allowing over 55s to relocate or downsize to a serene and secure village in Ngunnawal All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Grove is a vibrant retirement community developed and managed by Keyton and a clubhouse that hosts regular social events Forty-five new independent living villas are under construction with only nine still available for purchase Keyton development manager Sarah Forbes said three-bedroom villas with single or double garages remain on the market and with limited retirement unit stock in Canberra at the moment this could be the last chance to buy something like this," Forbes said The Grove is just a few minutes from the Ngunnawal shops and Casey Market Town providing a short walk or drive to supermarkets Forbes said The Grove also has on-site and nearby exercise options "It's in close proximity to the golf course lovely walking paths throughout the village "One of the benefits is that the village is established with amenities ready for residents." The development also includes the transformation of the historic Gold Creek Homestead into a purpose-built multi-amenity and function space that will house arts and crafts classes the homestead will provide a peaceful retreat for residents to relax in while maintaining existing historical pieces such as stone bench seating and tiered grass areas that will host concerts "Gold Creek Homestead is quite a prominent building that is located within the village," Forbes said library and a village green are some of the many gathering points for residents A village bus is also provided for outings outside the village Keyton CEO Nathan Cockerill said The Grove offers a deep sense of community "It's a place that exemplifies the Keyton difference reflecting our ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional lifestyle communities where residents can live healthier happier and more connected lives," Cockerill said The development is due to be completed by early 2026 Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update. Don't miss updates on news about the Public Service. Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. The latest news, results & expert analysis. Your exclusive preview of David Pope's latest cartoon. Join our weekly poll for Canberra Times readers. We've selected the best reading for your weekend. Get the latest property and development news here. Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily! Play Duration: 5 minutes 40 seconds5m Brought to you by During the final leaders' debate on Monday night, leader of the opposition Peter Dutton said Welcome to Country ceremonies were "overdone." “For the opening of parliament, fair enough, it is respectful to do, but for the start of every meeting at work, or the start of a football game, I think other Australians think it is overdone and cheapens the significance of what it was meant to do,” he said. Ngunnawal knowledge holder Richie Allan frequently performs Welcome to Country ceremonies across the ACT. He told Saskia Mabin about the distinction between Welcome to Country and Acknowledgement of Country, as well as the significance of both.  "We did it for over 65,000 years when other mobs come in to our worlds and our countries, so it's not a new thing," Mr Allan said.  Ngunnawal knowledge holder Richie Allan shows off his nail polish, in the design of the Aboriginal flag.(Caroline O'Brien) Published: 12h agoSun 4 May 2025 at 11:00pm Download the ABC listen app to text and call your favourite live radio where we are privileged to live and operate The park’s impressive eagle centrepiece was designed by Ngunnawal artist Lynnice Church. The new Maliyan Park in north Watson is now open. It is located on Aspinall Street, near the Negus Crescent intersection. This new neighbourhood park celebrates Ngunnawal culture through: It was designed with the aim of sharing Ngunnawal culture while enjoying time outdoors. The park’s centrepiece is a Maliyan (wedge-tailed eagle) structure. This was designed by Ngunnawal artist Lynnice Church. The impressive structure signifies the Maliyan’s importance to the traditional custodians. It is believed she was chosen to create resources for Ngunnawal people. Other artworks include native animals and insects designed by Ngunnawal artists Jazz and Krystal Matthews from Wilay Designs. The park also features a selection of endemic plants with a special and practical connection to Ngunnawal community and culture. Visitors will find play equipment for a range of ages and play styles. There is nature play, swings, slides, climbers and spinners. Older children and adults can make use of exercise equipment and a kick-around space. Maliyan Park is a unique space for local families to play, relax and learn more about Ngunnawal culture. It is part of the Section 76 Watson site that will provide for: Section 76 was developed in consultation with the community. This includes input from the Dhawura Ngunnawal Caring for Country Committee. There is play equipment for a range of ages and play styles. Kendrick Lamar will headline Spilt Milk 2025 in Canberra on Saturday 13 December. Funding has been provided to over 2,500 Canberra families through the Future of Education Equity Fund. This National Volunteer Week, learn about some of our local volunteers. Construction will begin soon on the new South Tuggeranong Health Centre in Conder. We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region. Our CBR is the ACT Government’s key channel to connect with Canberrans and keep you up-to-date with what’s happening in the city. Our CBR includes a monthly print edition, email newsletter and website. You can easily opt in or out of the newsletter subscription at any time. Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueInvestigators have released CCTV images of the alleged burglars involved in the incident last month An ACT Policing spokeswoman alleged one of the men was armed with a gun while the other two carried baseball bats They are accused of breaking into a Ngunnawal home Police alleged the group assaulted one male occupant who was in the home during the incident Images from security cameras outside the property show the alleged armed burglars one occupant was assaulted and was later transported to hospital with minor injuries," the spokeswoman said A CCTV image shows one of the burglars carrying one of the items reported stolen Picture suppliedShe said police had made extensive enquiries and were now seeking the public's help to identify the allegedly armed perpetrators caught on security cameras Police were urging people with information about the identities of the three men to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or on the Crime Stoppers ACT website Email me on bageshri.s@canberratimes.com.au or send confidential tips to bageshri.s@proton.me Today's top stories curated by our news team Don't miss updates on news about the Public Service Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters Your exclusive preview of David Pope's latest cartoon Join our weekly poll for Canberra Times readers We've selected the best reading for your weekend Get the latest property and development news here tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert Your digital replica of Today's Paper Test your skills with interactive crosswords The best local news sent straight to your inbox every workday Make a donation and support the future of journalism and media diversity in the ACT A new neighbourhood park based on local Ngunnawal culture through artwork and nature has opened on Aspinall Street in Watson ahead of a housing development The centrepiece of the park is a Maliyan (Wedge-tailed Eagle) structure designed by Ngunnawal artist Lynnice Church which signifies the importance of the Maliyan to traditional custodians who believe she was chosen to create resources for Ngunnawal people Other artworks in the park include native animals and insects designed by Ngunnawal artists Jazz and Krystal Matthews from Wilay Designs The ACT government says the park also features a selection of native plants that have a special and practical connection to Ngunnawal community and culture as well as play equipment for a range of ages and play styles The new park is part of the Section 76 Watson site that will provide for about 200 new dwellings including a demonstration housing project of about 20 to 30 dwellings there’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in Canberra If you trust our work online and want to enforce the power of independent voices Every dollar of support is invested back into our journalism to help keep citynews.com.au strong and free Become a supporter 21-year-old Jamie Barry and 29-year-old Elliot Smith-Benzie are urgently being sought by police Jamal Fogarty has opened up on informing coach Ricky Stuart he would be leaving Canberra to accept a lucrative contract at Manly for 2026 Labor will move to cut student debt as its first re-election priority with the prime minister claiming a mandate to press forward with housing reform Situated on Ngunnawal Country in the expanding suburb of Taylor the school celebrates its connection to the land through close collaboration between CK Architecture and five talented First Nations artists whose work is thoughtfully interwoven into the design of the school 26 Feb 2025 • 2m read • View Author Situated on Ngunnawal Country in the expanding suburb of Taylor, the school celebrates its connection to the land through close collaboration between CK Architecture and five talented First Nations artists, whose work is thoughtfully interwoven into the design of the school.Aunty Agnes Shea High School in Gungahlin is a landmark project that integrates First Nations art and culture into its design. Rooted, resilient, resonant: Off-grid family living amongst the rugged Australian landscape Using DecoBatten®’s latest profile on The Seaside Sanctuary Solid Nordic softwood in interior design: Sustainable solutions for joinery, flooring and wall panelling Construction of resort-style clubhouse begins at AVID’s over 50s lifestyle precinct in Fraser Coast Sign up to our newsletter for the latest industry news, products and inspiration. Play Duration: 12 minutes 23 seconds12m Brought to you by Ngunnawal Traditional Custodian, Caroline Hughes AM, joined Mornings to say Yuma, give an update on the revival of the Ngunnawal language, and teach some too. Ms Hughes said it makes her "heart proud to see people trying" to learn and speak Ngunnawal language. "When you consider the NAIDOC theme this year — 'Keep the fire Burning! Blak, loud and proud' — how right, for language, that we be loud and proud about our beautiful language that is being shared across Canberra for all Canberrans," she said. Starting in NAIDOC week you will hear Ms Hughes and Ngunnawal man Cheyne Halloran across all ABC Canberra programs welcoming you to Ngunnawal land in language. "It's ok to be a part of a beautiful culture that is for all Australians. I have heard over time 'Welcome to Country? I am an Australian! Why am I sitting in an audience being welcomed to my own country?'," Ms Hughes said. "Well, it's not about welcoming Australians to their own country, it's an invitation to be a part of a beautiful ancient tradition. It's an opportunity to be part of the deep sacredness and the enduring connections the Ngunnawal have with our home of belonging." Caroline Hughes is the Executive Director of Collection Services at The Australian Institute Of Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander Studies, which has been working with the Winanggaay Ngunnawal Language Group since 2018 to revive the Ngunnawal language.  