- The CH&DLALC is calling on Transport NSW for strengthened protection measures before and during the Coffs Harbour Bypass construction.
- The CH&DLAC is requesting Transport NSW to extend cultural salvage to all 24 archeological sites, not limited to the 14 sites as currently proposed, leaving 10 areas to be destroyed.
- The CH&DLALC along with the other Aboriginal stakeholders including Garby Elders Aboriginal Corporation, Jagun Community and Aged Care and Muurbay Bundani Aboriginal Corporation are all extremely disappointed in the quality of engagement of Transport NSW during the pre-construction heritage surveys. This process has seen Aboriginal parties views ignored in preference for the views of the contracted (Non-Aboriginal) archeologist.
- The Aboriginal stakeholder groups are requesting the inclusion of Cultural Safety/Sites Officers to assist with construction. This will allow the Aboriginal community to further investigate areas that were omitted during the pre-construction surveys. This includes heavily vegetated areas within the corridor, and areas within the vicinity of waterways and tributaries (omitted for environmental reasons), which have a high potential to uncover burials.
- The CH&DLALC and the Aboriginal stakeholders will continue to work with Transport NSW and NSW Planning to deliver a bypass on time and budget, and ensure the protection of all Aboriginal heritage within the bypass corridor.
Article in link below:
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-07-10/fight-for-aboriginal-cultural-officers-during-coffs-bypass-build/12443742?fbclid=IwAR2q0lVG0EsvXncK1QrP89gPeQV1KUKAvdBXDYHkfgHZ6rbkX2yKFpdh39M
