an archaeological investigation of abo~ sites at callan point and ...

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

1.0 INTRODUCTION I 

2.0 CONSULTAnON 4 

2. I The Leichhardt Council 

2.2 The Leichhardt Cuouncil Project Steering Committee 

2.3 The Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council 

2.4 Property Owners 

2.5 Consultation with Colleagues 

2.6 Additional Consultation 

3.0 PROJECT METHODOLOGY 9 

3.1 The Background Component 

3.2 Field Work 

3.3 The Data Analysis and Assessment 

4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL SEITING FOR THE PROJECT AREAS 13 

4.1 The Pre-European Landscape of the Leichhardt Municipality 

4.2 The Environmental Setting of Callan Point 

4.3 The Environmental Setting of Yurulbin Point 

5.0 ETHNOHISTORIC INFORMATION 15 

5.1 The Role of Ethnohistory in Archaeological Research 

5.2 Ethnohistoric Sources 

6.0 PRE-CONTACT ABORIGINAL SOCIETY 17 

6.1 Population Estimates 

6.2 Aboriginal Land Tenure 

6.3 The Pre-contact Aboriginal Economy in the Sydney Region 

7.0 POST CONTACT ABORIGINAL SOCIETY 26 

Page

8.0 PREVIOUS ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH IN THE PORT 30 

JACKSON CATCHMENT AREA 

8.1 Excavation and Collection 

8.2 Field Surveys and Site Recordings 

8.3 Shell Middens and Deposit Sites 

8.4 Rock Art Sites Across the Sydney Basin 

9.0 PREVIOUS ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH IN THE 38 

PROJECT AREAS 

9.1 Callan Point 

9.2 Yurulbin Point 

10.0 FIELD WORK MEfHODOLOGY 43 



11.0 RESULTS / DISCUSSION FOR CALLAN POINT 46 

ILl The Open Midden Site 

11.2 The Shelter Midden Site 

11.3 Other Finds in the Callan Point Area 

11.4 Summary for the Callan Point Area 

12.0 RESULTS / DISCUSSION FOR YURULBIN POINT 60 

12.1 Rock Overhang at 144 Louisa Road 

12.2 Rock Overhang at 9 Numa Street 

12.3 The Shelter / Art Site at 7 Numa Street 

12.4 Further Discussions 

12.5 Further Findings From This Project 

13.0 SIGNIFICANCE ASSESSMENTS 75 

13.1 Significance Criteria 

13.2 The Significance ofAboriginal Sites Investigated During 

This Project

.\ 

14.0 MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS 

14.1 The Sites at Callan Point 

14.2 The Sites at Yurulbin Point 

14.3 General Management Recommendations 

15.0 GUIDELINES FOR THE INTERPRETAnON OF THE 

ABORIGINAL HERITAGE OF THE LEICHHARDT REGION, 

NSW 89 

15.1 Identified Aboriginal Heritage Education PrioritiesWithin the 

Leichhardt Municipality 

15.2 General Pamphlet on the Aboriginal Heritage of the Leichhardt 

Region 

15.3 Interpretation Sign for the Cullan Point Aboriginal Sites 

15.4 Wording for the Cullan Point Aboriginal Sites Interpretative Sign 

15.5 Interpretation Sign for Yurulbin Point Aboriginal Sites 

1. The Study Area 

2. The Location of Sites at Callan Point 

3. The Location of Sites at Callan Point 

MAPS 

TABLES 

1. Heritage Studies Completed in Sydney Shire Councils 

2. Aboriginal Clans in the Sydney Region 

DIAGRAMS 

1. Plan of the Open Shell Midden on the Headland at Callan Point 

2. The Shelter I Midden Site at Callan Point 

3. Overhang at 144 Lousia Rd 

4. Overhang at 9 Numa St 

5. Shelter I Art Site at 7 Numa 

6. Previously Recorded Motifs at Shelter I Art Site at 7 Numa St 

63 

3 

59 

61 

1 

21 

47 

53 

62 

66 

67 

70

7. Sketch of Rock Art in Rock Overhang at 7 Numa St 71 

8. Sketch of Hand Stencils visible on wall of Rock Overhang at 7 Numa St 72 

9. Plan Showing the Proposed Location of Boardwalks at Callan Point 80 

APPENDIX 1 : Katherine Sale Report "Notes on the Art at 7 Numa St"

1.0 INTRODUCTION 

In the past 5-10 years, nine Shire Councils within the Sydney Region have completed, or 

are in the process of carrying out heritage studies within their Municipality (see Table 1). 

In each case, information regarding the Aboriginal heritage for the area formed a 

component of the study. 

Shire Council 

Blacktown 

Burwood 

Hunter's Hill 

Ku-ring-gai 

Lane Cove 

Manly 

Strathfield 

Warringah 

Woollahra 

TABLE 1 

Researcher & Year ofReport 

Kohen (1986) 

Rich (1986a) 

Walker & Associates (l984a & 1984b) 

Koettig (1988) 

Smith (1988) 

Rich (l986b) 

Rich (l986a) 

Haglund (1984) 

Haglund (1986) 

As Attenbrow (1990) points out, part of the responsibility for managing Aboriginal sites 

within the Sydney region now rests with Local Councils. As such, these heritage studies 

usually constitute the first stage in the process of documenting ilUd assessing the heritage 

value of sites in their municipality, and establishing preliminary management guidelines 

for these sites. 

In 1988 the Leichhardt Council commissioned a Heritage Study to be undertaken for the 

Municipality. The brief for this study was to examine the thematic history of the 

Municipality. The study was commenced in 1989, by McDonald McPhee Pty Ltd, with 

the draft report being submitted in 1990. 

The Leichhardt Heritage Study as it presently stands, focuses solely on European 

heritage. Mr B. McDonald, the project leader for the study, explained to the Leichhardt 

1

Council that in his view the procedures and expertise required for dealing with Aboriginal 

heritage were quite different than those required for European heritage. In light of this, he 

felt that Aboriginal heritage would not be well served by being included in a cross 

cultural study. 

In order to complete the Cultural Heritage study for the Municipality, the Leichhardt 

Council resolved to commission a separate investigation to be undertaken for Aboriginal 

heritage. 

Australian Archaeological Survey Consultants (AASC) were commissioned by the 

Leichhardt Council to undertake this study. The general aims being: 

- To record and map previously identified Aboriginal Sites at two locations within the 

Leichhardt Municipality; 

- To provide guidelines for the conservation, management and interpretations of these 

sites. 

- To provide background information on the post-contact Aboriginal history of the area. 

The Aboriginal sites to be investigated as part of this study are located within two areas 

(see Map I). 

The first of these areas is Callan Point, situated on the grounds of the Rozelle Hospital. 

Five Aboriginal sites have been identified in this area by various people including Dr Val 

Attenbrow from the Australian Museum. All of these sites are recorded as shell middens, 

or suspected shell middens. 

The second area where Aboriginal sites have been identified is Yurulbin Point (Long 

Nose Point), situated in Balmain. Mr Guider (an amateur archaeologist) has recorded 

three Aboriginal sites along the NW shoreline ofthis point. Two of these are reported 

midden sites located under rock overhangs. The third is an art site, where several hand 

stencils and a charcoal outline of a shark were identified. 

To date, the only known Aboriginal sites still in existence within the Leichhardt 

Municipality are situated within these two areas. This is hardly surprising given that 

2

Callan Point and Yurulbin Point constitute two of the last areas of relatively undisturbed 

natural shoreline in the Municipality. With the exclusion of these two areas, virtually all 

the land within Leichhardt has been subject to development. This includes the shoreline 

areas, which have been subject to infill and reclamation. 

4

2.0 CONSULTATION 

One of the major components of this project has been the process of consultation. 

Numerous parties have been identified as having a direct concern in the outcomes of this 

investigation. AASC has endeavoured to maintain communications with these parties 

throughout the duration of the project. The following provides the details for this 

consultative process. 

2.1 The Leichhardt Council 

The Leichhardt Council has nominated Jeanne Townsend, the Council's Aboriginal 

Community Worker and Bruce Lay, the Council's ArchitectJPlanner, to be the contacts 

for this project. 

On Tuesday 29-11-1994, members of AASC met with Bruce Lay to discuss project 

details, and to undertake a brief inspection of the two project areas. The first of the areas 

to be visited was Callan Point. Bruce Lay provided a brief tour of the area, pointing out 

the location of the two midden sites identified by Val Attenbrow, and conveying some 

general points of information for the project area. 

The second area to be visited was Yurulbin Point. Again Bruce Lay provided a brief tour 

of the sites in the area, providing information for the area where required. Given that all 

the Aboriginal sites located in this area are situated on private land, one of the main 

purposes for this visit was to meet with the property owners and advise them as to project 

details. The owner of number 9 Numa Street, where two of the sites were located, was not 

available. However, the caretakers of the house were advised that AASC would contact 

the owner prior to field work commencing. The same situation applies for 144 Louisa 

Road, where another of the sites is located. Again the owner was not home, but the 

caretaker was informed that AASC would establish contact in the near future. 

Bruce Lay advised AASC that both property owners had been previously informed by 

Council that they wished to have an archaeological investigation undertaken for these 

sites. Both property owners had given their consent for this project to go ahead. 

5

On returning to Council, Bruce Lay provided AASC with background material for the 

project, together with the contact numbers for those individuals and parties who were to 

be involved in the project. 

From this point on regular contact was made with both Bruce Lay and Jeanne Townsend 

regarding the progress of the project. 

2.2 The Leichhardt Council Project Steering Committee 

The Leichhardt Council formed a steering committee to oversee the progress of this 

project. 

A progress report outlining the background research stage of this project was submitted 

for review to the Steering Committee in mid December. The draft report detailing the 

findings of this investigation has also been submitted for review to the Committee. The 

final report includes any alterations or concerns the Committee have identified from the 

draft report. 

2.3 The Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council 

On Monday, 5-12-1994, AASC contacted Mary Coe from the Metropolitan Local 

Aboriginal Land Council (LALC). We were advised by the Land Council that Mary Coe 

would be away until after Christmas. 

On the 20-12-1994 AASC were able to organise an on site meeting with Mary and Jenny 

Coe. An inspection was made of the Callan Point and the Yurulbin Point site areas. 

Discussions were held regarding any concerns and ideas that Mary and Jenny Coe may 

have regarding site research and site management options. The outcomes of these 

discussions are outlined in the results section of this report. 

Sadly, Mary Coe died shortly after this meeting. Subsequent matters concerning this 

project have been directed to the duly elected Sites Officer for the Metropolitan Land 

Council, Mr William Wallace. On the 22 June AASC members met with Mr Wallace. It 

was agreed by the Metropolitan Land Council that the report would be dedicated to Ms 

MaryCoe. 

6

2.4 Property Owners 

The three sites to be investigated at Yurulbin Point are all located on privately owned 

land. A rock shelter is located at 144 Louisa Road, Birchgrove. The owner of this 

property, Georgina Carnegie could not be contacted throughout the duration of this 

project. However, the caretaker of the property provided pennission to access the site for 

recording purposes. 

A second rockshelter is located at 9 Numa Street, Birchgrove. The owner of this property 

Cybel Mastennan gave permission for AASC to access the site whenever was necessary. 

An art site and associated rockshelter is located at 7 Numa Street, Birchgrove. Again, the 

property owners, Bruce Allen and Helen Styles, gave pennission for members ofAASC 

to access the property when required. 

Given the fact that future management options for these three sites will directly involve 

the respective property owners, AASC have attempted to ensure that they are involved in 

discussions regarding these matters. It is proposed that each of the property owners 

receive a draft copy of this report and that AASC make themselves available to discuss 

any concerns that may arise. 

2.5 Consultation With Colleagues 

AASC has attempted to enlist the advice of several colleagues who were identified as 

having certain expertise relevant to this project and/or may be involved in research 

projects which tie in with this project. 

Val Attenbrow from the Australian Museum has been involved in on going research into 

midden and deposit sites within the Port Jackson Catchment. On Tuesday, 6-12-1994, 

AASC attempted contacted Val Attenbrow, but were infonned that Val Attenbrow would 

be away on a conference until the 13-12"1994. 

Shortly after Christmas Val Attenbrow was invited by members ofAASC to an on site 

inspection of the project areas. Val Attenbrow declined the offer but stated that she would 

be happy discuss any aspects of the project with us. 

7

In mid February, AASC organised for John Clegg, Nick Hall and Catherine Sale to 

undertake an inspection of the Yurulbin project area. All three workers are recognised as 

being authorities on aspects of Aboriginal rock art. The purpose of the site inspection was 

to gain advise as to management and conservation options for the rock art identified at 7 

Numa Street. 

All three workers also accompanied members ofAASC to rock art site at White Horse 

Point, the existence of which had been known to John Clegg. 

The outcomes of these site visitations are documented in the results section of this report. 

2.6 Additional Consultation 

On Thursday, 8-12-1994, AASC were placed in contact with Peter Jenson, a bush 

regenerator, who had been advising the Leichhardt Council as to possible landscaping 

measures to be undertaken at Callan Point. It was organised for Peter Jenson to meet 

AASC on site, on Monday 19-12-1994. Unfortunately, Peter Jenson was unable to attend 

this meeting. 

AASC were unable to establish contact with Michael Guider, an interested member of the 

public, who originally located and recorded several of the sites investigated during this 

project. 

8

3.0 PROJECT METHODOLOGY 

Within the discipline of archaeology, it is no longer acceptable for workers to enter the 

field with merely a general notion of their objectives. Rather, the emphasis has now been 

placed upon conducting research according to a carefully constructed research design. A 

major component of this research design is the establishment ofthe techniques and 

methodology to be employed in achieving specific project objectives. 

To accomplish the specified objectives of this project, a three fold methodological 

approach has been established. These are summarised as follows: 

1) The background component; 

2) The field work component; 

3) The data analysis and interpretation; 

3.1 The Background Component 

The background component of this project entails the following tasks: 

I) Establishing communications with the staff of the Leichhardt Council, and the. 

Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC), and ensuring that all 

relevant parties understand and are in agreement with the project objectives; 

2) To conduct a thorough literature search for published and unpublished 

references to the archaeology of study region; 

3) To conduct a review of the ethnohistoric and anthropological literature for the 

study region ; 

4) To interview workers who have undertaken archaeological research in the study 

area in order to document their views and knowledge of the Aboriginal sites in 

the study area; 

5) To research into the land use history of the study region, in order to ascertain the 

possible impacts upon the known and unknown Archaeological sites in the project 

area. 

9

6) To gather other relevant documentation for the study region, including aerial 

photographs and maps; 

7) In conjunction with the Leichhardt Council, the Metropolitan LALC and other 

interested parties, to establish a field survey strategy for the project; 

3.2 Field Work 

The Leichhardt Council has identified two specific areas within their Municipality, 

which were to be archaeologically investigated by AASC. These being Callan Point and 

Yurilbin Point. 

