Wonnarua elder Scott Franks has welcomed the NSW Government’s decision to list Ravensworth Homestead on the State Heritage Register, saying it is a critical step toward truth-telling and justice for Wonnarua people.
The listing follows years of opposition to plans by mining giant Glencore to expand its Glendell coal mine and relocate the homestead, a site of cultural significance and Aboriginal resistance.
"This land is profoundly significant to my people, and we’ve fought long and hard against a billion-dollar mining company to have it recognised and protected," Mr Franks said.
"The massacres and resistance at Ravensworth Homestead are well-documented by both cultural knowledge holders and government agencies, including the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
"There are Wonnarua adults and children on the site who have not been properly laid to rest. I look forward to the day when we can access the site for the first time, and hold the appropriate ceremony."
NSW Minister for Heritage Penny Sharpe announced the new State Heritage Register listing yesterday, which includes the homestead site and 500 surrounding hectares.
Mr Franks now hopes to secure formal recognition of the site as an Aboriginal Place, which will grant it extra protection under NSW’s National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.
"With the bicentenary of the Ravensworth massacre approaching in August, there is a real opportunity to acknowledge the atrocities that occurred against Aboriginal people and ensure this history is not ignored," he said.
"Now the Minister has confirmed the indisputable cultural significance of this site, we hope Glencore will work with us to open the site for recognition and healing."