Although it is just over 200 years since European settlement, the pace of development, among other factors, has obliterated much evidence of Australia’s ancient culture. This is particularly true in our major cities. But sites do still remain, even in built city environments, showing another way of life existed on this continent before the British arrived.
On the Berry Island Reserve in Sydney Harbour, North Sydney Council together with the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council have created an interpretive trail highlighting significant archaeological sites.
The trail educates people about Aboriginal culture and preserves the evidence of that culture so future generations may understand the rich history of this country prior to European migration.
The 750 metre Gadyan Track, named after the Aboriginal word for the Sydney Cockle, a staple food of the district, interprets the life of the local Cammeraygal people through a series of signs.
Visitors are treated to an explanation of the cultural and spiritual significance of a number of sites including axe grinding grooves, a water hole, rock carvings and middens. North Sydney Mayor, Genia McCaffery, said that the Track marks another small but significant step in the process of reconciliation.
“Those who walk on the Gadyan Track will hopefully form new impressions of and attitudes towards Aboriginal culture,” she said. “The children from both cultures, present to celebrate the Track’s opening, are our best hope for true reconciliation in the future.”
Complementing the Track is a booklet ‘Hands Across Time’. This provides a written guide to the Aboriginal history of North Sydney and was Council’s contribution to the Year of Reconciliation in 1997.
The Track was opened in September last year and has since hosted hundreds of visitors. It won the 1998 NSW National Heritage Trust Award for North Sydney Council in the Tourism category. Currently, North Sydney Council is also undertaking an Aboriginal Heritage Study of all known sites in the North Sydney area.
For further information contact Sally Williams, telephone (02) 9936 8100.