She taught listeners how to say thank you in Ngunnawal, it is Dhjan Yimaba.(Supplied by: Caroline O'Brien) Artwork by Eddie Longford at the entrance to Rabaul Lane the City Renewal Authority celebrates the history culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians We acknowledge the significance of NAIDOC Week's 2024 theme Loud and Proud,’ which symbolises the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations cultures The Authority is committed to integrating First Nations perspectives and stories into the fabric of our City Centre This is crucial in creating truly inclusive and engaging spaces that reflect our shared history A prime example of how we are integrating First Nations perspectives into the landscape is Ngamawari the new 30,000sqm park coming to the Acton Waterfront Ngamawari goes beyond being just a beautiful park; it will be a powerful symbol of Canberra's Ngunnawal heritage The park will feature stunning native gardens and artworks designed by local Ngunnawal artists These artworks will not only enhance the park but also share Ngunnawal culture with future generations Ngamawari further exemplifies this vision by utilising Ngunnawal soil from the developing suburb of Whitlam This ensures the park's very foundation is Ngunnawal land A 2023 workshop featuring local Ngunnawal artists has helped develop early concepts for public art to be installed at Ngamawari.  Our City Centre is already home to beautiful public artworks by First Nations creatives These contributions enrich our spaces and ‘keep the fire burning’ when it comes to cultural expression These artworks bring cultural stories to life, sparking curiosity and understanding of Ngunnawal traditions. Artists like Lynnice "Letty" Church (image below), Eddie Longford, and Yarrudhamarra Creations have all contributed unique perspectives to the City Centre The Authority’s work is supporting and encouraging such public art projects that instil Ngunnawal culture in the tapestry of our City Centre fostering a sense of place and connection to history The mural artwork Mura (Pathways) by local Ngunnawal artist Lynnice ‘Letty’ Church was featured in Garema Place in 2024 Our team is committed to creating welcoming and inclusive spaces for all Canberrans and recognising First Nations cultures is fundamental to this goal By actively collaborating with First Nations communities and incorporating their knowledge into our design process we can create places that not only celebrate our shared history and reflect Canberra's diverse cultures but also foster a deep sense of place This collaborative approach ensures our streetscapes are not just best-practice in terms of walkability but also culturally rich and meaningful for all Canberrans Renewing the City Centre also offers a significant opportunity to raise the visibility of local First Nations cultures and support progress towards reconciliation Ngunnawal Elder Dr Caroline Hughes AM hosting the naming ceremony for Ngamawari the Ngunnawal-themed park that will exemplify how First Nations community members can shape urban design.  Visit the NAIDOC Week website for more information on this year’s celebration. Acton Waterfront fences removed until construction recommences early 2026 Play Duration: 8 minutes 50 seconds8m Brought to you by You might walk past without realising exactly what you're passing by.Exposed sandstone rock in the ground, with grooves. This is the site of the Heritage Listed Theodore Grinding Grooves. Ngunnawal Traditional Custodian Wally Bell walks you through how they demonstrate past Aboriginal lifestyles and technologies. ABC Canberra Afternoons producer Imogen McDonald joined Wally at the grinding grooves.  Ngunnawal Traditional Custodian Wally Bell at the grinding grooves.  All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueWitnesses reported the incident to police about 1.30pm "Police were called to the Gungahlin Library after receiving reports a man had allegedly committed an indecent act while in the library," a police spokesman said had left the library by the time officers arrived Picture by Elesa KurtzStaff and witnesses described him to police who found the man a short time later in the Gungahlin shopping centre and arrested him "He was taken into custody and will be issued with a summons to appear in court at a later date," the spokesman said He said people who saw the incident had been provided support services Anyone who could assist police in relation to this matter was urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website quoting 8016932 I report on crime, emergency services, police and jail matters. Email me on bageshri.s@canberratimes.com.au or send confidential tips to bageshri.s@proton.me CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) Emma Laverty’s Project Dust cultural dance group performance will explore cultural identity and collaboration Eight local First Nations artists will receive a share in over $100,000 in funding to support their creative work The ACT Government’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts Program helps fund self-determined activities led by local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and communities it helps develop creative works that reflect Canberra’s culture and identity It also aims to help build artistic and cultural leadership Self-determined projects eligible for funding can include: Senior Ngunnawal Elder Aunty Violet Sheridan will receive $15,000 to write an autobiographical manuscript She will work with the support of a professional writer to draft Roots Reclaimed: A Journey of Identity Aidan Hartshorn will receive $15,000 for glass mentorship His work will focus on Walgalu Country and cultural objects for his project Water Futures Emma Laverty will receive $15,000 to explore cultural identity and collaboration