Kempsey Shire Council – 26 and 27 November 2009
We must report that the two day event held in Kempsey on the 26th and 27th of November was well attended despite the distance for many of us, and very informative – especially about Aboriginal heritage, around the north coast and hearing about recent programs and strategies of Lake Macquarie Council and the RTA. The Welcome to Country was given by a Dunghatti elder Uncle Blue – thanks Uncle Blue. Kempsey Shire Council’s charming Aboriginal Education officer - Tracey Edwards – kicked off by giving us all an insight into Aboriginal cultural heritage and the Dungatti area. She also stumped a few of us with a general knowledge quiz on Aboriginal history and achievements of Aboriginal people. Lunch was bush tucker and it was fresh wallaby and ginger steamed fish…a refreshing change from the usual sandwiches and very tasty! Other highlights were a tour of Trial Bay Gaol with Tom Jones, the ranger of Trial Bay National Park. Tom told us about the conservation issues and his approach to the treatment of materials.
Our appreciation is extendeed to Kempsey Shire Councillors Liz Cambell and Janet Hayes for hosting our Network, and of course, much appreciation to Kate Alberry and Stephen Booker for their organisational prowess! See the images below…
Tour of West Kempsey
Trial Bay Gaol, now a focus of cultural tourism and Burra Charter approved conservation works
The group get a tour with Tom Jones, Park ranger
Inside one of the interpretative cells
Tracey Edwards - Kempsey Council's Aboriginal Education Officer talks to the Network
Anglican Church West Kempsey
Kempsey Court House
Networkers in West Kempsey
