1/04/02
A competition to source valuable information about Western Australian mountains in the outback was launched today as part of the Year of the Outback celebrations.
The Minister responsible for the Year of the Outback, Tom Stephens, said the competition would help to provide valuable data about the history and cultural significance of more than 850 mountains throughout regional WA.
Mr Stephens called on interested persons and community groups to participate in a census-like project and to forward information which could form part of the State's historical records.
"With 2002 also being 'International Year of the Mountain', it is appropriate to link it in to the Year of the Outback celebrations and profile some of the best tall secrets of this State," he said.
"I realise many Western Australians associate other countries with mountains and may not be aware of the mountain ranges that we have in this State. The Year of the Outback activities will continue to raise their profile.
"We want to unearth the hidden knowledge and mystery that surround many of the mountains."
Mr Stephens said the Government was seeking the following supplementary information on individual mountain ranges:
- who first named the mountain?
- naming origin;
- description - height, location plus descriptive location;
- shape and geology;
- photograph (optional); and
- famous for - or stories about the mountain.
With Aboriginal-named mountains the following information could be included where possible:
- meaning or story associated with the name and mountain;
- language group; and
- source of information.
"The most valuable contribution submitted which contains new information will be rewarded with a WA holiday package from Qantas and the Broome Cable Beach Club," Mr Stephens said.
"Two economy airfares and two nights' accommodation will be provided, subject to availability - conditions apply.
"The mountain ranges across the North-West of our State also play a valuable role in the tourism industry.
"Gaining a greater understanding of their Aboriginal heritage and cultural background will enrich the tapestry of mountain stories.
"I encourage everyone to become involved in sharing with all Western Australians their knowledge of particular mountains or mountain ranges."
All WA schools will be invited to work on a 'mountain project' in term two of the school year, with the opportunity to win a prize for their school.
Entries can be mailed to:
Mountain Competition
Department of Local Government and Regional Development
GPO Box R1250
Perth 6001.
The competition closes on April 30.
To find out more about the Year of the Outback visit the new website:
http://www.outbackwa.info or contact Barry O'Sullivan, State Co-ordinator, on 9220 1819.
Information on mountain names can be source by emailing the Department of Land Administration on
mailroom@dola.wa.gov.au Minister's office: 9213 6500