The following personnel participated in the field surveying component of the project: 

- Stuart Huys 

- Dave Johnston 

- Sam Wickman 

An outline of the particular field survey strategies adopted for each site is presented in the 

relevant chapters for these sites. 

When recording sites, the following details were to be noted where relevant. 

I) Site Location: 

All sites located during the course of the field survey were plotted on a I: 100 ()()() 

topographical map; 

2) Site Type: 

In this survey, sites have been classified under the following categories; 

- isolated find ( a single artefact ); 

- open artefact scatter ( 2 or more artefacts, each of which is situated within 50m of each 

other); 

- scarred tree ( scarring of a tree caused by a human agent ); 

- shell midden; 

- hearth ; 

- historic site; 

- other. 

10

3) Environmental Setting: 

Details were nqted of the surrounding landscape in which the site was located. These 

included: 

- The environmental zone ( eg beach, lake etc) ; 

- The topography ( eg on ridge, flat etc) ; 

- Distance from site to water. 

4) Site Size: 

When recording artefact scatters it is often difficult to establish the parameters of a site, 

due mainly to poor surface visibility. In these instances, site boundaries have been 

defined as the limit of artefact distribution visible on the surface. Using this method, the 

observed site may be considered to constitute a representative sample of the total site. 

However, it must be acknowledged that intra-site spatial variations in artefact distribution 

may bias results to an unknown degree. 

5) Artefact Details: 

The following attributes of stone artefacts were recorded: 

- artefact typology ( eg flake, core etc) ; 

- artefact material type ( eg chert, silcrete etc) ; 

- colour 

- dimensions ( Length x Width x Thickness) ; 

- comments ( eg presence of use-wear, retouch etc ). 

Photographs were taken of all sites located during surveying, as a supplement to the 

written record. 

3.3 The Data Analysis and Assessment 

The analysis of the data collated during this project was conducted on two separate levels. 

First, the data obtained for each survey area was analysed independently. Then the data 

from both the survey areas was analysed as a complete entity. 

With the analysis of the data, specific attention was paid to : 

I) Site types present within the separate survey areas and their relationship; 

2) The distribution of site types within the landscape; 

11

3) The relationship between site types, site densities, and environmental factors; 

4) The artefact types and artefactual materials present within the archaeologi

4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING FOR THE PROJECT AREAS 

Numerous investigations within Eastern Australia have revealed that the nature and 

distribution of archaeological sites across the landscape are strongly influenced by 

environmental factors. The bedrock geology of a region, it's landforms, soils, vegetation, 

and climate, all combine to influence the distribution and availability of resources 

considered to be of importance to prehistoric Aboriginal groups (these being, plant and 

animal foods, water, raw materials for tool making, ochre and suitable campsites). Such 

factors will also affect the ease with which people could travel across the landscape. It 

stands to reason then, that in order to properly understand, or indeed predict patterns of 

Aboriginal activity within a region, one must first be familiar with the environmental 

setting ofthe study region. 

4.1 The Pre-European Landscape ofthe Leichhardt Municipality 

The pre-European landscape in and around the Leichhardt Municipality would have been 

typical of much of the Sydney Harbour area. The major geological deposit in this area is 

the Hawkesbury Sandstone, which runs in a south-west to north-east direction (NSW 

PWD 1990). Steep angular faults in this sandstone has produced a characteristic 

topography for the area, which can be categorised into three clearly defined topographic 

zones. These being flat ridge tops, steep slopes incised by streams, and a shoreline of 

rocky cliffs, small sandy beaches and marshes (Powell 1986). 

The original shoreline of the area was formed through localised erosion patterns of a 

dendritic nature, which created an irregular series of small coves and rocky points (NSW 

PWD 1990). This shoreline was edged by low rocky cliffs, small sandy beaches and areas 

of swamp where creeks met the tidal waters (Powell 1986). 

On the basis of early photographs, etchings and descriptions, it has been possible for 

workers to gain a fairly clear picture as to the original natural vegetation for the area. The 

dominant vegetation in the area appears to have been open forests and woodland 

comprising scribbly gums (Eucalyptus haemastoma), Red Bloodwoods (Eucalyptus 

gumnifera) and Sydney Red Gums (Angophora costata), with a profusion of shrubs as an 

understorey. On the deeper soils formed in the gullies, stands of Blackbutt (Eucalyptus 

pilularis) could be found (NSW PWD 1990). 

13

Along the rocky waterfront, casuarinas and scribbly gum were predominant, with 

Mangroves and paperbarks likely to have been present in and around the swamp margins 

(Powell 1986). 

4.2 The Environmental Setting ofCallan Point 

Callan Point constitutes one of the last remnant areas of natural shoreline still existing in 

the Leichhardt Municipality. It is a natural rock outcropping which extends out to the 

waters of Iron Cove. On the north-east side of the point the natural rocky shoreline is still 

evident, with it's sandy beaches, rock ledges and remnant indigenous vegetation. This 

vegetation includes a few scattered she oak, rough barked Apples and Bangalay trees, as 

well as several species of native grasses, including Kangaroo grass (Themedaaustralis). 

Prior to the 1880's, two small inlets were located either side of Callan Point. However, by 

the tum of the century these inlets had been almost completely filled in, as part of a 

process of land reclamation undertaken in the area. As a protective measure for this 

reclaimed land, a sandstone block seawall was set in place, replacing the original rugged 

shoreline (Powell 1986). 

4.3 The Environmental Setting ofYurulbin Point 

As with the majority of the shoreline in the Leichhardt Municipality, the shoreline around 

Yurulbin Point has been infilled and landscaped. A retaining sea wall has been built 

around a considerable portion of the shoreline of Yurulbin Point. The area between this 

sea wall and the base of the sand stone cliffs which delineate the point has been subject to 

infill. 

On top ofYurulbin Point the majority of the natural vegetation cover has been cleared. 

The area along both the north and the south cliffs of the point is now residential, while 

the easterly most portion of the point which fonnerly served as an industrial waterfront 

has been landscaped into a park area. Within this park area a few Mature Eucalypts still 

exist. 

14

5.0 ETHNOmSTORIC INFORMATION 

5.1 The Role OfEthnohistory In Archaeological Research 

Ethnohistory entails the use of historical literature as a source for constructing 

ethnographic analogies and models in the study of the prehistory and contact history of 

indigenous peoples (McBryde 1979). Although ethnohistoric accounts have been 

recognised as a valuable source for providing insights into the lifeways of prehistoric 

people, their application can be problematical. These problems relate primarily to the 

nature of the sources, their accuracy and I or validity. 

Both Webb (1984) and Dowling (1990) consider that the major weakness of many 

Australian ethnohistoric accounts is the tendency for European values and concepts to 

bias the observer's perceptions. Further distortions appear likely, when we consider that 

many ethnohistoric accounts were recorded during a period when Aboriginal culture in 

many parts of Australia was under great pressure from European contact. 

Yet, not all ethnohistorical accounts should be disregarded because of these pitfalls. 

Webb (1984) provides a framework by which the accuracy or value of a report may be 

judged. This stipulates the known competence of the observer, the type of description 

given, the region involved and the degree ofprevious European influence in the region. 

Although somewhat subjective in itself, we feel this framework provides a good basis for 

such assessment, and will therefor be utilised in the review of ethnohistoric accounts of 

Aboriginal activity in and around the Sydney Harbour area. 

In adopting this procedure, it is acknowledged that ethnohistoric accounts can only be 

reasonably utilised to draw assumptions as to the lifestyles of Aboriginals at around the 

time of the original recording of the account. The further back into prehistory we go, the 

more limited these assumptions become (Peterson 1971). 

15

5.2 Etbnohistoric Sources 

Flood (1980) identifies three types of ethnohistoric observations; 

1) The first hand, eyewitness observations made at the time offirst contact with 

Europeans; 

2) First hand observations made at a later stage when Aboriginal society had become 

"Europeanised"; 

3) Second-hand or generalised accounts ofAboriginal life. 

The ethnohistoric accounts of Aborigines in the Sydney region includes these three types 

of observations. 

Of these sources of information, the most valuable and reliable, for the reconstruction of 

pre-contact Aboriginal life, are the first-hand observations made at the time offirst 

contact with Europeans. These include the accounts by explorers, surveyors and pioneer 

settlers. This does not necessarily mean that other forms of observations should be 

disregarded. However, caution must be exercised in their application. 

From the Sydney region comes some of the earliest European observations ofAboriginal 

society in Australia. These accounts, which predominantly come from First Fleet 

colonists, are of particular value because they were recorded prior to Aboriginal culture 

being severely effected by European contact. 

From such sources ofinformation, insights may be gained into aspects of Aboriginal life 

such as demography, material culture, language, social and political relationships, 

subsistence regimes, and ideological beliefs. Some of these will be discussed below. 

16

6.0 PRE .CONTACT ABORIGINAL SOCIETY 

6.1 Population Estimates 

To estimate the size and distribution of the pre-contact Aboriginal populations within 

areas ofAustralia is extremely problematic. In arriving at such estimates, workers often 

rely on ethnohistoric accounts for information. However, two factors must be taken into 

account when utilising these accounts. 

- The impact of European occupation upon Aboriginal societies at the time of the 

recording of the account. 

- The accuracy and/or validity of ethnohistoric recordings. 

As stated earlier in this chapter, the most valuable and reliable ethnohistoric accounts are 

the first-hand observations made at the time of initial contact between Aboriginal and 

European people. 

As such, the accounts of the members of the First Fleet are considered to be of primary 

importance in estimating population numbers in the Sydney area. 

On arriving in Australia, Captain Arthur Phillip was instructed to report back to England 

as to the number of indigenous people that inhabited the area around the intended 

settlement. On May 15, 1788, he wrote to Lord Sydney, advising: 

II It is not possible to determine with any accuracy the number o/natives, but I 

think that in Botany Bay, andthe intermediate coast they cannot be less than one 

thousandfive hundred. II (Attenbrow 1988). 

Kohen (1985) is of the opinion that Phillip has underestimated the population levels in 

this area. He suggests that there were probably between 5 000 - 8 000 Aboriginal people 

living in the area between Botany Bay, the Hawkesbury River and the Blue Mountains, 

around the period of initial European contact. 

17

6.2 Aboriginal Land Tenure 

Archaeologists, have from the beginning, struggled in their attempts to understand and 

define Aboriginal land tenure. A good deal of this confusion still exists within the 

discipline today. Particularly in regards to such issues as the nature of pre-contact 

Aboriginal groupings, the Aboriginal concepts of land ownership, and the relationship of 

both these to pre-contact Aboriginal land use. 

These issues are confronted in a preliminary way in this chapter. The purpose being to 

establish a basic framework of understanding regarding Aboriginal social organisation, 

within which the archaeology of the study area may be viewed. Such an understanding is 

an essential pre-requisite to any archaeological research concerned with analysing the 

relationship between Aboriginal people and their environment. 

Within Australia the band is generally considered by anthropologists as the basic social 

and economic unit in pre-contact Australian Aboriginal society ( Service 1966 : Peterson 

1976 ). It is described as a small scale population, comprised of between two to six 

extended family units, which together cooperate in the food quest ( Service 1966 ). The 

composition of this group (in terms of numbers) was by no means rigid, with group sizes 

fluctuating in response to such factors as the availability of resources and visiting kin 

(Peterson 1975). 

Individual bands are seen to occupy and exploit a specific range ( Service 1966 ). The 

actual delineation of a group's range is problematical, since they are not easily 

definable. The ideal method of defining the range would be to identify the outermost 

points of an area used by a group. Yet, as Peterson (1986) points out, the kind of evidence 

needed to achieve this, ( details of daily movements over several years) is not available 

for any group within Australia. Nor is such evidence likely to be discernible in the 

archaeological record. The practical alternative, both from an archaeological and an 

anthropological perspective, is to identify the base camps used over a period by a group. 

This provides a rough equivalent of the "home range" . 

Despite the difficulties faced in defining ranges, Peterson (1986) believes there is good 

evidence for supposing that bands are localised and generally have more or less bounded 

and exclusive ranges. The most significant evidence being ethnographic accounts 

18

ecording the elaborate rites of entry accorded to visitors when entering a band's range 

(see Peterson 1986). There is however, no evidence to suggest that members of a band 

actively defended the boundaries of these ranges, Peterson (1986). 

The band is in essence a land using group, but not a land owning group. Land ownership 

was vested in "the clan" , which had rights in an area called an estate (Stanner 1965). It is 

uncertain whether clans within Eastern Australia were strictly patrilineal (as is suggested 

in other parts of Australia), or whether membership was determined more on the basis of 

place of birth (White & Cane 1986). Mathews (1906) suggests that a child generally 

belonged to the "clan country", or territorial group of it's father, the woman usually 

having moved to her husbands "country" when married. 

The Sydney Region 

Within the Sydney region, each clan is reported to have taken the name of the area in 

which they usually resided. The suffix 'gal' was added to the place name in order to 

distinguish the male members of the clan, while the suffix 'galleon' was used to 

distinguish the female members (Collins 1975 [1798)) 

Early ethnohistoric accounts provide some indication of the names of clans occupying 

selected areas within the Sydney region. Collins (1975 [1798]) states that 

"... the southern shore ofBotany Bay is called 'Gwea', and the people who inhabit it style 

themselves Gweagal". Those who live on the north shore ofPort Jackson are called 

Cam-mer-ray, that part ofthe harbour being distinguishedfrom others by the name of 

Cam-mer-ray... "). 

In a report made in 1788, Phillip mentions that the territory of the Cadigal people 

stretched along the south side of Port Jackson, from what is now South Head, through to 

Petersham. The area along the southern banks ofthe Parramatta River, from Petersham 

west to Rosehill, was reported to belong to the Wangal ( Phillip 1788 in Turbet 1989). 

On the basis of this evidence, together with other reports, Kohen (1985) believes that the 

area now encompassed by the Leichhardt Municipality was the home of the Wangal clan. 

The boundary of the Wangal and Cadigal clans is identified as lying along the Balmain 

Peninsula. 

19

In total, there have been 34clan groups identified as having occupied areas in and around 

Sydney (Kohen 1985). Table 2 provides the names and areas associated with these clans. 