through dance “This grant will mean we can continue to provide pathways in the arts for our young people Pathways that directly relate to our culture and link to building strength and confidence in our next generations,” Emma said “We can build on what we have developed and now open new doors realising our dreams to be behind the theatre curtain and provide our first performance season to the community.” Aunty Dr Tjanara Goreng Goreng and Uncle Dr Paul Collis will receive $10,000 in funding This will help them carry out two community cultural development sessions on poetry writing They will also produce a showcase of poetry through performance at two venues The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Arts Program launched last year inspire and foster ACT First Nations creatives to pursue their art explore their culture and present their works to the community The ACT Government is committed to building stronger partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists The program helps to do this through shared culture and arts practices “Opportunities such as these are unique and the positive flow-on effects to other aspects of our Project Dust community cannot be understated We are building a confident and connected community that we are proud of,” Emma said “With the assistance of the ACT Government we look forward to seeing our young mob reach new heights and further develop with our local arts community.” Find details about the program and the other successful applicants on the artsACT website Senior Ngunnawal Elder,  Aunty Violet Sheridan will use her funding to write Roots Reclaimed: A Journey of Identity Kendrick Lamar will headline Spilt Milk 2025 in Canberra on Saturday 13 December Funding has been provided to over 2,500 Canberra families through the Future of Education Equity Fund Construction will begin soon on the new South Tuggeranong Health Centre in Conder We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region Our CBR is the ACT Government’s key channel to connect with Canberrans and keep you up-to-date with what’s happening in the city You can easily opt in or out of the newsletter subscription at any time Aunty Violet Sheridan says the Victorian senator ‘does not speak for me and my people’ and called yelling of ‘fuck the colony’ inappropriate A Ngunnawal elder has rebuked Lidia Thorpe over her confrontation with King Charles saying the Victorian senator doesn’t speak for her people and that her comments of “fuck the colony” were “disrespectful” Read moreSheridan said when she greeted Charles and Queen Camilla “it was all from the heart and I said, ‘I warmly welcome the majesties to Ngunnawal land and also to Canberra,’ and it had just ended, and then she’s jumped out. “Lidia Thorpe does not speak for me and my people, and I’m sure she doesn’t speak for a lot of First Nations people. It was disrespectful to come there and go on like that, there’s a time and place.” The elder acknowledged the pain and suffering brought by colonisation and the legacies still being felt but she said coming together as a nation would “bring healing”. “We have a lot of unfinished business but I don’t want to be negative,” Sheridan said. “Let’s sit down and talk together, for our next generations to bring healing.” The royal couple are touring Australia and Samoa this week and are expected to face opposition from some First Nations people who oppose the monarchy. Wayne Coco Wharton was in the Australian capital on Monday for what he called a day of resistance against the visit, and calling for the acknowledgment of massacres and violent dispossession in Canberra. Wharton said he wanted to give the king an international criminal court notice for genocidal crimes but said he had been barred from getting close to the monarch. “This is resistance,” he said, calling himself “an adversary on behalf of sovereign nations”. “I tried to explain to the authorities, I was trying to serve a document on the king of England,” the Kooma man told Guardian Australia. He said Britain had failed to acknowledge the country’s history and its legacy. “All the advantage, all the wealth … is through the direct results of massacres, wars and genocide of First Nations people.” Thorpe – a Gunnai, Gunditjmara and Djab Wurrung woman – said in a statement she had met and was supported by traditional owners and that she had backing from First Nations people around the country. “This morning before the event in Parliament, I met with and was supported by Ngambri Ngunnawal Traditional Custodians from that Country, and I have the support from Blak Sovereign Movement Elders from around the whole country,” she said. “I take the lead from the Blak Sovereign Movement. “The King is not our Sovereign, he’s not our King. I have been requesting meetings with him, but was ignored. Today I felt it was right to speak up on behalf and the Blak Sovereign Movement to call out genocide and the invasion and theft of our lands, waters and skies by the Crown.” Ngunnawal artist Bradley Mapiva Brown’s artwork is entitled Ngala Dhawura. As Canberrans enter Canberra Hospital’s new Welcome Hall, they will be met by two new artworks by local Aboriginal artists. These commissioned works acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as Traditional Custodians of Canberra and the region. They also recognise the contributions of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community in the ACT. The Welcome Hall is part of the hospital’s new Critical Services Building. It replaces the hospital’s reception in Building 2. The Critical Services Building will open to the public in August 2024. In designing the building, the ACT Government engaged closely with the Ngunnawal people and Canberra’s local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. This has helped ensure it is a welcoming, safe