.

A Signposting Country Manual has been developed, which will now enable Acknowledgement of Country signage to be installed on every State Road in NSW.