20

Table 2 : Aboriginal Clans in the Sydney Region (Koen 1985) 

Clan Name Language Group General Locality 

Cadigal Dharug (Eara) Sydney 

Wangal " " Concord 

Burramattagal " " Parramatta 

Wallumattagal " " Ryde 

Muru-ora-dial : " Maroubra 

Kameygal " " Botany bay 

Birrabirragal " " Sydney Harbour 

Borogegal-yuruey " " Bradleys head 

Bediagal Dharug North of George's River 

Bidjigal " " Castle Hill 

Toogagal " " Toongabbie 

Cabrogal " " Cabramatta 

Boorooberongal " " Richmond 

Cannemegal " " Prospect 

Gomerigal-tongara " " South Creek 

Muringong " " Camden 

Cattai " " Windsor 

Kurrajong " " Kurrajong 

Bool-bain-ora " " Wentworthville 

Mulgoa " " Penrith 

Terramerragal Kuringgai Turramurra 

Cammeraigal " " Cammeray 

Carigal " " West Head 

Cannalgal " " Manly (Coast) 

Gorualgal " " Fig Tree Point 

Kayimai " " Manly (Harbour) 

Gweagal " " Kuruell 

Norongerragal " " South of George's River 

lllawarra " " Wollongong 

Threawal " " Bong Bong 

Tagary " " Royal National Park 

Wandeandegal " " Unknown 

Dry-ang-ora " " Unknown 

Goorungurragal " " Unknown 

21

Individual Bands or Clans were by no means a social or cultural isolate, but rather 

interacted with each other in a variety of ways. Typically, these interactions involved 

visitations, marriage, ceremonies and trade. Through these interactions, links were 

established or re-affirmed between neighbouring bands. The result being the formation of 

a cluster of bands, wherein there was some sense of collective identity, often expressed in 

terms of possessing a common and distinctive language. The collective term often used 

for such groups of Bands is the Tribe or language group. 

Analyses made of early linguistic recordings has led workers to the general conclusion 

that there were three major language groups (or Tribes) occupying the Sydney region at 

around the time of European contact (Capell 1970; Kohen 1985 ; 

Kohen & Lampert 1987). 

The Dharawal Language is believed to have been predominantly confined to the area 

south of Botany Bay, extending down the coast as far as the Nowra area and across to the 

George's River in the west. 

The Dharug, which was a closely related language to that of Dharawal, is reported as 

being spoken over a large area of the Cumberland Plain, from Appin to the Hawkesbury 

River and west through to the Blue Mountains. Following discussions will look at the 

controversial suggestion that the clans between Port Jackson and Botany Bay who 

referred to themselves as Eora, spoke a dialect of Dharug. 

A third language, Kuring-gai, was spoken in the area between the Lane Cove River and 

the coast, from the north shore of Port Jackson, across Broken Bay as far as Tuggerah 

Lake (Capell 1970; Kohen 1985; Kohen & Lampert 1987). 

Linguistic records show that there was a considerable degree of vocabulary shared by 

these three language groups. This fact alone is indicative that there was a degree of 

interaction between the people of the three linguistic groups. 

Linguistic workers have ascertained that within each language group, there were a 

number of differing dialects, which shared a common grammatical base, but varied 

slightly in vocabulary. The Dharug language, for example,'had two major dialects, that of 

22

the Eora or coastal people and that spoken by the people occupying the inland area from 

Parrarnatta to the Blue Mountains (Kohen & Lampert 1987). 

This model of pre-contact linguistic boundaries in the Sydney region is by no means 

undisputed. As Ross (1988) points out, there is considerable controversy regarding the 

composition and distribution of tribes (language groups) in the Sydney area at the time of 

first European contact. Ross (1988) argues quite convincingly that the linguistic data used 

by Kohen and other workers in developing their model of tribal (linguistic) boundaries in 

the Sydney region is questionable and potentially flawed. Most of this linguistic 

information was recorded in the late 1800's, early 1900's. A period when Aboriginal 

society had been severely disrupted by European occupation. Ross quite correctly argues 

that any pre-contact linguistic reconstruction based on data from this period of social 

upheaval in Aboriginal society, is bound to be flawed by inaccuracies. 

Of major concern to this report is the assertion of Capell (1970) and subsequently Kohen 

(1985) that the area between Port Jackson and Botany Bay, occupied by a group known 

as the Bora, was a dialect sub-group of the Dharug language group. 

Capell's (1970), and to some degree Kohen's (1985) assertion is based on the comparison 

oflinguistic data recorded in the late 1800's, early 1900's. 

Ross (1988) has drawn upon ethnohistoric information to develop a somewhat different 

model of group occupation in the Sydney region. Ross believes that ethnohistoric 

accounts from around the late 1700's, the period offirst contact between European and 

Aboriginal societies, indicate that the Dharug were a completely separate tribal group 

from the people living between Port Jackson and Botany Bay, the Bora (see Ross 1988 

for full discussion). 

It must be noted that several workers are critical of the common implication that the tribe 

or language group constituted a bounded cultural, linguistic and geographical unit, 

believing that this inaccurately portrays the social, political and linguistic complexities of 

the traditional Aboriginal society (Berndt 1964 ; Peterson 1976 ; White & Cane 1986). 

Peterson (1976) acknowledges that there are constraints on communication between 

neighbouring bands of lasting significance. For example, where topographic barriers are 

present, these will impose potential boundaries in the communication system, and as such 

23

wiJI contribute to the development ofbounded or partially bounded units. However, in 

the absence of such barriers, he believes that the boundaries of linguistic units will be iJI 

defined. This being the case, blurred boundaries to social and linguistic groups are to be 

considered inevitable (Peterson 1976). 

Bulbeck and Boot (1991) make a similar point, noting that rather than there being sharp 

linguistic boundaries within Australia, Aboriginal linguistic and social patterns appear to 

demonstrate stepped clining. Given this, a particular dialect may have been predominant 

over a substantial area, but it is rarely possible to circumscribe a cluster of bands that had 

complete linguistic homogeneity. 

6.3 The Pre-Contact Aboriginal Economy in the Sydney Region. 

As indicated in the beginning of this chapter, it would appear that the resource rich 

coastal zone of the Sydney region supported a relatively large Aboriginal population 

around the period of initial European contact. The early ethnohistoric accounts for the 

region indicate that these people had a predominantly coastal based economy. Collins 

(1798) reports : 

"Those who live on the sea coast depend entirely onfish for their subsistence". 

However, other early accounts reveal that the Aboriginal people of the coastal region did 

not rely solely on ocean resources. In Tench's account of the first six months of 

colonisation, he states: 

" (they) wholly dependfor food on the few fruits they gather; the roots they dig 

up in the swamps; and the fish they pick up along the shore, or contrive to strike 

from their canoes with spears. Fishing, indeed, seems to engross nearly the whole 

oftheir time, probablyfrom its forming the chiefpart oftheir subsistence" 

(Tench 1789) 

White (1790) provides a description of the spears used by the local people for obtaining 

fish. 

, Their spears are made ofa kind ofcane which grows out ofthe tree that 

produces the yellow gum; they are ten or twelve feet long, pointed and sometimes 

barbed with a piece ofthe same cane or the teeth offish. " 

24

Kohen and Lampert (1987) cite several accounts of the types hooks used by the local 

inhabitants for catching fish. These hooks are described as being made from the inside of 

the turban shell (Turbo torquata) which was broken into a ring, two or three centimetres 

in diameter, and then ground into a crescent shape. and notched at one end to attach the 

line. The line was made by twisting together long strands of the inner bark of trees. 

As reflected in the archaeological record for the region, the diet of fish was supplemented 

by a range of shellfish, obtained from the rock platforms and sandy beaches of the open 

coast and the mud flats of the estuaries (see Chapter 8 for further discussion). 

Other early accounts indicate that terrestrial fauna also constituted a component of the 

coastal Aborigines diet. Hunter for .example observes that; 

"The natives were employed in burning the grass on the shore opposite to Sydney, 

in order to catch rats and other animals...this is their constant practice in dry 

weather." (As cited by Kohen & Lampert 1987). 

Archaeological remains excavated from rockshelter sites around the Port Jackson 

Catchment include the bones of Kangaroos and other macropods, supporting these early 

observations. 

Kohen and Lampert (1987) contend that plant foods may also have been an important· 

component of the coastal Aborigines diet. They state that these plant foods were located 

in three major environmental zones. The steep sand stone gullies that lined the Harbour 

was rich in fruits such as figs and apple berries. In the swampy margins there were a 

range of aquatic and semi-aquatic plants with edible tubers. The sandstone country 

provided numerous flowers which contain sweet nectar. 

25

7.0 POST CONTACT ABORIGINAL SOCIETY 

The following section provides a general background on the Aboriginal post contact 

history of the Sydney region. This history is important for all Australians to know in 

order to gain an understanding of why those sites surviving today are of such great 

importance to Aboriginal people. 

Within a few years of the arrival ofthe European First Fleet Settlers, Aboriginal 

populations within the Sydney region were beginning to be severely effected either 

directly through aggression, or indirectly through the loss of resources and the 

introduction of diseases. 

It is reported that as early as May 1788, incidences of conflict had broken out between the 

two cultures. A report by Elder (1988) provides an early account of a convict working in 

the Sydney Cove area, who killed an Aboriginal man. As a reprisal for this murder, the 

local Aboriginal inhabitants killed two convicts working in the area known as 

Rushcutters Bay, these being William Okey and Samuel Davis (Elder 1988). 

In response to these initial outbreaks of violence, Governor Phillip advocated that 

Europeans working beyond the settlement should take a more cautious approach in 

dealing with the local inhabitants. However the temporary peace was short lived. A deep 

mutual mistrust had begun to develop between the two cultures, resulting in further 

bloodshed (Kohen & Lampert 1987). 

Much ofthis conflict centred around competition for the natural resources in the region. 

As Kohen (1985) points out, the influx of this large European population, and the rapid 

expansion of the colonies, led to a depletion of the natural resources available to the 

Aboriginal people. Not only were the natural resources ofthe region diminishing through 

increased harvesting, but Aboriginal people's access to the remaining resources was also 

severely restricted, as their land was taken over through colonisation. 

In the first phase of colonisation, the Aboriginal lands in and around the Sydney! 

Parramatta district was taken over and transformed for fanning purposes. Within a short 

period, the colonial settlement expanded out along the Hawkesbury and Georges River, 

eventually pushing into the Forested areas ofthe Cumberland Plain. By 1815, this 

colonial expansion had spread into the Illawarra and Hunter Valley districts. 

26

This expansion of the colonies was consolidated by force. Under the orders issued by 

Governor King in 1801, the Aboriginal groups gathered around Parramatta, the Georges 

River and Prospect Hill were to be "driven back from the settlers' habitations by firing at 

them". 

With these prime resource zones no longer available to the local Aboriginal inhabitants, 

the food quest became increasingly difficult. There are several accounts from around this 

period of Aboriginal people in the Sydney region seemingly dying from starvation. In 

desperation, Aboriginal groups are reported to have attempted raids upon European 

settlements in order to obtain food (Ganjoo & Fritis 1993). 

Within two years of the arrival of the First Reeters, there were reports of Small Pox 

having broken out in the Sydney area. For the local Aboriginal inhabitants, who had not 

been exposed to this disease before, the effects were severe. It is estimated that within a 

period of only two years, thousands of Aboriginal people occupying the Sydney region 

had died from this disease. A report by Collins in 1798 states that one of the clans 

occupying the Sydney area, the Cadigal Clan, was reduced from 60 people in 1788 to 

only three people in 1790 (Collins 1975). 

Other European diseases and viruses which severely afflicted the Aboriginal people in the 

Sydney region are venereal diseases and respiratory ailments such as influenza. 

Within 50 years of the Arrival of the First Fleet colonists, it is estimated that there were 

only 300 Aboriginal people still living in the Sydney region. These remnant survivors of 

the numerous clan groups which once occupied the region, joined together to form new 

groups. The survivors of the various clans around the Port Jackson area, combined to 

form what was known as the 'Sydney tribe. The main camp for this group was around the 

northern side of Sydney Harbour. The Aboriginal people around the southern shore 

joined to form the Botany Bay tribe, with their main camp area being around the heads at 

Botany. Other newly established groups in the area included the Kissing Point tribe and 

the Broken Bay tribe (Ganjoo & Fritis 1993). 

By the mid 1800's, the increasing spread of European settlement was having the same 

disastrous effects upon Aboriginal populations throughout the eastern coast region. As 

with the Sydney region, many of the surviving Aboriginal people in these areas were 

27

forced from their land. Others however chose to remain on their traditional land, and 

began taking up farming practices. These people, who were viewed by Europeans as 

squatters, petitioned the state government to restore some oftheir traditional lands to 

them (Ganjoo & Fritis 1993). 

In the period of the early 1880s, the Government was establishing a board to oversee 

Aboriginal people (The Aborigines Protection Board). Among other tasks, this board took 

responsibility for addressing the land petitions made by Aboriginal people. In many 

instances their response to these petitions was to proclaim select areas as reserves, where 

Aboriginal people could live and farm the land. One such reserve was established at La 

Perouse. Throughout the period of disruption to Aboriginal society, a small group of local 

clan descendants had remained living at La Perouse. This group was frequently bolstered 

by visiting Aboriginal people from the south coast, who had set up semi-permanent 

camps along the shore of Botany Bay. The land along the La Perouse beach was 

eventually given as a grant to one of these descendants, Emma Timbery. In 1883 the La 

Perouse area was officially recognised as a Government reserve, and came to be known 

as 'Aborigines Camp' (LAC 1988). 

By 1900, 114 Aboriginal reserves had been created, over half of which were in response 

to Aboriginal petitions for land. The remainder were established to satisfy European 

demands for the containment and segregation ofAboriginal communities around towns 

(Goodalll99l). 

In the early 1900s, there was increasing pressure placed on Government to take back 

Aboriginal reserve lands throughout the State. Much ofthis pressure was being directed 

from the European working class community, who themselves were demanding land 

settlements with Government. In response to these pressures, the Aboriginal Protection 

Board did a turn offace on it's policy of supporting Aboriginal self sufficiency on 

reserves. In the period between 1911 to 1927, independent and productive Aboriginal 

reserves were closed down inorder to facilitate European town expansions. Of the 27000 

acres of reserve land established by 1911, 13 000 acres had been reclaimed by 1927. The 

majority of this reclaimed land was located along the fertile eastern coast (Ganjoo & 

Fritis 1993). 

On the remaining reserves, the Aboriginal Protection board installed resident European 

managers. Under the direction of the Protection Board, many ofthese managers 

28

attempted to impose stringent rules on the Aboriginal populations occupying the reserves. 

In addition, they began implementing a policy ofremoving Aboriginal children from the 

reserves, as soon as reached the age of puberty. These children were sent out to European 

residents, to act as domestic servants (Ganjoo & Fritis 1993). 

i' 

29

8.0 PREVIOUS ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH IN THE PORT JACKSON 

CATCHMENT AREA 

Archaeological investigations in the Port Jackson Catchment area commenced almost as 

soon as Europeans arrived in the region. The nature of these investigations may be 

summarised under two main headings. 

