Brewarrina Shire Council has taken an important step forward in strengthening the future of one of the country’s most significant cultural places, the ancient Baiame’s Ngunnhu (Brewarrina Aboriginal Fish Traps). The first stage in developing a new Conservation Management Plan and Heritage Interpretation Plan for the National Heritage‑listed site included on‑Country visits and community engagement last week with Ngemba Elders, Traditional Owners and local knowledge holders.

The visit formed part of Council’s Australian Heritage Grants Program project, funded by the Commonwealth Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), and delivered in partnership with heritage experts, Extent Heritage. The project aims to strengthen the long‑term protection, management and cultural interpretation of the Brewarrina Aboriginal Fish Traps, believed to be the oldest human‑made structure in the world.

During the visit, Extent Heritage specialists Dr Madeline Shanahan and Sarah Janson met with Elders and community members to listen, learn and understand local priorities for caring for the site and sharing its stories. Conversations focused on cultural protocols, community expectations and the importance of ensuring that any future works respect the deep cultural, spiritual and historical significance of the Ngunnhu.

Brewarrina Shire Council General Manager David Kirby said the consultation was a vital foundation for the project.

“Baiame’s Ngunnhu is a place of extraordinary cultural importance, and the knowledge of our Elders and community is central to how we protect it,” Mr Kirby said.

“This visit wasn’t about presenting answers; it was about listening. Elders shared cultural knowledge, concerns, aspirations and guidance that will directly shape how the Conservation Management Plan and Heritage Interpretation Plan are developed. Their voices will guide every step of this work.”

The consultation also explored opportunities for improved site recording, including geospatial mapping and digital documentation, as well as future interpretive approaches that could help visitors understand the cultural landscape in a respectful and meaningful way.

Mr Kirby said the project is not about redevelopment, but about safeguarding the site for future generations.

“This is about preservation, protection and cultural continuity. The plans we develop will help ensure the Ngunnhu is cared for properly – physically, culturally and spiritually – while supporting the community’s vision for how its stories should be shared.”

The recent visit is the first of many conversations about not only the Fish Traps but other hugely significant and important places in the region, including the State Heritage-listed Brewarrina Mission and Hospital Creek Massacre site.

Further workshops and engagement sessions will be held as the project progresses, ensuring the voices of Ngemba Elders Group and the wider Brewarrina community help to shape the future of one of Australia’s most important cultural places.