space for these communities. Lynnice Church is a Ngunnawal, Wiradjuri and Kamilaroi artist. Her artwork Healing Journey is displayed at the Welcome Hall entrance. It includes 24,073 colourful metal discs. Each is attached by hand to a metal frame that stretches across the front and back entrance of the hall. The artwork acknowledges Canberra Hospital’s role as a place for healing. It depicts health journeys, and the roles family, community, specialists and health staff play in supporting patients. Ngunnawal artist Bradley Mapiva Brown’s artwork is entitled Ngala Dhawura. The wooden sculpture represents the connection to sacred woodlands of Ngunnawal country, where the Critical Services Building stands. The woodlands are a healing place for the Ngunnawal people. They hold many cultural resources, such as traditional tools and bush medicines that have long used to maintain health and well-being. Ngala Dhawura is located above a corridor connecting the new building to the existing hospital. Art is an important part of the building’s design and will feature throughout. In addition to the artwork, design features of the Critical Services Building include: Lynnice Church’s artwork adorns both entrances of the Welcome Hall. Non-Indigenous Australians need to take accountability for unconscious racism and biases before our nation can achieve reconciliation, Ngunnawal woman and Co-Chair of the ACT Reconciliation Council, Selina Walker has said. Speaking at the 2024 Reconciliation Lecture at The Australian National University (ANU), Walker allowed the spirit of her ancestors to flow through her powerful address. “As a beautiful black woman in Australia, I have only been counted as a human being for 57 years,” Walker said, referring to the 1967 referendum, in which Australians voted yes to counting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as part of the population. It’s a painful history Walker doesn’t want repeated. “It does hurt me that my grandmother was a mother in this country before she was a human being. I ask you to think about how old you are, how old your children are, how old your elders are and what you’re doing to contribute to the reconciliation human rights movement.” Walker’s grandmother, Aunty Agnes Shea, was the most senior Ngunnawal elder living on Ngunnawal land, before her passing earlier this year. Her leadership has shaped Walker’s determination to create change, particularly in the education space. Reflecting closely on her own experiences, Walker shared the cultural disconnect that can come from learning about First Nations history in school through a non-Indigenous lens. “My first experience of my own culture was in Year Seven by a white person, and all we did was clapsticks. I didn’t want any other kid to go through that experience,” Walker said.   “My grandma has always instilled in me that education is a pathway. As an Aboriginal person, you have to work twice as hard because we have to prove ourselves to white people. I do a lot of work in the education space, trying to shift that mindset of our teachers.” Fighting for First Nation youth runs in Walker’s bloodline. She herself has the kinship of eight boys, “hence the grey hair”. Her commitment to caring was officially honoured when she received Barnardo’s ACT Mother of the Year award in 2017. She was also named the 2024 ACT Local Hero at the Australian of the Year Awards. Walker hopes the next generation will be able to experience the outcome of her hard work beyond these accolades.   “I don’t want my boys and my little cousins to be standing up here in 2030, fighting and advocating for the same things that I am today, that my grandmother has done for the last 60 years, and my ancestors for the last 200 years. That change happens with us,” Walker said. “We’ve got to stop this. It is a shared history, so there has to be shared accountability.” Walker compared the pain of colonisation to an amputated leg—a missing piece that will take a collective effort to make whole.   “I know things about my culture that nobody has ever told me – it came from my ancestors. “This is why we still feel the pain of colonisation, why we feel the torture of the massacres. It’s through that amputated limb. We still endure the hurt from the Stolen Generation.” While the journey toward reaching reconciliation is, at times, painfully slow, Walker has hope that we can continue to move in the right direction. “There’s a lot of healing to be done. But it’s through that amputated limb that this work is happening,” Walker said. For non-Indigenous Australians, that means re-thinking biases. “It’s not your fault that you are racist, but it’s that unconscious biases and racism you need to question,” Walker said. “Give yourself permission to let go of any guilt, because anything driven by guilt is not actually going to be productive or have better outcomes. It’s that genuine understanding, learning and listening that’s going to influence change.” Top image: Selina Walker. Photo: Jamie Kidston/ANU Former ABC journalist Stan Grant discussed the defeat of the Voice in a powerful 2023 JG Crawford Oration. First Nations Gender Justice Institute a first for Australia and to be chaired by Dr June Oscar. Since childhood, Professor Peter Yu has been aware of the gaps that exist for First Nations people. With an extensive career of inciting change, he isn’t slowing down now. Members of the project team will attend the Ngunnawal Neighbourhood Oval community pop-up to discuss the upgrades with the community Design work to upgrade the Ngunnawal Neighbourhood Oval has begun the oval will benefit from improved parking arrangements and lighting and the addition of amenities The new carpark design is expected to be finalised in the coming months the Ngunnawal Neighbourhood Oval will be added to the ACT Government sportsground