\) Excavation and collection. 

2) Field survey and site recording. 

8.1 Excavation and Collection 

The first reported excavation in the Sydney region occurred in April 1788, when 

Governor Arthur Phillip ordered the excavation of a burial mound located along one of 

the branches of Middle Harbour. This excavation was part of an investigation undertaken 

by Phillip as to the life and customs ofthe Aboriginal people living in the area at the time 

(Attenbrow 1990). 

During the 19th century and early 20th century, numerous excavations ofAboriginal sites 

were undertaken in the Sydney region. As Attenbrow (1990) comments, the methods 

used in these excavations were inadequate by today's standards, with little or no 

recordings or documentation ofthe findings having been made There were however a few 

exceptions. David, a professor of Geology and Etheridge a Palaeontologist, were 

involved in a number of excavations of Aboriginal sites in the Sydney region, the results 

of which were published in scientific journals (See Attenbrow 1990). All of these sites 

are located just outside the Port Jackson Catchment area. 

In the 1960's Australian Archaeology / Prehistory became established as a discipline in 

Australia. This heralded a dramatic increase in the number of excavations undertaken in 

the Sydney Region, the majority of which were published. 

Since the 1960's eight Aboriginal sites have been excavated in the Port Jackson 

Catchment area. The majority ofthese excavations were undertaken as part of 

management or salvage programs, as opposed to academic research purposes The 

exception is the Balls Head excavation (Miles 1964 ; Bowdler 197\). 

Of these eight excavation projects, reports have been published for only two midden sites, 

Balls Head (Miles 1964; Bowdler 1971) and Bantry Bay (Ross and Specht 1976). 

30

Dates from excavated material have been obtained from two sites. At Bantry Bay, a 

charcoal sample obtained from the base of an excavated midden, produced a basal date of 

4520± 100 years bp (SUA-593), which when calibrated dated to 4 070 ± 105 years bp 

(Ross & Specht 1976). At Reef Beach, a shell sample which was collected during the 

salvage of skeletal remains, produced an uncalibrated date of 1 ISO ± 90 years bp (SUA 

401) (O'Donnell & Walker 1982). 

8.2 Field Surveys and Site Recordings 

Prior to 1970, the majority of information available for Aboriginal Sites in NSW had 

been recorded by interested members of the general public. These people tended to focus 

upon the more easily recognised site types such as paintings and rock engravings. Site 

types such as middens and deposits were generally overlooked. The main exception being 

the work conducted by Rosemary Taplin, who, in the 1960's recorded over 100 midden 

and deposit sites. 

Much of the site information recorded by people in the Sydney area, before 1970, was 

submitted to the Australian Museum. This information was in tum placed into an index..of 

archaeological sites, which had been established by P.O. McCarthy (then Curator of the. 

Australian Museum). Unfortunately, the information provided for sites was usually very 

brief and generalised. 

In 1969 the first National Parks and Wildlife Act was passed, which included a provision 

for the protection of Aboriginal sites (NPWS Act, No.35). The passing of this Act 

provided the basis for the establishment of the NPWS Sites Register. Any information 

previously recorded for sites was placed onto site record cards, for inclusion on the 

register. This included the information collated by the Australian Museum. The NSW 

Sites Register, which is maintained by the NPWS, is now the major source of information 

for archaeological sites recorded in NSW. 

Attenbrow (1990) reports that in mid 1988 there were 437 sites recorded on the Sites 

Register for the Port Jackson Catchment area. In analysing the available information for 

these sites, Attenbrow (1990) was able to determine that 56% (246 sites) were registered 

as being middens or deposits. Paintings or engravings accounted for 48% of the sites. 4% 

of sites were recorded as grinding grooves, while the remainder of sites were either 

31

urials, scarred trees, or water holes. (N.B. Attenbrow mentions that some rockshelter 

sites also have middens and paintings. Hence the fact that percentages do not add up to 

100. 

Of particular interest to this project are the shell middens and art sites recorded in this 

area. 

8.3 Shell Middens and Deposit Sites 

In the past decade there has been several research projects focusing on the analysis of the 

data recorded for middens and deposits. Two of the more in depth studies of this nature 

are that of Hawthorne (1982) and Attenbrow (1990). 

As part of her BA (Hons) Thesis, Hawthorne (1982) analysed the site location data for 

sites identified on the northern side of Port Jackson, between Gladesville and French's 

Forest. From this analyses, Hawthorne (1982) was able to identify the following broad 

locational trends for midden and deposit sites. 

Middens in rockshelters tend to be located near the littoral zone, with 96% occurring 

within 100m of the littoral zone, and 53% within 10m ofthis zone. Rockshelter middens 

tended to occur close to freshwater sources and were predominantly facing in a northerly 

direction. These sites also tended to occur most frequently in areas near mud flats (34%) 

and rock platforms (32.5%), with 21% being located high on hill sides and 12.5% 

adjacent to bays and sandy beaches (Hawthorne 1982). 

With regard to open shell middens (middens not associated with rockshelters) Hawthorne 

(1982) reports that they most commonly occur on or adjacent to rock platforms. The vast 

majority of open middens were located within 10m of the littoral zone (77%). The 

maximum elevation of these sites above the littoral zone was 30m, with the majority 

(71%) occurring below an elevation of Sm. There was a slight trend for open middens to 

be facing in a northerly orientation. 

In the analysis of the contents of shell middens, Hawthorne (1982) not surprisingly found 

that the shellfish content ofmiddens reflects the local environment. Those middens 

located near the open sea contain coast rock platform species, while those in estuarine 

areas contain a few species of estuarine shellfish. 

32

As mentioned previously, in mid 1988 there were 246 midden and deposit sites recorded 

on the Sites Register for the Port Jackson Catchment area. By 1990, Attenbrow (1990) 

reports that the number of midden and deposit sites identified in the Port Jackson 

Catchment had increased to 369. Attenbrow herself recorded 35 of these additional sites, 

as part of her field work undertaken between 1988 & 1989 (Attenbrow 1990). 

Of the 369 midden and deposit sites, 126 are classified as open middens, 203 are middens 

in rockshelters, six are open middens associated with small rockshelters, 27 are deposits 

in rockshelters and 7 are open deposits (open artefact scatters). Interestingly, 45 of the 

middens and deposits in rockshelters are associated with art (Attenbrow 1990). 

In the report on stage 1 of the Port Jackson Archaeological Project, Attenbrow (1990) 

presents the following findings based on the analysis of the available data for these sites. 

The majority of registered middens and deposits are located in the estuarine reaches of 

Port Jackson and it's tributaries. No middens were recorded in the fresh water zones of 

Port Jackson, however there were 25 deposit sites recorded in the fresh water zones. 

Of the 369 midden and deposit sites registered to date, 229 (62%) occur along the 

foreshore zone, within 10m of the high water level. 81 sites (22%) are located on the" 

sides of ridges, while only three sites (1 %) have been recorded on ridgetops. There was 

not sufficient information to determine the environmental setting for 56 sites (15%). 

Attenbrow (1990) suggests that this general pattern of site location may be a reasonably 

accurate reflection of the distribution of sites prior to European occupation. It is however 

acknowledged that the proportion of midden and deposit sites on the ridge sides may be 

presently under-represented to some degree in the Port Jackson Catchment. 

Attenbrow (1990) acknowledges that the analysis ofthe contents of shell middens and 

deposit sites located in the Port Jackson Catchmentis still in the preliminary stages. 

However, the work undertaken up until 1990 had revealed several general trends in terms 

of site content. 

An analysis of shell material revealed that Rock oysters (Saccostrea cucullata / S. 

commercialis) and/or the Sydney cockle (Anadara trapezia) predominated at the majority 

of midden sites located in the estuarine zones. Other species commonly represented at 

33

these sites are the Hairy mussel (Trichomya hirsuta), Hercules whelk (Pyrazus ebeninus) 

, Mud oyster (Ostrea angasi), Spiny oyster (Chama fibula), the Wink (Bembicum 

auratum) and the Australian hom shell (Velacumantus australis). 

With those middens located near the open sea, Attenbrow (1990) reports that there were 

numerous species represented in the shell debris. The species which made up the large 

proportion of the debris in most of these middens was Black nerita (Nerita atramentosa), 

Spengler's triton (Cabestana spengleri), Limpets (particularly Cellana tramoserica) and 

the large Heavy Turban (Turbo torquatus). 

Attenbrow (1990) believes that the evidence from some of the excavated sites indicates 

that Aboriginal people were col1ecting shellfish around the harbour foreshores at least 4 

.500 years ago, and that in some instances there is evidence to suggest there was change 

over time in the predominance of particular shellfish species that was eaten. 

Attenbrow (1990) notes the presence of stone artefacts at numerous midden and deposit 

sites. For the majority of sites (71%) less than 10 artefacts were reported. The highest 

numbers of artefacts were recorded at two excavated middens, Balls Head (450 artefacts) 

and Balls Head (392 artefacts). No mention is made as to the range of material types 

represented in the assemblages, however numerous tool types were identified (Attenbrow 

1990). 

More than half of the middens and deposits recorded in the Port Jackson Catchment 

(PJC) are reported as having been disturbed to some degree. The most commonly cited 

agent of disturbance was natural erosion which had affected 206 sites (56%). Other 

common agencies of disturbance include foot traffic through sites (23%), camping I 

picnic activity (24%), landscaping (16.5%) and vegetation (10.5%) (Attenbrow 1990). 

Attenbrow (1990) rated the condition of the majority of the midden and deposit sites 

recorded in the (PJC). The rating of the condition of these sites was based on the surface 

evidence available at the time of the recording of sites. Fifty eight sites (16%) are 

recorded as totally or highly disturbed, 31% were regarded as being partially disturbed, as 

there was likely to be some in situ deposit present. Twenty percent of sites were classified 

as undisturbed or relatively undisturbed, with four middens having been almost entirely 

covered by roof fall which protects these sites from further disturbance. 

34

Attenbrow (1990) has also rated the research and excavation potential ofmidden and 

deposit sites in the PIC, in accordance with her own research aims, which is the analysis 

of information regarding the land and aquatic animals eaten by Aboriginal people, the 

raw materials utilised for tools and weapons, and changes that took'place over time with 

these two variables (see Attenbrow 1990 for full details). A total of 186 sites (51%) were 

considered to have poor research potential, while 63 sites (17%) were classified as having 

excellent or good research potential. With regard to excavation potential, 67 sites were 

deemed to have excellent potential, while 195 sites were considered to have poor 

excavation potential. There was not enough available information to assess the research 

potential for 69 sites and the excavation potential for 67 sites (Attenbrow 1990). 

8.4 Rock Art Sites Across the Sydney Basin 

Since the 1930's there has been a great deal of archaeological research focusing on the 

Aboriginal art forms present in the Sydney Region. One of the most recent and most 

comprehensive of these studies is that of McDonald (1990). The overall aim of 

McDonald's project was to define the nature and extent of art sites in the Sydney Basin in 

order to facilitate the development of a framework for site assessment and management. 

The project was undertaken in three stages. In stage 1 a detailed assessment was 

undertaken of the NPWS site data base. In Stage 2 McDonald made a detailed field 

recording of selected shelter art sites from the central and north-western regions of the 

Sydney Basin. This was done in order to quantify the variations perceived in the Stage 1 

analysis. Stage 3 entailed a brieffield recording program to upgrade the statistical sample 

size of rock engraving sites, followed by a statistical analysis of the expanded data base 

(McDonald (1990). 

The boundaries of McDonald's study area was defined as the geological extent of the 

Hawkesbury Sandstone within the Sydney Basin. The area is estimated to be over 

17 OOOsq km (McDonald 1990). At the time of completion of her study, McDonald states 

that there were just over 3 500 art sites identified in this region. This represents over 55% 

of the entire archaeological resource documented in the region. Given the fact that only a 

small percentage of the region has been subjected to systematic survey, McDonald 

postulates that there could be over 100 000 shelter art sites and 200 000 engraving sites in 

the Sydney Basin (McDonald 1990). 

35

Based on the limited systematic survey work completed to date, McDonald (1990) 

tentatively suggests that the distribution of known sites indicates that the density of both 

art forms varies across the region. This may however be the result of recorder / sample 

bias (McDonald 1990). 

With regard to shelter art sites, there does not appear to be a dramatic variation in site 

densities across the region. The vast majority of these sites are located within sandstone 

overhangs or shelters, on hill slopes or just above creeklines. McDonald (1990) suggests 

that drinking water may be an important criteria for site location with the average 

distance of sites to water being approximately 250m. 

The average number of motifs at shelter art sites in the region is 26 motifs per site. The 

majority of sites contain less than ten motifs, with 31 sites having only one motif. The 

largest site in the region, Swinston's contains 857 motifs (McDonald 1990). 

Approximately 25% of shelter art sites in the region contain occupational deposit in the 

form of shell and/or artefactual material. Other less frequently recorded associations with 

shelter art sites include grinding grooves, stone arrangements, open engraving sites and 

burials. 

McDonald (1990) identifies three major types of pigment applications in the region, these 

being dry and wet manual application (drawing and painting) and stencilling. The 

production of depictive motifs by the application of dry pigment is reported as the most 

common style, followed by stencilling, while painting is quite rare. 

The motifs produced by the depictive techniques are predominantly figurative and take 

several forms including outline, solid, and outline with infill . The most commonly 

depicted motifs are of macropods, anthropomorphs and other land animals and birds. 

Marine depictions are reported to be quite rare, in comparison with their dominance in the 

engraved assemblage. The predominant colours used in depictive motifs is black, 

followed by red, white and yellow. The proportion of colour usage varies through the 

region. In the north-west, there is more of a usage ofthe white pigment, the yellow 

pigment is very common around the Mangrove Creek area, while the black pigment 

predominates in the art south ofthe Georges river (McDonald 1990). 

36

Stencil fonus are predominantly of hands and hand variations including wrists, forearms 

and closed fists. Stencils of feet, material objects (ie boomerangs, axes, clubs etc), parts 

of animals (ie macropods' feet, fish tails etc) and floral items (ferns, leaves etc) have also 

been recorded. McDonald notes that in tenus ofmotif preference, localised variability 

through the region does occur. Stencilling is predominantly done with red or white 

pigment, although black and yellow stencils have been recorded. McDonald notes that on 

a regional basis it is possible to identify a distinctive decline in the presence of stencilling 

through from the north to the south of the region (McDonald 1990). 

With regard to schematic differences within the assemblage, the Georges River appears to 

be a delineation marker. South of this border, quadrupeds are depicted with four legs, 

echidnae are depicted in plan as "pelts" as opposed to in profile and many 

anthropomorphic motifs are shown with their heads in profile and in "active" positions 

(McDonald 1990). 

