Cultural Plan 2013-2016 final.pdf - Coffs Harbour City Council ...

As adopted by Council on 28 February 2013
There is the opportunity to build on community partnerships between the Indigenous community through
already established organisations such as Saltwater Freshwater, the Regional Gallery, schools etc,
building on existing foundations.
Build on the Muttonbird Island shelter through developments such as the capacity to actually HEAR the
voice of an Elder telling the island’s story.
Promote the understanding of ecological processes that Aboriginal people knew/know – by encouraging
local indigenous people to share this knowledge, visitors not only learn about the land, and its fauna and
flora, but also the cultural life and material artefacts of indigenous people.
It would be wonderful if:
a) resources were made available to indigenous artists/artisans to develop their practices.
b) these practices were then presented in the community through workshops, concerts, exhibitions etc.
c) a schools program could be developed to introduce students to indigenous arts and artists, which
provides some funds for artists to practice their art/craft.
We need a Coffs Harbour Cultural Centre, where the myths, legends, art, crafts, storytelling, songs,
ceremonies and language of the Gumbaynggirr people can become a significant part of other cultural
pursuits. It could sell local aboriginal artworks and show short films of the local area directed at overseas
tourism and locals interested in the culture of our ‘first peoples’. There could be a museum component,
language, dance, craft and painting workshops for children and adults.
Support the integration of Aboriginal art and culture into infrastructure so those travelling into the region
could see the spirit of Aboriginal Australia in the built environment. This sometimes happens overseas,
e.g. American Indians in Arizona.
Promote the local Gumbaynggirrr language; e.g., the flags with “Ginginay” at the Hogbin Drive
roundabout, but have more labeling on the walks in the Botanic Garden, at creek and forest walks, as
well as at the airport and tourist centre.
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