booking system The accessible toilet and LED sportsground lighting will only be available to those with bookings for the oval Find more at: https://www.cityservices.act.gov.au/Infrastructure-Projects/programs/sportsground-improvements If you’re interested in finding out more about the upgrade Members of the project team will be there to discuss the works and answer questions What: Ngunnawal Neighbourhood Oval community pop-up If you’re unable to attend the pop-up, you can contact the project team via email at communityengagement@act.gov.au The following speech was delivered by Ngunnawal Elder Dr Caroline Hughes AM at a naming ceremony on 30 November 2023, which saw the Ngunnawal community gift a new name to the future Acton Waterfront public park The park will be known as Ngamawari (‘nar-mar-wa-ree’) In the spirit of well-being and coming together with respect everyone Canberra is Ngura Dhawaurawai – Ngunnawalwari home of Ngunnawal since time immemorial I acknowledge all First Nations people as well non-Indigenous people – all Elders both past and present I pay my respect to the seven clans represented here today I also extend respects to our neighbours – Wiradjuri Ngarigo Yuin and Gundungarra peoples Image: Ngunnawal Elder Dr Caroline Hughes AM at the 30 November naming ceremony Canberra is a Ngunnawal word meaning meeting place A place where Ngunnawal hosted our neighbours for gatherings for ceremonial practices that included opportunities to share and care for each other Where we lived and embodied the spirit of love and care of all practicing yinjumarra – deep respect and deep intensive listening to understand – not to respond including our environment and all living creatures Where we understood that living in harmony meant working together as a collective – galambany – putting the greater Yadhung (good) above the needs of self Where we lived in harmony with each other and the world around us – interactions of law where Parliament House stands today As well as learnings and teachings of history dancing and stories as well as other law and initiation ceremonies education was part of everyday life – connecting through stories that were shared to gain knowledge and understanding that we thrive as a collective community – not individualistic worldviews Image: Ngunnawal community representatives attending the special event I am especially honoured to be here with you all today for the revitalisation of our Dhawura (country) – our place to share with fellow Canberrans and visitors Ngamawari reflects the truth telling story of this place … a place of significance to our people - Ngunnawal people There is so much Ngunnawal history in this place that has not been told such as the limestone caves (Ngamawari) that have been hidden by Lake Burley Griffin and the city buildings All created at a time when Ngunnawal were excluded from the conversation and development of Canberra. The significance lost forever Ngamawari celebrates and educates all about Ngunnawal Country yinjumarra – love and care of all are the salient ingredients for a better and peaceful world for all Learn more about Ngamawari and the Acton Waterfront project, or join our newsletter to receive updates The future public park at the Acton Waterfront will be known as Ngamawari (pronounced ‘nar-mar-wa-ree) The name was presented by local Ngunnawal representatives at a special ceremony today which also saw the National Capital Authority (NCA) announce works approval for the new park Ngamawari – which means ‘cave place’ in Ngunnawal language – recognises the cultural significance of the limestone caves flooded during the creation of Lake Burley Griffin The name signifies these landmarks and the important role they played for shelter and art along the Molonglo River Ngunnawal Elder Dr Caroline Hughes AM said “Ngamawari reflects the truth telling story of this place – a place of significance to Ngunnawal people.” “There is so much Ngunnawal history in this place that has not been told such as the limestone caves that have been hidden by Lake Burley Griffin at a time when Ngunnawal were excluded from the conversation and development of Canberra “Ngamawari celebrates and educates all about Ngunnawal Country City Renewal Authority CEO Malcolm Snow said the idea to recognise Ngunnawal culture has been a popular theme in public consultations on the Acton Waterfront project “We have been working closely with the Ngunnawal community representatives and artists on how the park’s design can celebrate and embed Ngunnawal culture and history,” Mr Snow said “It is now a great honour to accept this Ngunnawal-language name which will help forge the identify for what will become a major Canberra destination featuring an adventure playground “Thank you to the Ngunnawal community for giving this name to the Acton Waterfront– it is precious gift that will leave its mark on future generations of visitors to the park.” The City Renewal Authority wishes to thank the United Ngunnawal Elders Council Dhawura Ngunnawal Caring for Country Committee and the Winanggaay Ngunnawal Language Aboriginal Corporation for sharing this name as well as their insights and knowledge of the area The official naming comes as the NCA has provided works approval for the development of the public park following their recent public consultation A tender process is currently underway for the delivery of early works in 2024 It is expected the temporary park will open to the public in 2025-26 Please note: The new park name will officially come into effect once publicly notified on the ACT Legislation Register in early 2024 culturally significant space for Canberrans and visitors the new public park celebrating Ngunnawal culture and history on the Acton Waterfront An interim park will open in 2025 while the permanent 30,000 square metre park is built