37

9.0 PREVIOUS ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH IN THE PROJECT 

AREAS 

There are currently eight Aboriginal sites within the Leichhardt Municipality listed on the 

NSW NPWS Sites register (NPWS Minark printout). There has however, reportedly been 

other potential Aboriginal sites identified within the Leichhardt Municipality. As 

mentioned in the Introduction of this report, eight Aboriginal sites or potential sites have 

been identified within the two study areas. Outside the two study areas Guider has 

recorded a midden site at White Horse Point (NPWS Site Number 45-8-1900) and a rock 

shelter I midden site containing rock art (NPWS Site Number 45-8-1809) at 20 River St, 

Birchgrove. 

9.1 Callan Point (Rozelle Hospital) 

Five of the reported sites in the Leichhardt Municipality are located at Callan Point, on 

the grounds of the Rozelle hospital. All of these sites, which were identified by a number 

of researchers (Attenbrow, Corkhill, Guider, Smith) are described as middens or potential 

middens. 

The NSW NPWS Aboriginal Sites Register currently lists five recorded sites at Callan 

Point (within the Rozelle Hospital grounds). These are recorded as: 

* Midden I Rock engraving (NPWS Site Number 45-6-0618) 

* Midden (NPWS Site Number 45-6-148l) 

* Shelter I Midden (NPWS Site Number 45-6-1971) 



In June 1991, an inspection of the Callan Point area, was undertaken by Dr Val 

Attenbrow, an archaeologist from the Australian Museum. Attenbrow concluded from 

this inspection that only two of the Aboriginal sites recorded in the area were definitively 

sites. The other three potential sites would require further investigation before any 

conclusions could be made as to their status. Guider, in a site inspection at Callan Point 

with Metropolitan Land Council representatives in 1990, reported to NPWS that they 

doubted whether recorded Site 45-6-1481 (NPWS Site) was actually a site. 

38

Of the two confirmed midden sites, Val Attenbrow indicated that she believed one site 

was of particular importance. This site (NPWS Site Number 45-6-283) is located just 

above the highwater mark, on the north-east side of Callan point, adjoining King George 

Park. It is described as a shell midden which lies underneath a low rock shelter. The roof 

of the shelter has collapsed. covering the majority of the midden area. This fortuitous 

event has resulted in the midden having been relatively well preserved from recent 

disturbance processes. 

Because of it's well preserved nature, Attenbrow considered this midden to be one of the 

most important Aboriginal sites (from an archaeological perspective) remaining on the 

southern shores of Sydney Harbour, and as such was rated as a high priority for future 

excavation. 

The other confirmed midden site (NPWS Site Number 45-6-0618) in the area is situated 

above the cliff line, right on the pinnacle of Callan Point. Attenbrow considered that this 

midden site was likely to be a very shallow deposit, and somewhat disturbed in nature. 

The midden site lies nearby to European rock engravings. 

Dr Attenbrow provided the Leichhardt Council with a series of management 

recommendations for the sites located in this area. These include: 

- There should be no clearing, excavation, development, or planting in the Callan Point 

area without prior consultation with herself, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife 

Service (NPWS) and the Metropolitan Land Council. 

- Re-vegetation was considered to be a good protective measure for the midden sites. 

- Interpretive signs for the sites should be established in the area. 

- Access tracks in the vicinity of the point need to be restricted, in order to reduce 

potential impacts on the sites. Access tracks should be confined either to the shoreline, or 

high up on the cliff line. 

In 1990 a Heritage Study of the Rozelle Hospital was commissioned by the Special 

Projects Section of the NSW Public Works Department. This study was undertaken by 

39

several employees of the Environmental Design Section of the Public Works Department 

(PWD). 

The report, documenting the findings of this study, identifies Callan Point as being 

significant on a number of levels. These include: 

- The areas aesthetic and historic value as a rare surviving example of the pre-European 

foreshore in Iron Cove; 

- The presence of relics ofAboriginal habitation in a natural setting; 

- The presence of European rock carvings. 

(NSW PWD 1991) 

The same report also provides a series of recommendations specifically directed towards 

the conservation and management of the Aboriginal sites located at the point. These are: 

- Carry out an archaeological investigation, prior to any future disturbance in the area; 

- Any disturbance of, or near Aboriginal sites (such as clearing, re-vegetation, demolition 

or construction) must be approved by the NPWS in accordance with the NPWS Act 1974; 

- Advice should be sought from the Metropolitan LALC regarding site management; 

- The introduction of interpretive signs for Aboriginal and European heritage sites; 

- The existing access tracks crossing some middens should be discreetly hidden through 

general re-vegetation works, using indigenous species. 

Beyond these specific recommendations for the Aboriginal sites, the report also makes 

the general recommendation that the whole of the Callan Point be the subject of a detailed 

conservation plan. This plan would form the basis for specific conservation and design 

guidelines and for the development of continuing maintenance programs. 


40

'. 

Mr Michael Guider (the pre-mentioned member ofthe public) has identified a rock 

shelter / midden / art site (NPWS Site Number 45--6-2287) and two potential midden / 

rock shelter sites, all located along the north-west shoreline of Yurulbin Point. 

In June 1991, an inspection of these sites was undertaken by Mr Guider, Mr Carr (Sites 

Officer with the Metropolitan LALC) and Mr Hawken and Bruce Lay from the 

Leichhardt Council. The purpose of this inspection was to clarify the location of these 

sites and to obtain advise from Mr Carr and Mr Guider as to the significance values and 

appropriate conservation measures for the sites. 

The following details for these sites comes from the Leichhardt Council report on this 

inspection, submitted by Bruce Lay. 

All of the sites identified at Yurulbin Point are located just above the former shoreline or 

high water mark. As such, they lie within private property, rather than in the MSB owned 

reclamations. 

The art site identified in this area is located on the property of No.9 Numa Street. Below 

the cliff line on this property is a low shallow rock shelter, in which Mr Michael Guider 

has detected several hand stencils and a charcoal outline of a shark. Guider is of the 

opinion that these stencils were made by a greased hand and the application of a white 

ochre spray. The stencils are reported by Guider to be barely discernible, due to fading 

and the weathering of the sandstone. In the same shelter, a small scatter of shell was also 

identified. The shell is reported to be dispersed, and sparse. 

At the time of the inspection, some graffiti was noted on the shelter wall, as well as 

evidence offires having been recently lit within the shelter. In light of this, the 

investigating party were concerned that these sites may be subject to damage if protective 

measures aren't undertaken in the near future. 

On the same property, below the cliff line adjoining Numa Street, another potential 

midden / rock shelter site has been identified. Again, the shell contained in this midden is 

described as being sparse and dispersed. 

On an adjacent property, 144 Louisa Road, a third potential midden site has been 

identified. The site is described as being a substantial concentration of shell, located 

41

underneath the over hang of a cliff. A natural spring has also been identified at the 

shelter, which would provide a semi-permanent source offresh water. It is reported that 

there has been some disturbance of the site through the levelling of the ground for the 

installation of seats etc. Nonetheless, Guider considered this site to be the most important 

Aboriginal occupation site still remaining in Balmain. 

Mr Carr stated that he was in favour of allowing public access to the sites in this area. He 

also supported the installation of interpretive signs and the establishment of guided 

Aboriginal tours for the sites, as an educational measure. He did however advise that 

protective measures may need to be taken in order to prevent further disturbance to the 

sites. 

Mr Bruce Lay from the Leichhardt Council has also expressed his support for the 

implementation of these protective measures. 

Although not within the designated project areas, it is worth noting that Michael Guider 

has also recorded an Aboriginal art site approximately 3km to the south west ofYurulbin 

Point, at 20 River Street, Birchgrove (previously mentioned NPWS Site Number 45-6 

1809). Several hand stencils were recorded at this site, which has subsequently been 

destroyed by development in 1990. Mr Lay has advised that the Leichhardt Council was 

unaware of the existence of the site prior to it being destroyed. 

42

10.0 FIELD WORK METHODOLOGY 

The field work Methodology adopted for this project varied according to the specific 

nature and requirements of each site investigated. One of the major factors which 

influenced the decision to adopt a given approach towards sites was the expressed wishes 

of the representatives of the Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council. Mary and Jenny Coe 

were consulted as to the possible approaches which may be adopted for each site, the 

objectives which could be achieved by selecting such an approach and the potential 

impact that each approach may have upon a site. 

Section 3.2 of the report lists the details to be recorded when recording sites. 

The following outlines the methodological approach adopted for each site and the reasons 

why this particular approach was decided upon. 


Two main sites had previously been positively identified at Callan Point, on the grounds 

of the Rozelle Hospital. The first of these was a rockshelter / shell midden located down 

at the sandy cove at Callan Point. The second site is an open midden located on the 

headland at Callan Point. 

The possibility of excavating one or both of these middens was raised with Mary and 

Jenny Coe. Both Mary and Jenny were adamant that from the Land Council's perspective, 

this was not the preferred option at this stage. They both felt that the two middens were 

relatively stable at this point in time and as such it was not necessary to destroy the site 

through excavation. The preferred option from their perspective was to accurately record 

both sites and to establish management recommendations which would ensure that the 

sites remain in a stable condition. 

They did not rule out the possibility of excavating one or both of these sites at a later 

stage. 

From an archaeological perspective we would concur with this view. Where midden and 

deposit sites are not under immediate threat of damage or destruction, conservation rather 

43

than excavation is the preferred option to be adopted. The exception to this, is where the 

excavation of such sites may provide valuable information for regional research 

investigations. Val Attenbrow is currently undertaking research as to the nature of pre 

contact Aboriginal occupation in the Port Jackson Catchment. As part of this 

investigation, Attenbrow has excavated numerous middens in the catchment area. The 

possibility of excavating the midden sites at Callan Point may be justified in the future, as 

part of this investigation. 

The approach deCided upon for the midden sites at Callan point was to document the 

location and surface contents of each site, and to identify management options which 

would ensure the continued conservation of each site. 

A surface survey of the entire area comprising Callan Point was also undertaken to 

ascertain if there were any additional archaeological material present which had not been 

previously identified. Transects were walked throughout the study area. Given the poor 

surface visibility within the study area, these transects focused primarily upon areas of 

existing surface exposure, such as selected graded tracks, walking tracks etc. 

Maps and photos of the area are included as a supplement to the written record. 


At Yurulbin Point two rockshelters and one previously identified rock shelter I art site 

had been selected for AASC to investigate. All three site areas are located within 100m of 

each other. 

Although no artefactual material had been identified at the two rockshelters, given their 

close proximity to the rock art site, it was expected that there was a high likelihood of 

sub-surface artefactual material being present at both sites. 

Mary and Jenny Coe were both consulted regarding the possibility of either excavating 

one or both of these rockshelters, or test pitting one or both of the shelters to establish the 

presence or absence of artefactual material. Again, they indicated that this was not the 

preferred option of the Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council. Given the potential for 

sub-surface artefactual material being present at both sites, and the relatively stable 

condition of both sites, it was suggested that at this stage a detailed recording of both 

44

shelters would be the preferred option. This could be supplemented with the provision of 

management recommendations for both shelters. 

At a later stage of the project, John Clegg, Nicholas Hall and Katherine Sale (all 

archaeologists and rock art specialists) were taken on a site inspection of the area. All 

three workers agreed with the sentiments of Mary and Jenny Coe, regarding the suggested 

approach to the two rockshelters. 

From an archaeological perspective, AASC were also in agreement with this suggestion. 

As previously stated for the sites at Callan Point, where deposit sites (or potential deposit 

sites) are not under immediate threat of damage or destruction, conservation rather than 

excavation is the preferred option to be adopted. 

Again, the exception to this is where the excavation of such sites may provide valuable 

information for regional research investigations. The possibility may be available for 

these two shelters to be subjected to sub-surface testing as part of Val Attenbrow's on 

going research in the region. 

The approach decided upon for the two rockshelters was to accurately plot the 

dimensions of the shelters, to note the locality and environmental setting of the shelters 

and to provide management recommendations to ensure their future conservation. Any 

artefactual evidence located would also be recorded. Photos and maps accompany the 

written documentation. 

With regard to the rock art site, Mary and Jenny Coe had no particular concerns regarding 

the methodology employed in recording these sites. They did however express concern 

that the site be conserved. 

As mentioned previously, AASC invited John Clegg, Nicholas Hall and Katherine Sale to 

make an inspection of the rock art site at Yurulbin Point, with the purpose of gaining 

advice as to possible recording procedures and management options which may be 

adopted for this site. Given the difficulty in visualising the stencils on the shelter wall, 

AASC employed the specialist skills of Katherine Sale to carry out this recording. 

The proposed management options are outlined in Chapter 13 of this report 

45

11.0 RESULTS I DISCUSSION FOR CALLAN POINT 

As mentioned in Chapter 9 of this report, two midden sites had previously been positively 

identified at Callan Point. The first of these is an open midden site located on the 

headland of Callan Point (NPWS Site Number 45-6-0618). The second is a shelterI 

midden site located in a sandy bay below the east cliffs of the headland (NPWS Site 

Number 45-6-283). 

11.1 The Open Midden Site (NPWS Site Number 45-6-Q(18) 

In the course of the survey of the immediate headland at Callan Point, AASC located and 

recorded three main concentrations of shell debris (See Diagram I; Plate 1). 

The first of these is a concentration of shell approximately 205m x 1m which is eroding 

out of a small grass slope on the centre of the headland (See Plate 2). The depth ofthe 

shell deposit appears to be quite shallow (between 5-20cm). Rock oyster shell dominates 

the shell deposit, with no other species noted. 

The second concentration of shell material is located approximately 7m north-east of 

concentration 1. It is a 1m x 1m concentration of shell material which is eroding out of a 

grass bank on the eastern edge of the headland (See Plate 3). Again the shell deposit 

appears to be quite shallow (between 5-20cm). The Rock oyster was the only shellfish 

species represented in the debris. 

Concentration 3 is located at the basal eastern slopes of the headland, approximately 12m 

east of concentration 2. The dimensions of the concentration are 4m x 3m and varies in 

depth from 5-15cm. Two shellfish species were noted in this deposit, the Rock oyster and 

the Sydney cockle, with the Rock oyster predominating. 

On the slope leading from concentration 2 down to concentration 3, shell was noted 

scattered over an area approximately 10m x 1m (See Plate 4). 

Given the close proximity of shell concentrations 1 and 2, we would suggest that they are 

both part of the one open midden site. The Callan Point headland is quite heavily grassed 

and it is therefore likely that the remainder of the midden site is presently obscured by 

46

617

vegetative cover. The extent of the site at this stage, is unknown. But based on the 

distance between the two concentrations we can estimate the minimum site dimensions as 

being 7m x 2m. 

