National Trust Award

NSW Aboriginal Archaeology Future Forum Wins National Trust Award in Events Category

We are delighted to share that the NSW Aboriginal Archaeology Future Forum has been recognised with a prestigious National Trust NSW Heritage Award, celebrating its outstanding contribution to the conservation, understanding and promotion of Aboriginal cultural heritage in New South Wales.

Since 2021, the Forum has become an important platform for bringing together Aboriginal community members, heritage practitioners, researchers, government agencies and industry professionals to discuss the future of Aboriginal archaeology annually. Last year the Forum was hosted on Dharawal Country at the University of Wollongong, and continued its strong focus on community and Country, ensuring Aboriginal voices, knowledge and aspirations remain central to archaeological practice and cultural heritage management.

The fifth annual Forum featured presentations and discussions on cultural heritage conservation, repatriation, archaeological research, community engagement and emerging approaches to heritage management. Presentations highlighted community led cultural heritage projects, coastal cultural values research, local heritage initiatives, legislative protections, repatriation projects, culturally centred approaches to heritage management, and meaningful Aboriginal consultation practices. The Forum also featured discussions on the cultural significance of the Wollondilly River and Burragorang Valley, empowering First Nations Knowledge Holders through archaeological knowledge and professional updates from the heritage sector.

This award is a testament to the dedication of the Australian Association of Consulting Archaeologists Incorporated (AACAI), the Australian Museum, presenters, sponsors, volunteers and participants who have helped the Forum grow into a respected and influential event. We are honoured to receive this recognition and look forward to continuing the important conversations that support the protection, understanding and celebration of Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations. The Forum will aim to continue to strengthen relationships between Aboriginal communities and the heritage sector, supporting better cultural heritage outcomes across NSW.

The committee is currently planning this year’s Forum on Gadigal Country at the Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney on the 30 October. Please reach out if you would like to be involved at nswarchaeologyforum@gmail.com