Oh what a Feeling!
Every weekend across the country, 4 wheel drive enthusiasts take their oversize vehicles out of the suburban driveway and shopping centre carpark to the bush. They like the freedom of off road driving. This recreational activity is a costly one. Of course there is the environmental impact but when the rally track is a sacred site, the costs are inevitably higher In Victoria, Dja Dja Warung peoples have been left in the dark as a sacred site is to be destroyed. Despite an inadequate archaeologists’ report having been carried out, a 4-Wheel Drive rally is scheduled for this weekend. The sporting activity is threatening Lake Buloak a sacred site near the town of Donald. Gary Murray, Secretary of the Dja Dja Warung Native Title Group is outraged at the recommendations. The Dja Dja Warrung peoples have sought an emergency declaration, but further measures will be needed for the long term protection of their cultural heritage. This recent debacle demonstrates the failings of the Victorian cultural heritage system. It seems unbelievable that the traditional owners were not included in the consultation process, but rather a Aboriginal welfare agency. The Dja Dja Warrung people are hopeful that a consultation meeting in Mildura will yield protection for their treasured country. The meeting will address the draft for Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Bill.