We would suggest that Concentration 3 is a build up of shell which has eroded out of the 

open shell midden on the headland, and has washed down the slope to collect among the 

rocks at the basal slopes (See Plate 5). This would also explain the scatter of shell noted 

on the slopes between concentration 2 and 3. 

No stone artefactual material was found in direct association with the shell 

concentrations. However, two shells of the Sydney cockle species displayed signs of 

possible usewear along their edges. It is possible that both of these shells had been 

utilised as cutting implements (See Plate 6). 

In terms of site location and site content, this open shell midden comorms with the trend 

established by both Hawthorne (1982) and Attenbrow (1990) for middens in the region. 

As with the vast majority of middens recorded in the Port Jackson Catchment, this site is 

located in the estuarine reaches of Port Jackson, within IO-15m of the high water level, at 

an elevation below 10m ASL. The predominant shell species noted at this site, are the 

same which have been noted for the majority of sites throughout the PJC, these being the 

Rock oyster and the Sydney cockle. 

Attenbrow notes that more than half of the middens and deposits recorded in the Port 

Jackson Catchment (PJC) are reported as having been disturbed to some degree. The 

most commonly cited agent of disturbance was natural erosion which had affected (56%) 

of sites and foot traffic through 23% of sites. 

The open midden site at Callan Point suffers from both these forms of disturbance. A 

worn track, resulting from consistent foot traffic, runs from the northern basal slopes of 

the headland up between shell concentrations I and 2. If, as we assume, these two 

concentrations are part of the one open midden site, then this track runs straight through 

the middle of this site. A branch of this track runs down the eastern slopes of the 

headland to the area where shell concentration 3 is located. Again, this track is the result 

of consistent foot traffic. The remainder of the headland is covered with vegetation, 

which has consolidated the shallow soil deposit of this area. There appears however, to 

50

Plilieo: Possi6lesnelftoolSIdentified in shell concentration 3 (Callan Point). 

51

have been no immediate development at this site which would suggest that the midden 

material present is not authentic or has been relocated from a totally different area. 

A sandstone platform with European engravings is situated a little distance upslope from 

the site. 

11.2 The Shelter Midden Site (NPWS Site Number 45-6-283) 

The shelter / midden site is located in a small bay, at the base of the sand stone cliffs 

which delineates the area between the Callan Point headland and King George Park. It is 

situated right on the high tide mark, facing in a northerly direction. 

The sand stone rock shelter (in which the midden is located) is 7.5 m in length, with a 

maximum height of approximately 1.6m and a maximum depth of approximately 2.6m 

(See Diagram 2 ; Plate 7). 

A portion of the roof of the shelter, measuring 2.5m in length and 1.6m in maximum 

width, has collapsed, covering the majority of the floor at the rear of the shelter. 

Midden deposit was noted as covering the entire floor area of the rockshelter. This 

deposit slanted down at an angle of approximately 10 degrees, from the rear of the shelter 

to the front. The exact depth of this deposit is unknown, however it would appear to be 

greater than l5cm, judging from a stratigraphic sequence that is present in the deposit at 

the rear of the shelter (See Plate 8). 

The midden deposit in the front section of the shelter is fairly disturbed and 

unconsolidated. Shell material in this section is presently eroding down the slope, to the 

front of the shelter. Glass, plastic containers, broom handles and other pieces of rubbish 

were noted in the front section of the shelter, as were dog prints, providing an indication 

as to the types of disturbance activity the shelter area is subject to. 

Much of the midden deposit in the rear section of the shelter is consolidated and is 

protected from disturbance by the large slab of roof fall which lays on top of the deposit 

in this section. 

An analysis of the surface material of the shelter deposit resulted in the identification of 

four different shellfish species represented in the assemblage. The rock oyster again was 

52

the predominant shell type. followed by the Sydney cockle. The Sydney mussel and 

Terrebralia were also noted. but in much smaller quantities. 

Other material noted in the deposit was several different types of fish bone. and 3 pieces 

of red ochre (See Plate 9). 

Plate 9 : Material present onsuna.ce of midden in theroCK sliilfer(CalIanPofitfTRozelfe 

Hospital). 

55

Again, this shelter/midden conforms well with the trends of site location and site content 

established by Hawthorne (1982) and Attenbrow (1990) for this site type in the region. 

As with the majority of these site types in the Port Jackson Catchment, the shelter faces in 

a northerly direction, it is within 10m of the high tide mark, and the shell deposit 

predominantly consists of Rock oyster and the Sydney cockle. 

11.3 Other Finds in the Callan Point Area 

A survey of the remainder of the Callan Point area resulted in the identification of one 

other scatter of shell material and an isolated stone artefact. 

The scatter of shell material is located on top of the sand stone cliffs, on the eastern edge 

of Callan Point, adjacent to King George Park. Shell was noted eroding out of the grassed 

area, 9m x 1m, onto the sand stone edge of the cliff. The rock oyster was the only shell 

species noted in this scatter (See Plate 10). 

It is possible that this scatter of shell material is part of an open shell midden site. The 

area in the immediate vicinity of this shell scatter is heavily grassed, and it is probable 

that this vegetative cover is obscuring additional shell material. The extent of this 

possible open midden site is unknown. However, it is likely that the depth of the deposit 

is quite shallow, given that the sandstone base is evident outcropping on the surface 

throughout the area. 

The area in question has been affected by prior disturbance activity. All of this area has 

been cleared and landscaped as part of the construction of the Rozelle Hospital and 

surrounding grounds. If this scatter of shell was part of an existing midden, then it is 

highly probable that it has been severely disturbed by this past activity. The possibility 

cannot be ruled out also, that the oyster shell fragments have been brought into the area 

during the development stages at Rozelle Hospital as refill. Indeed, the European rock 

engravings appear to continue underneath the current grassed area suggesting regrowth 

and or landscaping. 

An isolated stone artefact was located on the upper eastern slope of the Callan Point 

headland, approximately 25m south-east of shell concentration I (See Plate 11). 

56 

.

hell concentration located at Callan Poin-CaclJacent to King George Park. 

PlateTf:-/Solatiidartefact located at Callan Point. 

57

The following provides the details for this artefact. 

Material Type: Metamorphosed sandstone 

Colour: Red/brown 

Artefact Type: Hammer stone 

Dimensions: 45mm (L) x 25mm (W) x 20mm (Th). 

Comments: Pitting present along one edge of artefact. 

Two low lying rock shelters also situated on the south eastern edge of Callan Point, that 

have been recorded as midden I rock shelter sites (NSW NPWS Site Numbers 45-6-1971 

& 45-6-1972) were also inspected. These potential sites however, currently contain a 

great deal of rubbish and have had fires lit in them in recent times. The researchers were 

unable to confirm if these two low lying shelters contained artefactual material. 

Certainly, no obvious midden material like that present in NPWS Site 45-6-283 was 

evident in these two shelters. 

11.4 Summary for the Callan Point Area 

The findings from Callan Point indicate that the whole ofthe area, from the headland 

through to King George Park was the focus of Aboriginal activity. Two main 

concentrations ofAboriginal activity are noted within this area. The first ofthese is the 

headland at Callan Point, where an open shell midden is present. The second area is the 

rock shelter located in a small bay, south east of the headland. A possible third area of 

past Aboriginal activity is located on the far eastern edge of Callan Point, adjacent to 

King George Park, where a possible open midden site is present. The current researchers 

however, cannot confirm whether this scatter of oyster shell is definately a site. 

Other small low lying shelters along the eastern edge of Callan Point may contain 

archaeological deposits but litter and the charcoal remains of recent fires, presumably lit 

by children, cover the floors making access and surface visibility difficult. 

58

12.0 RESULTS / DISCUSSION FOR YURULBIN POINT 

Two rock overhangs and one rock shelter I art site were investigated at Yurulbin Point. 

The following provides the findings of these investigations (See Map 3). ) 

12.1 Rock Overhang at 144 Lonisa Road 

A large rock overhang is located at the base of the northern cliffs of Yurulbin Point, on 

the property of 144 Louisa Road. The overhang, which faces in a northerly direction, 

is 7.4Orn in length, with a maximum depth of 335m and a maximum height of 3.80m 

(See Diagram 3 & Plate 12). 

A large retaining wall, approximately 15m in length and 15m in height has been built at 

the point of the high tide mark. The overhang is located 10m south of this wall (See Plate 

13). The area from the retaining wall back to the overhang has been infilled and 

landscaped. The depth of this infill in this area is undetermined, however it is certain that 

the area underneath the overhang has been infilled for its entire length. 

Much of the west portion of the floor underneath the overhang has been sealed over with 

tar. Within the east section of the overhang, at the back wall, the footings of a bench has 

been dug into the earth floor. At approximately the centre of the back wall of the 

overhang, at a height of 2m, an iron ring has cemented into the wall. There is some 

evidence of recent graffiti on the backwall of the shelter, including the outline of a fish 

which has been scratched into the wall. On the east side of the overhang there is evidence 

of several vertical chisel marks on the backwall 

The overhang is presently being utilised as a storage area by the property owners. 

12.2 Rock Overhang at 9 Numa Street 

A second overhang is located approximately SOm east of the one identified at 144 Louisa 

Road. This overhang is located at the base of the northern cliffs ofYurulbin Point, on the 

property of 9 Numa Street. The overhang, which faces in a northerly direction, is located 

approximately 10m from the waters edge (See Plate 14). A large sea wall has been built 

along the waters edge. The area between this sea wall and the overhang has been infilled 

60 

•

Plate 12: Rock overna.ng at 144 Louisa Rd. 

Plate 13 : View looking s-w at retaining wall in froriTaT overhang at 144 Louisia Rd. 

63

and landscaped (See Plate IS). Again the extent of the depth of this infill is unknown. It 

does appear that there is a natural upward gradient from the waters edge to the overhang, 

which means that the depth of the infill underneath the overhang may be minimal (See 

Diagram 4). 

There is a series of steps leading down from the house at 9 Numa Street, which enter into 

the eastern portion of the overhang. Beyond this intrusion, there appears to be very little 

sub-surface disturbance to the floor of the overhang, at least since infilling has occurred. 

The overhang is presently being utilised as a storage area by the occupants of 9 Numa 

Street. 

12.3 The Shelter I Art Site at 7 Numa Street (NPWS Site Number 45-6-2287) 

Approximately 30m south-east of the overhang, at 9 Numa Street, is a small rock shelter. 

The shelter is 6.90m in length, with a maximum depth of4.20m and a maximum height 

of2.6Om (See Diagram 5 & Plate 16). 

The shelter, which is approximately 8m from the waters edge, faces in an easterly 

direction, and seems to be more exposed to the prevailing weather than the other two 

overhangs. 

Again, a large sea wall has been built around this section of the point, and the area 

between the wall and the shelter has been landscaped and infilled. However, in this 

instance, the area within the shelter does not appear to have been infilled. The site has 

been affected by other forms of disturbance, mainly through landscaping activity. Steps 

leading down from the house at 7 Numa Street cut down through the north-east section of 

the shelter. Four of these steps have been cemented in, while the last two steps have been 

cut into the floor of the shelter (See Plate 17). 

From these cuttings we gain a cross section view of the depth of deposit in the shelter, 

which appears to be very shallow (less than Scm). Among this deposit some shell 

fragments were noted (the Sydney cockle), however these were too few to positively 

identify the shelter as a midden site. There is also some scattered fragments of European 

debris within the shelter, including pottery and brick fragments. Recent ash deposits 

indicate that fires have been recently lit under the shelter. 

64

Within this shelter a series of II hand stencils and a charcoal outline of a shark had been 

previously recorded by Guider (date unknown) (see Diagram 6). As previously 

mentioned, AASC employed the services of Katherine Sale to carry out the recording of 

the rock art during this survey (See Appendix I for Sale's full report). 

At the time of recording only two hand stencils and an area of red pigment were 

identified. The hand stencils were made using a white pigment, little of which is now 

visable on the rock surface. It is very difficult to distinguish this pigment from other 

white surface deposits and the underlying rock, and the outer edge of the handstencil 

could not be determined. It was not possible to identify the nature of these deposits 

during the field inspection, and this would require further detailed analysis. 

The red pigment, located immediately beneath the scratched graffiti, appears to have been 

sprayed onto the rock surface over an area of at least 20 x 47cm. It occurs as very small 

(generally less than Imm) 'splatters' of red pigment, and is very difficult to see (easily 

missed). No clear outlines could be identified at the time of inspection, however the 

pigment occurs in a roughly circular shape, with 1-2 linear areas containing a higher 

density of pigment. 

During discussions with the present property owners it became clear that not all of the art 

currently located in the shelter is likely to be of Aboriginal origin. The blacck charcoal 

shark was apparently drawn by a neighbours young child some years ago, and as such 

this motif has not been recorded (refer to previous recordings for this). In addition, it was 

thought that some of the art may have been politically motivated, made at a time when 

property owners in the area were in discussion with the Council regarding ownership of 

the foreshore land. The current property owner could not be more specific about what 

was done or who had done it. While it is possible that the red pigment was added to the 

rock surface at this time (given its absence from previous recordings), this is merely 

speculative and can not be confirmed at this time. The consultants were also told that fires 

had been built in the shelter for picnics over a long period of time. It is likely that the 

smoke from these fires has contributed to a reduction in visibility ofthe art. 

The shelter contains scratched and chalked graffiti, with a scratched 'M' partly covering 

one of the hand stencils. 

69

12.4 Further Discussions 

To date no archaeological-remains ofAboriginal origin has been identified at either of the 

two overhangs located at Yurulbin Point. As such, neither of these overhangs are 

formally recognised as Aboriginal sites. However, we do consider that there is a high 

probability that both these overhangs would have been utilised by Aboriginal people. 

Both overhangs are located within 100m of the shelter / art site, where there is clear 

evidence of Aboriginal activity. This shelter / art site is smaller and less protected from 

the prevailing elements than either of the tWo overhangs. This raises the question, why 

was this shelter utilised and not the other two overhangs, which appear to afford better 

prospects for shelter. We would suggest that these two overhangs were indeed utilised by 

Aboriginal people, however the archaeological remains of this occupation is presently 

covered over by infill which has been placed in and around the two overhangs. 

12.5 Further Findings From This Project 

As mentioned previously, John Clegg, Nick Hall and Catherine Sale were invited to 

undertake a site inspection of Yurulbin Point. In the course of this inspection, a series of 

carvings, located on the cliffs at the property of 11 Numa Street, were examined. Mr 

Clegg, duly informed us that he was the sculptor responsible for these works. We felt it 

necessary to clarify the origins of these carvings, in order to avoid any future confusion or 

controversy. 

