WA Shire signs Noongar Heritage Agreement

The Shire of Chittering in WA has become the first local government in the Yued Agreement Area to sign up to a Noongar Standard Heritage Agreement.

Heritage protection agreements of this kind establish the procedures by which local government authorities work with Yued Aboriginal Corporation to plan and undertake ground disturbing works with certainty and cultural safety.

“We are delighted to reach this agreement with the Shire of Chittering,” Sharna Meinertz, Chairperson, Yued Aboriginal Corporation, said.

“Yued want to work together with communities across Yued Boodja. Yued have always been here and will become increasingly important drivers of regional cultural, social and economic outcomes across the Yued Agreement Area.

“The Shire of Chittering understands that recognising the importance of respecting Yued cultural heritage through signing this agreement is the bedrock for building successful partnerships in the future.”

Meaningful outcomes

Melinda Prinsloo, Chief Executive Officer, Shire of Chittering, said the agreement was a milestone long in the making.

“By collaborating under this agreement, we will deliver meaningful outcomes for our Shire and the Yued community—shared opportunities, better projects, and benefits that will enable the respectful continuation of works with due consideration for the protection of heritage.” she said.

Yued Aboriginal Corporation, as the Regional Corporation under the South West Native Title Settlement for an area of 26,000 square kilometres in the coastal and Central Midlands, is the front door for all enquiries about cultural heritage in Yued Boodja.

The agreement lays the foundation for what both Yued and Chittering hope will be an ever deepening and sophisticated relationship to the benefit of the whole community.

• Main photo: Mark Campbell, President, Shire of Chittering and Sharna Meinertz, Chair, Yued Aboriginal Corporation (seated; Melinda Prinsloo, Chief Executive Officer, Shire of Chittering, Rewi Lyall, Chief Executive Officer, Yued Aboriginal Corporation.