NSW Dept.of Planning and Environment, News & Media, 7 July 2023:
Honouring the Past, Healing the Present: Yaegl Ancestors Finally Rest on Country
7 July 2023
The
remains of 5 ancestors have been returned to the Yaegl people of
northern New South Wales, with a significant cultural ceremony
honouring their repatriation back to Country. Yaegl
Repatriation The
repatriation ceremony took place at the Yaegl Nature Reserve, just
north of Grafton near Maclean, which was the designated burial site
identified by the Yaegl community. The
repatriation follows the Australian Museum's decision to release 3
Ancestors to be returned to Yaegl country for a proper burial, along
with 2 Ancestors who were voluntarily handed over to National Parks
and Wildlife Service (NPWS) by a local landowner who expressed the
importance of ensuring their proper care. The
Yaegl Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation (registered Native
Title Group and nominated representatives) led the repatriation of
their Old Peoples remains to ensure the burial was in line with their
traditions and cultural practices. The
Yaegl Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation worked closely with
Heritage NSW, which provided assistance in the planning stages of
returning the remains and coordinating the repatriation. The
repatriation is a significant occasion, marking a milestone in the
ongoing reconciliation and healing process, and honouring the
ancestral connection between the Yaegl people and their traditional
lands. Billy
Walker, General Manager for Yaegl Traditional Owners Aboriginal
Corporation on behalf of Yaegl Elders group: "The
Yaegl people witnessed the return and repatriation of our Ancestors.
Our Ancestors are at eternal rest now they have been returned to
their traditional lands." Sam
Kidman, Executive Director Heritage NSW: "The
repatriation of the Yaegl Ancestors stands as a testament to the
importance of recognising the rights and aspirations of Indigenous
peoples, their cultural heritage, and the fundamental connection
between land, people, and spirit." Laura
McBride, Director, First Nations, Australian Museum: "The
Australian Museum is committed to be a cultural leader and advocate
for First Nations history and peoples, and as part of this commitment
has identified the repatriation of Ancestral Remains as a corporate
strategic priority. We are honoured to have helped facilitate the
return of Yaegl Ancestors and continue to support First Nations
communities to get their Old People home."
Yaegl Repatriation
Credit: Jamie Williams Photography