John Clegg also informed us of the existence of a rock art site at White Horse Point. 

Although this fell outside the scope of this project, it was decided that it would be 

appropriate to pay a brief visit to this site. The site inspection resulted in the identification 

of two hand stencils on the sandstone cliffs at the northern most extremity ofWhite Horse 

Point. Both are done with red pigment. Both stencils are under immediate threat of 

damage through the encroachment ofmodem graffiti practices on the cliff. The current 

researchers would suggest the Council talk with a rock art specialist such as John Clegg 

in order to develope an appropriate management plan for this site, particularly 

considering that it is located at a highly visited public area. Certainly, discussions need to 

be held with the Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council regarding a future management 

plan for this site. 

73

The existence of this site highlights the potential for further Aboriginal sites to be still 

present within the Leichhardt Municipality. While much of the original shoreline in the 

Municipality has been infilled, some of the cliffs along the shoreline are still relatively 

undisturbed. These areas have a potential for containing a variety of Aboriginal site types. 

Michael Guider has also recorded a midden at White Horse Point (NPWS Site Number 

45-6-1900). 

74

13.0 SIGNIFICANCE ASSESSMENTS 

13.1 Significance Criteria 

Several criteria have been deemed important for the assessment of the significance values 

of the archaeological resource. These criteria may be classified under the following 

headings: 

1) Aboriginal Significance 

This relates to the value placed upon a site or suite of sites by the local or regional 

Aboriginal community. These values may be based upon cultural affiliations with 

particular sites and the concerns for the protection and custodianship of these sites. 

2) Scientific/Archaeological Significance 

Two major components are used in the assessment of this category. The first entails the 

potential of a site or suite of sites for scientific research and excavation. This is measured 

in terms of a site's ability to provide information on aspects of Aboriginal culture. In this 

respect, the contents of a site and their state of preservation are important considerations. 

The second relates to the representativeness of a site. This is a measure of the degree to 

which sites in the area of investigation are characteristic of sites in the immediate and 

surrounding region. Conversely, it may be a measure of the uniqueness or rarity of a site. 

The primary goal ofcultural resource management is to afford greatest protection to a 

representative sample of sites throughout a region. 

3) Educational Significance 

Educational values are based on the potential of a site as an educational resource for 

groups within a community. 

4) Historical Significance 

Historic value refers to the importance of a site as a location of an historic event, phase, 

figure or activity. 

75

13.2 The Significance ofAboriginal Sites Investigated During This Project 

The significance assessment of sites located during this survey has been based on the 

above criteria. It should be noted that sites may have features which allow them to satisfy 

more than one criteria, and therefor will have a multiplicity of significant attributes. 

The Open Shell Midden Site on the Headland at Callan Point 

This site may be classified as having been only moderately disturbed. There are some 

sections of the site which have been affected by natural erosion processes or through foot 

traffic. However, it would appear that a considerable portion of the site may be free of 

disturbance, having been covered and consolidated by native vegetation. Although the 

shell deposit of this site appears to be quite shallow in depth, there is still a strong 

possibility that the site contains in-situ artefactual material. This site can therefore be 

considered to have good research potential. On this basis we have rated this site as being 

of moderate to high archaeological significance. 

Mary Coe from the Metropolitan Land Council has assessed the site as being of moderate 

to high significance to the Aboriginal Community, and is concerned that the site be i. 

managed appropriately. 

The site has potential to be utilised for educational purposes, as an example ofAboriginal 

middens in the region. However, this would depend on the management 

recommendations adopted for the site. We would tentatively assess the site as being of 

moderate educational significance. 

The Shelter Midden Site at Callan Point 

Because of it's well preserved nature of this site, Ms Attenbrow considers this midden to 

be one of the most important Aboriginal sites (from an archaeological perspective) 

remaining on the southern shores of Sydney Harbour, and as such was rated as a high 

priority for future excavation. Our investigations confirm this view. We would therefore 

rate this site as being of very high archaeological significance. 

Given the rarity of well preserved sites of this nature, and the site's ability to provide 

information on aspects ofAboriginal lifestyle in the area, Mary Coe has rated this site as 

being of high significance to the Aboriginal community. 

76

The close proximity of this site to numerous educational institutions, together with the 

ease of access to the site makes it ideal for educational purposes. On this basis we would 

rate the site as being of high educational significance. 

The Possible Open Midden Site at Callan Point, Adjacent to King George Park 

This potential site appears to have been subject to a high degree of disturbance, and the 

existing deposit seems to be quite shallow in depth. On this basis, if it was a site we 

would rate it as being of low archaeological significance. The current researchers can not 

confirm the authenticity of this potential site as there are only fragments of Sydney oyster 

present and the immediate area has been extensively disturbed by past development and 

landscaping. The presence of this material has however been noted for future records. 

The Overhang at 144 Louisa Road 

It has not yet been ascertained whether or not this is actually an Aboriginal site, and as 

such it is difficult to assess its potential. The assessment can only be made on the basis of 

the likelihood that there is artefactual material present within the overhang. This site has 

suffered some degree of disturbance through infill and landscaping. However, there is 

still the possibility that it contains in-situ artefactual deposits. However, given that a 

considerable portion of the floor of the site has been sealed with tar, it would be a 

difficult proposition to excavate. On this basis we assess the overhang as having low to 

moderate sub-surface archaeological potential. 

Based on the absence of artefactual material, Mary Coe had not made an assessment as to 

the significance of the overhang to the Aboriginal community. 

The fact that the overhang is located on private property (and hence access is limited) and 

that it is not a confirmed site, means that its educational potential is low. 

77

The Overhang at 9 Numa Street 

As with the pre-mentioned overhang at 144 Louisa Road, it has not yet been ascertained 

whether or not this is actually an Aboriginal site, and as such it is difficult to assess its 

potential. The assessment can only be made on the basis ofthe likelihood that there is 

artefactual material present within the overhang. The area in and around this overhang 

has been subject to infill and landscaping. However, it appears that the infill underneath 

the overhang may be minimal. The degree of disturbance of the original deposit 

underneath the overhang is uncertain. There is a possibility that if archaeological deposits 

are present, that they may still be in an in-situ context. On this basis we would assess the 

overhang as having moderate sub-surface archaeological potential. 

Again, based on the absence of artefactual material, Mary Coe had not made an 

assessment as to the significance of the overhang to the Aboriginal community. 

The Shelter I Art Site at 7 Numa Street 

This is one of only a few Aboriginal art sites identified in the Leichhardt Municipality. 

However, there are numerous other art sites featuring hand stencils within the broader 

area of the Port Jackson Catchment. The shelter in which the art site is located has a very 

shallow deposit, and there is little likelihood of any sub-surface artefactual material being 

associated with the shelter. For these reasons we would assess the site as being of 

moderate archaeological significance. 

Mary Coe had indicated that the site may be considered to be of moderate to high 

archaeological significance to the local Aboriginal community. 

The fact that the overhang is located on private property, and hence access is limited, 

means that the overhang is presently of low educational significance. There is however a 

proposal in place to make the waterfront area a public reserve. If this proposal is adopted 

then this area will be the focus of considerably more activity. In this case, the educational 

significance of this site may be reassessed. 

78

14.0 MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS 

In providing the following management recommendations, we have tried to incorporate 

the views and concerns of people who have been involved with various aspects of the 

project. 

14.1 The Sites at Callan Point 

Based on observations made during the fieldwork stage at Callan Point, it is obvious that 

this area is a focal point for recreational activities. As such, one of the major issues to be 

addressed when establishing management recommendations for the sites in this area is 

that of people management. 

The Open Midden on the Headland 

On the headland, where the open midden site is located, people predominantly utilised the 

existing tracks when walking through this area. In one sense this is desirable, as foot 

traffic is being largely confined to a set route, thereby limiting the spatial extent of 

disturbance to the area. However, as mentioned in the results section of this report, one of 

these tracks passes through the open midden site located on the headland. The continued 

foot traffic through the site is perpetuating natural erosion processes, which is adversely 

affecting the site's condition. 

Rather than restricting access to the headland area, the consultants feel that the most 

effective way of addressing this situation is to establish a series of boardwalks through 

the area. These boardwalks should follow the two existing paths which pass through the 

headland area (See Diagram 9). The first of these boardwalks should follow on from the 

sandstone steps which lead up to the south-west section of the headland. This boardwalk 

would then follow the fenceline in an easterly direction, across to the eastern edge of the 

headland. 

The second boardwalk should commence at the northern edge of the headland and follow 

the existing track through to the south-east section of the headland, where it would join 

with the first boardwalk. From this point, a single boardwalk should lead in a south-east 

direction to the existing car park (See Plates 18 - 21). 

79

Plate 19 : View looking north along proposed route of board walk. 

81

Plate 20 : View looking s-e at proposed routeorooaro-wal 

Plate 21 : View looking s-e at proposed-route of board walk, up towards !be carpark, 

82

Where the boardwalks pass over existing European carvings, care should be taken not to 

damage these sites in any way. 

In cOluunction with the establishment of boardwalks, a program of re-vegetation should 

be implemented, particularly for those areas which are presently suffering from erosion. 

Native grasses and selected low lying shrubs would be the preferred vegetative cover for 

the area. Both types have root systems which would add to the stabilisation of the area. 

This is in contrast to many tree species, which have large root systems which can 

potentially add to the disturbance of sites. The council should approach NSW NPWS for 

advise on re-vegetation. 

We strongly believe that the establishment of boardwalks, combined with a program of 

re-vegetation is the preferred management option for this area. It is the most effective 

way to minimise future disturbance and impact upon the midden site, while still allowing 

public access to the headland area. The only potential drawback of this management 

option is that it may be quite expensive to implement. 

There are alternative management options which may be adopted for this area. The entire 

headland area could be fenced off, thereby restricting public access to the area where the 

shell midden site is located. This would certainly minimise future impact on the site area. 

By adopting the same re-vegetation program as outlined above, the site area would be 

further stabilised. While this management option would certainly be more cost effective 

than establishing boardwalks through the area, it is questionable as to how desirable or 

practical it would be to completely restrict public access to this area. 

A third potential management option is to merely re-vegetate the headland area, and to 

allow the public to utilise the existing tracks which run through this area. The benefit of a 

adopting this approach is that it is a cost effective option. However, it is questionable as 

to how effective this option is in minimising future impact on the midden site. 

Which ever of these three management options are adopted, we would suggest that there 

should also be public information signs established in the area, which outlines the nature 

ofAboriginal occupation in the area, and provides a brief description and interpretation of 

the shell midden site. 

83

The Shelter I Midden Site 

A considerable portion of the artefactual deposit within the shelter has been stabilised by 

a large piece of roof fall which covers the floor in the rear two thirds of the shelter. 

However, the deposit within the front section of the shelter is prone to a number of 

disturbance factors, the major ones being water erosion (in the form of tidal activity) and 

human and animal activity. These are affecting the overall integrity of the site. 

The shelter is proximated right on the high water mark. During periods of abnormally 

high tides, water enters the shelter, disturbing the deposit in the front section. The only 

feasible way to curb this erosion activity is to erect some form of barrier along the front 

entrance of the shelter. In keeping with the setting of the area, the most suitable type of 

barrier would be a series of sandstone slabs lined along the front entrance of the shelter. 

Several slabs were noted within the immediate vicinity of the shelter, which could be 

utilised for this task. 

The establishment of a barrier in front of the shelter would also serve to minimise human 

and animal activity within the shelter. However, access to the shelter can also be gained 

via a track leading down from the top of the sandstone cliffs. The erection of a small 

fence along this section of the cliff would effectively deter people and animals from 

utilising this track (See Plate 22). 

84

The Potential Open Midden Site on the CliffLine Adjacent to King George Park 

This potential site has already been subject to major disturbance through landscape and 

construction activity associated with the Rozelle Hospital. Given this, there seems little 

point in adopting any major management options for this site area. Perhaps the only 

management option which may be considered is the planting of native grasses in those 

areas where shell material is eroding to the surface. Approvial to carry out re-vegetaation 

or other management options at or near known sites can only be carried out with the 

written consent of NSW NPWS. 

14.2 Sites At Yurulbin Point 

All of the areas investigated at Yurulbin Point are situated on Private property, and are 

therefore not subject to the same degree of public traffic as the sites at Callan Point. In 

many respects this makes the future management of these areas far easier. However the 

success of any proposed management options for these areas will directly depend on the 

co-operation and participation of the respective property owners. 

The Overhang at 144 Louisa Road 

The floor underneath the overhang has already been subject to disturbance through 

landscaping and infil!. However, there is a possibility that in situ artefactual deposits are 

present beneath the infill. Given this possibility, any further sub-surface disturbance 

of the floor of the overhang should be avoided. 

The overhang is presently being utilised as a storage area for various items. There is no 

archaeological impediment to this practice continuing. 

The Overhang at No.9 Numa Street 

Again, the floor underneath this overhang has been disturbed through landscaping and 

infu!. However, it would appear that the degree of both disturbance and infill is less than 

that noted for the overhang at 144 Louisa Road. Given this, there is comparatively higher 

possibility of in-situ artefactual deposit being present beneath the shelter. As such, any 

sub-surface disturbance of the floor of the overhang should be avoided. 

As with 144 Louisa Road, this overhang is presently being utilised as a storage area for 

various items. There is no archaeological impediment to this practice continuing. 

85

The Shelter I Art Site at No.7 Numa Street 

Ongoing research within the Sydney Basin region indicates that art sites are a fragile 

resource which are prone to numerous destructive agents. As McDonald (1990) points 

out, many art recorders within the region have commented on the deterioration of well 

known sites over the past twenty years. 

Much of this deterioration is the result of the exfoliation of the sandstone surfaces on 

which the art is located. Several studies focusing on the analyses of sandstone surfaces in 

the Sydney Basin indicate that this medium is very unstable (Hughes 1978 ; Lambert 

1989). Whether this process of exfoliation has been accelerated in recent times through 

increased pollution and site visitation is at this stage uncertain. 

Weathering is also a major factor affecting the condition of art sites, particularly paintings 

and stencils. As Rosenfeld (1988) points out, the durability of these art sites depends on 

the properties of the pigment and the bonding of the pigment to the rock. Unless there is 

some degree of penetration of the pigment into the rock, then all trace of a motif may be 

lost through weathering. McDonald ( 1990) notes that water seepage and chemical 

leaching through sandstone surfaces are the main weathering agents affecting motifs 

within the Sydney Basin Region. Both these weathering agents are reported as being 

difficult to manage (McDonald 1990). 

Other environmental factors impacting upon motif sites in the region include wasp, mud 

swallow and termite nests. 

