A team from the ARC Training Centre for Archaeology in the Resources Sector explores cultural heritage partnerships and training opportunities in inland western Queensland
In July, the Training Centre’s Director, Deputy Research Lead and Business and Operations Manager visited industry Partner Organisations and Traditional Owner groups in Cloncurry, gaining valuable insights into cultural heritage management matters in the region, and the potential for future training opportunities for PBCs.
The team were introduced to South32’s Cannington mine along with visiting the Yulluna and Mitakoodi PBCs to explain the Training Centre and answer questions about potential opportunities for research projects. The team also discussed topics such as the importance of Keeping Places in cultural heritage management and mining industry contexts, in particular preserving and interpreting cultural materials. Traditional Owner representatives we met described how artefacts are carefully stored on Country, supported by interpretation signage and provenance records that link artefacts to specific locations through GPS mapping. These facilities not only safeguard cultural materials but also help maintain stories, knowledge, and cultural connections for future generations.
Discussions also focused on areas of interest and concern that people would be open to exploring more as part of our collaborative research programs. Discussions with Traditional Owners focused on understanding what aspects of training would be useful for them as part of the soon-to-be designed Flinders University training program. A key theme emerging from the visit was the growing need for practical Traditional Owner training in Cultural Heritage Management Plans (CHMPs), particularly report writing and the use of standardised templates. Strengthening these capabilities will help Traditional Owner groups engage more effectively in cultural heritage assessment and management processes across the resources sector.
The visit also showcased how cultural heritage management is being integrated with broader sustainability initiatives, including renewable energy developments, ranger programs, biodiversity conservation, and landscape reconstruction projects. Our conversations also focused on discussing the potential for emerging technologies such as LiDAR and other geospatial tools to support heritage identification and protection.
For the Training Centre team, the visit reinforced the importance of building strong partnerships between Traditional Owners, industry, and researchers to support culturally informed heritage management and create meaningful training and employment pathways for future generations.
The ARC Training Centre for Archaeology in the Resources Sector works collaboratively with Traditional Owners, industry partners, and researchers to advance best practice cultural heritage management across Australia.
