Interpretive trail opens gateway to Aboriginal heritage and culture

3/8/03
Plans to develop an Aboriginal interpretive trail in Perth linking the Swan River, the city's Cultural Centre, East Perth, and Crawley were unveiled today by Indigenous Affairs Minister John Kobelke.
Mr Kobelke revealed the five-year project, an initiative of the Department of Indigenous Affairs, the City of Perth and the Nyoongar community, would use historical plaques and public art to recognise important Aboriginal heritage sites in the metropolitan area.
"As Indigenous Affairs Minister, I am excited by the potential of this project to inspire interest in Aboriginal heritage and culture," the Minister said.
"This has been one of the guiding principles since initial discussions began last year.
"Culture and the arts add to the quality of life of Western Australians, and the Gallop Government is encouraging our vibrant, creative, and culturally diverse community to express itself through the arts."
Mr Kobelke said the idea was to create a gateway to indigenous heritage and culture in WA, with the aim of providing information on various locations in Perth - promoting the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal significance of those sites.
"The five-stage interpretive trail will introduce people to the depth and diversity of Aboriginal culture, and provide a valuable tourist asset," he said.
Stage One will include Herrison Island, Fraser Point, Barrack Square, the Convention Centre, the Swan Brewery and Kings Park. Other stages will include Perth's Cultural Centre, East Perth and Crawley.
In Stage Five, the trail will link in with the City of Perth's foreshore redevelopment plans offering indigenous art and performances as part of the city's cultural repertoire.
"The more that people are exposed to the importance of Aboriginal culture and heritage, the greater will be their understanding of why indigenous people consider so many areas around Perth to be significant," Mr Kobelke said.
"I am certain as this project grows, it will become one of the foremost educative, informative, and interactive trails - for Western Australians, and all visitors to Perth."
Minister's office: 9222 9211