In reality there are no viable management options which can be adopted to conserve the 

stencils at 7 Numa Street. The more practical alternative is to present a set of 

management options which will potentially decrease the rate of deterioration of these 

stencils. 

The shelter in which the art is located faces in the direction of the prevailing winds. As 

such, the art is presently susceptible to weathering agents such as wind rain and salt. This 

susceptibility could be considerably reduced through the planting of shrubs in the area in 

front of the shelter. These shrubs would as a buffer between the shelter and the prevailing 

weather. 

86

The shelter I art site is also prone to impact through human and animal activity. The 

erection of a small hand rail running adjacent to the stairs leading down from 7 Numa 

Street to the shelter site would act as a deterrent to people entering the shelter (See Plate 

23). The owners of the property should also be advised against utilising the shelter as a 

storage area for equipment, or for any type of recreational purpose. 

14.3 General Management Recommendations 

1. Any disturbance of, or near Aboriginal sites (such as clearing, re-vegetation, 

demolition or construction) mut be approved by the NSW NPWS in accordance 

with the NPWS Act 1974. 

2. Given the possibility of additional Aboriginal sites being present along the shoreline 

of the Leichhardt Municipality, a general survey should be undertaken in this area by a 

qualified archaeologist. 

2. Regular inspections should be undertaken of the sites investigated during this survey 

in order to monitor their condition. 

3. Copies of this report should be forwarded to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife 

Service. The Metropolitan Land Council, and the respective property owners. 

87

from a number of other public sources within the municiplality. The pamphlet would 

have the designated contact person's (this should be the Aboriginal Community 

Worker/Officer position and/or the Sites Officer from the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal 

Land Council) telephone number and address on the back page. 

As suggested at the Leichhardt Council Aboriginal Community Consultative Comrnittee 

meeting held on the 20th April 1995, the cover of the pamphlet could be a reprint of a 

painting or some other artwork of a local Aboriginal artist. Alternatively, the cover could 

be a photograph of a local Aboriginal site, provided permission was granted by the 

Metroplolitan Aboriginal Land Council to use the image. 

The general information for the interpetative signs provided in the Sections 15.4 and 15.5 

could be used to provide wording for the pamphlet. The'Metropolitan Local Aboriginal 

Land Council may also allow photographs of some of the sites in the Municipality to be 

used to suppliment the text in the pamphlet. 

15.3 Interpetation Sign for the Cullan Point Aboriginal Sites 

Cullan Point is visited by a large number of people. A track used by many walkers and 

joggers that cuts across and around the point is nearly always in use. People also visit the 

point specifically for it aesthetic qualities. An interpretative sign located at the Point, 

explaining the Aboriginal sites and heritage there, would be well read provided it was 

located near to and facing the footpath or future boardwalk used by the pedestrians. 

The consultants would recommend that the interpretative sign be located on the far point. 

There the track divides, with one path turning immediately left and going down a stone 

staircase while the other continues before turning left down closer to the shoreline The 

interpretive sign could be placed facing upslope on the Point's edge. Alternatively, the 

sign could be located up near the carpark on the grass, where the track which joins King 

George Park, passes. 

As Culldn point has a number of aesthetic qualities due to the view that it faces onto, a 

large sign on two poles would not be as aesthetically pleasing, and could infact take away 

some of the viewing advantages. What would be less obstructive to the eye would be a 

low sandstone cairn cemented together which had a sign plate (70cmx7Omm 

90

approximately) screwed onto the top surface, which should be angled slightly, for the 

readers ease. 

Alternatively, a low standing sign (attached to two poles) could be used. 

15.4 Wording for the Cullan Point Aboriginal Sites Interpretative Sign 

Wording for the interpretative sign could be as follows: 

Heading: Cullan Point Aboriginal Site 

Interpretation/Description : Although one of the earliest areas in Australia to be 

developed by Europeans, Leichhardt still contains the physical evidence of the original 

custodians of this area. Here at Cullan Point, surrounded by the historical developments 

of the last two hundred plus years are a number ofAboriginal sites that have survived the 

pressures of time. 

Although debate continues about the exact composition and distribution of 'tribes' 

(language groups) in the Sydney area at the time of the first European contact, it appears 

from the linguistic recordings that there were three main language groups in the Sydney 

region (Dharawal, Dharug and Kuring-gai). The clans who lived between Port Jackson 

and Botany Bay referred to themselves as the Eora or coastal people. The Eora were 

either a sub-group of the Dharug language group or a completely separate language 

group. Among the Eora 'clans' (land ownership was invested in 'the clan', which had 

rights in an area called an'estate') it is believed that the area that is now encompassed by 

the Leichhardt Municipality was the home of the Wangal clan. The boundary between the 

Wangal and Cadigal clans is identified as lying along the Balmain Peninsula. 

The Aboriginal custodians of this area utilised their local marine and land resources to 

obtain food and materials needed to make tools and other needed implements. Here at 

Callan Point along the edges of the sandstone face and on top of the point itself are 

various shell middens (the shell heaps or shell refuse piles that have been left after people 

have eaten the contents). Archaeological studies at Callan Point have shown that the local 

Aboriginal people collected from the shore edge, rock oysters, Sydney cockles, Sydney 

mussels and Terrebralia shells. In one midden deposit, which has been protected by the 

collapse of a sandstone slab, evidence of fish bones and small amounts of red ochre 

91

which would have been used for painting (possibly on rockshelter walls) were also 

recorded. Along the track at Callan Point you can see patches of broken shell exposed. 

This could well be midden material or in cases be shell deposited as a result of industrial 

infilling or material left by pedestrians some years ago. 

Archaeological work at Callan Point has also located a hammerstone which would have 

been used for making stone artefacts (tools) or for breaking open shellfish. There is also 

evidence at this location that the local Aboriginal people used some of the cockle shells 

for tools. The edges of a number of these shells have been worn down which shows that 

they have been used for cutting or scrapping. Fresh water would have been obtained from 

the small creeks running into Port Jackson. Certainly, the traditional inhabitants of the 

area interacted well with their environment and utilised the local resources to their benefit 

and well being. 

No dates have been obtained from the sites at Callan Point as yet but other sites in the 

Port Jackson area have been dated from 4500 years old, up to the advent of Europeans. 

Sites such as these at Callan Point are testimony to the prior occupation of an area by 

Aboriginal people and as such are of great cultural importantance to Aboriginal people': 

today. As an ever diminishing resource due to development and weathering, sites such as 

these middens need to be be conserved and managed or they will be lost forever. Today, 

the Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council represents the Aboriginal people of the 

immediate Sydney region. The Leichhardt Council has been consulting with the Land 

Council to ensure that the remaining Aboriginal sites in Leichhart area are well recorded, 

conserved, and managed. Documentation of the history and heritage of the original 

inhabitants of this area is also being prepared for educative pupposes by the Leichhardt 

Council in close consultation with the Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council. 

You may contact the Aboriginal Community Officer at the Leichhardt Council for further 

information on the Aboriginal heritage of the Leichhardt area. 

(Addressltelephone number to be included) 

92

15.5 Interpretation Sign for Yurulbin Point Aboriginal Sites 

Yurulbin Point is also visited by quite a large number of people. People arrive at and 

leave the point by a ferry service which has its jetty on the Point's foreshore. As well, 

people also visit the point specifically for it aesthetic qualities as the point provides a 

good view across this section of the harbour. The area around the Point also has housing 

developments. An interpretation sign located near to the entrance of the car park at a 

clearly visible and safe location would be our recommendation. The sign could be set on 

the same design as that for Callan Point. 

Wording for an interpetation sign for this area could contain the same background 

information as offered for the Callan Point sign but should higWight the fact that in this 

area Aboriginal people utilised one of the rock overhangs as a backdrop for making hand 

stencils, using ochre. 

Given the fact that the rock art site is currently situated on private property and that the 

the stencils are fading the consultants do not recommend that the general public be 

encouraged to visit this site. If the land tenour in this area changes then the further 

discussions with the Metropolitan Aboriginal Land Council should occur to determine 

whether the site should be open to visitor access. 

93

REFERENCES CITED 

Attenbrow, V.J. 1987 The Upper Mangrove Creek Catchment, A Study of Ouantitative 

Changes in the Archaeological Record, Unpub. PhD thesis, University of Sydney, 

Sydney. 

Attenbrow, V,J. 1988 Research into the Aboriginal Occupation of the Hunter's Hill 

Municipality. A Report For the Hunter's Hill Municipal Council. 

Attenbrow, V. J. 1990 The Port Jackson Archaeological Project: Report on Stage One. 

A Report to the Australian Museum. 

Bowdler, S. 1971 Balls Head. The Excavation of a Port Jackson Rock Shelter. Records 

of the Australian Museum 28: 117-128. 

Bulbeck, D. & Boot, P. 1991 Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve Cultural Resource Survey and 

Conservation Plan. Prepared for the A.C.T, Heritage Unit and the A.C.T. Parks and 

Conservation Unit. 

Capell, A. 1970 Aboriginal Languages in the South Central Coast, New South Wales: 

Fresh Discoveries. Oceania 41 : 20-27. 

Collins, D. (1798; 1802) 1975 An Account of the English Colony of New South Wales. 

Two Volumes. A.W. & A.H. Reed, Sydney. 

94

Dowling, PJ. 1990 Violent Epidemics. Disease. conflict and Aboriginal population 

collapse as a result of European contact in the Riverland of South Australia. Unpublished 

MA Thesis, A.N.U. 

Edwards, M. 1993 The Growth of Aboriginal Organisations. In Plater (ed) Other 

Boundaries. Inner-City Aboriginal Stories. pp 185-191. Bagnall & Bagnall Publications. 

Elder, B. 1988 Blood on the Wattle. Massacres and Maltreatment of Australian 

Aborigines Since 1788. Child & Associates. 

Flood, 1 . 1980 The Moth Hunters. Australian Institute of Aboriginal Studies: 

Canberra . 

Ganjoo, M & Fritis, K. 1993 Post-Contact. What Happened to the Original People. In 

Plater (ed) Other Boundaries. Inner-City Aboriginal Stories. Bagnall & Bagnall 

Publications. 

Goodall, H. 1982 A History of Aboriginal Communities in NSW 1909-1939. 

Unpublished Thesis. University of Sydney. 

Goodall, H. 1991 Land in Our Country. Aboriginal History: 14.1991. 

Hughes, P.l. 1978 Weathering in Sandstone Shelters in the Sydney Basin and the 

Survival of Rock Art. In C. Pearson (ed) Conservation of Rock Art ; Proceedings of the 

International Workshop on the Conservation ofRock Art. Perth. 1977: pp 36-41. 

Kohen, l.L. 1985 Aborigines in the West - Prehistory to Present. Western Sydney 

Project, Nepean College ofAdvanced Education, Kingwood. 

95

Kohen, J.L. & Lampert, RJ. 1987 Hunters and Fishers of the Sydney Region. In 

Mulvaney & White (eds) Australians to 1788. Fairfax, Syme & Weldon Associates, 

Sydney, Pp 343-365. 

La Perouse Aboriginal Community 1988 La Perouse. the Place, the People and the Sea. 

Australian Institute ofAboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies, Canberra. 

McBryde, I . 1979 Ethnohistory in an Australian Context: Independent Discipline or 

Convenient Data Quarry? Aboriginal History 3 (2) : 128-150 . 

Miles, D. 1964 Preliminary Comments on the Balls Head Archaeological Excavations. 

Australian Natural History 14 (11): 343-345. 

O'Donnell, G & Walker, M. 1982 Archaeological Excavation at Reef Beach, Balgowlah, 

NSW. Report to NSW NPWS. 

Peterson, N. 1971 Open Sites and the Ethnographic Approach to the Archaeology of 

Hunter-gatherers . Aboriginal Man and Environment in Australia (eds D.J. Mulvaney and 

J . Golson), pp. 239-48: A.N.V. Press, Canberra. 

Peterson, N . 1975 Hunter-Gatherer Territoriality: The Perspective From Australia. 

American Anthropologist Vol. 77 No.1. 

96

Peterson, N . 1976 The Natural and Cultural Areas of Aboriginal Australia : A 

preliminary analysis of population groupings with adaptive significance. In N. Peterson 

(ed) Tribes and Boundaries in Australia. Australian Institute of Aboriginal Studies: 

Canberra . 

Peterson, N. 1986 Australian Territorial Organization. Oceania Monograph. University 

of Sydney . 

Plater, D. 1993 Rising Consciousness-the Birth of Aboriginal Political Movements. In 

Plater (ed) Other Boundaries: Inner City Aboriginal Stories. Pp 61-73. Bagnall & 

Bagnall Publications. 

Plater, D. 1993b Higher Education. In Plater (ed) Other Boundaries: Inner City 

Aboriginal Stories, Pp 204--209. Bagnall & Bagnall Publications. 

Rosenfeld, A. 1988 Rock Art Conservation in Australia. Special Australian Heritage 

Publication Series No.2. 

Ross, A. & Specht. J. 1976 An Archaeological Survey on Port Jackson. Australian 

Archaeology 5: 14-17. 

Service, E.R. 1966 The Hunters. Prentice, Hall, Inc. New Jersey. 

Turbet, P. 1989 The Aborigines of the Sydney District Before 1788. Kangaroo Press, 

Kenthurst. 1989. 

97

Webb, S.G. 1984 Prehistoric Stress in Australian Aborigines :a Paleo-pathological 

Survey of a Hunter/Gatherer Population. Unpub. PhD Thesis, A.N.U. 

White, I. & Cane, S. 1986 An Investigation of Aboriginal Settlements and Burial 

Patterns in the Vicinity of Yass . A Report to the N.P.W.S. , Queanbeyan . 

98 

I

Recording Technigue 

APPENDIX 1 

NOTES ON THE ART AT 7 NUMA STREET 

Prepared by 

Katharine M. Sale 

14 June 1995 

The shelter was inspected on a sunny day at 12pm with good light conditions. A general sketch was 

made of the general location of motifs and graffiti. The art was photographed using a Pentax35 

70mm camera using slide (Kodak Ektachrome) and colour negative (Kodak Gold) film, and then 

traced from slides. A hand lens was used to assist in a detailed examination of the rock surface. 

At the time of recording only two hand stencils and an area of red pigment were identified. 

The hand stencils were made using a white pigment, little of which is now visible on the rock surface. 

It is very difficult to distinguish this pigment from other white surface deposits and the underlying 

rock, and the outer edge of the handstencil could. not be determined. It was not possible to identify 

the nature of these deposits during the field inspection, and this would require further detailed 

analysis. 

The red pigment, located immediately beneath the scratched graffiti, appears to have been sprayed 

onto the rock surface over an area of at least 20 x 47cm. It occurs as very small (generally

l' \

an archaeological investigation of abo~ sites at callan point and ...

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?