Sacred site or just a stunt?
First it was koalas. Now a tent embassy has emerged as the latest obstacle to stop a billion dollar housing project set to rejuvenate one of Australia’s toughest suburbs.
A Housing New South Wales spokesman released the following statement:
“The Airds Bradbury Renewal Concept Plan was approved by the Department of Planning and Infrastructure in August 2012.”
In accordance with statutory requirements, a detailed assessment of the indigenous heritage and culture of the site was undertaken in consultation with local Aboriginal stakeholders prior to the approval.
“NSW Land & Housing Corporation and Urban Growth NSW met with members of the aboriginal community camping at Airds on 18 August 2014.
“The proposed work and extent of development was explained, which seemed to satisfy their concerns.”
Urban Growth NSW has agreed to arrange inspections of the site with the group and provide ongoing communication about the project.
Questions for Cr Sue Dobson:
1. What assistance have you provided to the Aboriginal tent embassy set up next to the Airds community centre run by you?
At every official Council meeting and public event, the Traditional Custodians of our local area, the Dharawal people, are formally acknowledged as the custodians of the Lands we meet on.Respects are paid to the Dharawal Elders, past and present, and all other Aboriginal Elders and Aboriginal people. I strongly respect this statement and these words. On the day that the tent embassy commenced, members of the group approached the community centre to request use of the bathroom and access to drinking water, which I afforded them, as I would to any other community member. The tent embassy participants are not utilising the community centre in any other way.
2. What role have you played in helping the tent embassy form?
No role.
3. What’s your thoughts on the claims they are making about protecting sacred sites behind Airds shops?
I’m very aware of the concerns for the protection of Aboriginal sacred sites that have been raised by Aboriginal people within our community, as evidenced in past media articles featuring respected Aboriginal leaders. Examples of such articles highlighting these concerns have been attached for reference.
4. What discussions have you had with Aboriginal members of the Airds community regarding starting a protest on this site?
None.
5. Can you confirm your own current housing situation as we’ve been informed that you live in a government-subsidised home?
6. How much rent do you pay at this property?
In respect to questions 5 and 6, I believe that my accommodation and financial affairs are of a personal nature, and have no comment in this regard. I do not receive any federal or state government rental subsidies.
via Aboriginal leaders say councillor using them as tokens in housing row.