The interim park will be a place for people to relax exercise and enjoy events and activities by lake The interim park will lay the foundations for the permanent park it will be a large-scale and culturally significant space for Canberrans and visitors Ngamawari is designed in partnership with local Ngunnawal community members and creatives Ngunnawal culture and history features throughout the park This includes native plantings and artworks Ngamawari (pronounced nar-mar-wa-ree) means ‘cave place’ in Ngunnawal language It was gifted by Ngunnawal community representatives in November 2023 The name recognises the cultural importance of the limestone caves that were flooded during the creation of Lake Burley Griffin The caves played provided shelter and art along the Molonglo River Ngamawari is the latest works in the Acton Waterfront project Find out more about the Ngamawari and the Acton Waterfront project. The ACT Government will work with Telstra on a plan to redevelop and reopen Telstra Tower. This will help reinstate it as an iconic Canberra visitor destination. Features will likely include a café, retail space and observation deck. It is too early to say if the tower’s renowned revolving restaurant will return. Over the past two years, Telstra has carried out planning and engaged with the community about re-developing the building. Telstra Tower has been part of the Canberra skyline for over 40 years. The company recently approached the ACT Government to consider operating it as a visitor attraction. “For many years it was a popular tourist attraction, and we believe this site can offer that again for Canberrans and visitors to our country’s capital,” Telstra CEO Vicki Brady said. “Black Mountain also has ongoing cultural significance to the Ngunnawal people, and any new development of the Telstra Tower should also reflect and incorporate this as a key element. “As a national telecommunications and infrastructure provider, Telstra does not have the expertise to develop or manage a tourist attraction, so we need a partner with the skills and local knowledge to help make that happen,” she said. “That’s why we are pleased to be entering into a partnership with the ACT Government to leverage their local expertise in running world-class tourism venues, and hope this enables the Tower to once again be open to the public.” The Government has signed a Letter of Intent with Telstra. They will work together on commercial and financial arrangements before final decisions are made on the partnership. Both will continue to engage with the Ngunnawal community and other families and stakeholders with an interest in the Tower, looking to incorporate local culture and stories. Telstra has already begun working with national design firm Architectus to look at what a modern Telstra Tower may look like as a public venue. “Our proposed design will respectfully acknowledge the significant stories of place and history bringing new life to this Canberra icon,” Architectus Principal, Sophie Cleland, said. Many Australians understandably see fire only as a danger based on collective experiences of devastating bushfires fire can also be a tool that benefits the landscape and reduces the impact of bushfires themselves “Our environment has depended on fire for thousands and thousands of years,” says Bradley Bell a Ngunnawal Traditional Custodian who practices cultural burning That’s why ANU ecologists and a cohort of New South Wales Local Aboriginal Land Councils are joining together on a project to re-introduce cultural burning in box-gum grassy woodlands and to monitor the environmental outcomes of the burns Cultural burning is when First Nations people use fire to manage the landscape in a way that benefits the whole ecosystem using Traditional Knowledge to care for Country As Senior Land Services Officer Dean Freeman explains a calm burn ensures that small animals have time to move away from the fire The fire from the lower-intensity burn triggers new growth it also aims to reduce the impact of bushfires on the ecosystem “We really want to empower First Nations communities in restoring traditional burning practices,” says Dr Elle Bowd from the ANU Fenner School of Environment and Society who is leading the research alongside Professor David Lindenmayer Their research is tracking how the environment compares before and after cultural burning takes place “These systems have been unburnt for hundreds of years so it’s critically important to monitor how they respond to the reintroduction of these kinds of practices so we can inform future monitoring programs,” explains Bowd local Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri community members led cultural burns on their respective Countries and 40 community members were sponsored to gain firefighting and safety training with the Rural Fire Service a team near the town of Boorowa made a discovery of 120 plants of an endangered small scurf-pea (Cullen parvum) which appeared after cultural burning had taken place It’s an exciting example of how a threatened species can respond positively to the burns A cultural burn at Travelling Stock Reserve near Boorowa cultural burning has multiple dimensions for First Nations practitioners: it is spiritual It’s also a way to share knowledge across generations “I think bringing two really strong knowledges together is the best way of moving forward,” Braithan Bell says intangible connection to our Country and we see Country from a different perspective but how western science collects and coordinates that data is really interesting for me.” The science backs up the work First Nations people have been doing Young and Wagga Wagga Local Aboriginal Land Councils with management support from ANU Enterprise The project is funded under the Disaster Risk Reduction Fund (DRRF) The DRRF is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments You can donate to this project at the Cultural burning in endangered grassy woodland fund This article first appeared at ANU College of Science. Elle Bowd is a Research Fellow at the Fenner School of Environment and Society at the ANU College of Systems and Society A child of the Stolen Generations, Dr Lowitja O'Donoghue went on to become one of Australia’s most prominent and respected Aboriginal leaders. ANU is honoured to receive the gift of her name for its building renaming initiative. The University has named the ANU Cultural Centre after Dr Lowitja O'Donoghue. Yorta Yorta woman Dr Lisa Conway is creating a more inclusive and culturally safe future for the Australian Public Service. Play Duration: 4 minutes 11 seconds4m 11sPresented by For the past four years, Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri Elder Uncle Billy Tompkins has been working with the specialised Circle Sentencing Courts in the ACT Magistrates Court. It's where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can have their sentencing matters heard by a Magistrate, alongside a panel of respected Elders. Story by Adrienne Francis, additional production by Lisa Herbert. Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri Elder Uncle Billy Tompkins. Published: 9 Apr 2025Wed 9 Apr 2025 at 7:01am Published: 5 May 2024Sun 5 May 2024 at 2:00pm Download the ABC listen app to hear more of your favourite podcasts That's set to changeNgambri people Paul and Leah House took the government to court in a bid to be recognised with a settlement announced this week.Dr Matilda House (left) and her son Paul Girrawah House What is an 'emerging Elder' and where did the term come from Men's sacred ceremonies preserved for generations in new digital space Anzac Day sees greater acknowledgment of Indigenous soldiers The fascinating life of WWI’s only serving Indigenous Australian woman Read about the ANU College of Science and Medicine Mental health & wellbeing » one of the world's most prestigious universities Find contact details for all general enquiries and outreach programs Research story, Student profileCool science to save cute devils: Honours student targets contagious cancer and challenges to see what Science and Medicine at ANU has to offer Industry engagement » Find out what’s happening in the ANU College of Science and Medicine NewsEngage polarisation analysers, captain! As a resident of the self-described Bush Capital I’ve long been wanting to find out more about the Indigenous connections with the land I live on So I signed up for the Ngunnawal Night Tour at Mulligans Flat in Canberra to hear from Indigenous scientists about this environment a crescent moon rises over the 20 or so of us on the Ngunnawal Night Tour of Mulligans Flat gathering around the most beautiful fire pit you’ve ever laid eyes on laser-cut with the silhouettes of animals and plants of the Mulligans Flat ecosystem “Tonight we’re walking in the footsteps of the Ngunnawal and the Ngambri people who have lived and cared for this land for 25,000 plus years,” Dhani Gilbert tells us Dhani is a Wiradjuri woman and ANU undergraduate student who regularly leads tours at Mulligans Flat But this landscape is also special because stretching through Mulligans Flat is a Ngunnawal songline This is a series of sacred stories and memory codes embedded in the landscape passed down by generations of Ngunnawal people To help connect Canberrans and tourists with nature and Country Mulligans Flat is home to a new visitors centre That’s where we start our tour with Dhani and Aaron a Gamilaraay man with close ties to Ngunnawal land runs workshops to share his Indigenous culture and environmental passion He shows our group − a mix of older and younger nature-loving Canberra locals − some of the ways that local plants can be used for food we each pick some leaves and taste the mountain pepper berry which Aaron brought along Aaron warns us that the mountain pepper will be a little spicy then has a tea-tree kind of numbness as an aftertaste He explains that this plant may have been used as an antiseptic for toothaches but it can be used for flavouring food too We sip from cups of soothing peppermint gum tea to cool our peppery mouths I feel like I should write everything down so I can remember it and talk about the plants and Indigenous tools here allows us to learn in a much more interactive way It gets embedded in your memory differently Dhani hands us each a red light torch and we start walking along the dark boardwalks of Goorooyarroo peering into the grasslands hoping to see some of the sanctuary’s small nocturnal mammals that can’t be found anywhere else in the Canberra region “That’s the first time I’ve seen a healthy barn owl out here,” says Dhani Beyond the dancing red beams that we shine out into the grasslands the eyes of a mob of eastern grey kangaroos reflect back Dhani explains how Indigenous cultural burning practices help to regenerate environments like this for the wildlife Burning the landscape encourages new grass shoot growth That’s what these kangaroos are grazing on The boardwalk of Goorooyarroo snakes through the landscape and I imagine the path is a songline itself; I connect each natural element with something I’ve learnt The kangaroos and cultural burning is another snippet of information that lodges in my brain in a consequential way I know this is a simplified form of the ancient songlines our First Nations people have but it helps me to understand the concept as a way of learning As we reach the famous predator-proof fence that allows Mulligans Flat to be such a success That sound is coming from a species of micro-bat we all are instructed to turn off our torches While we can see the lights of the suburbs behind us Up ahead, someone spots a small brown creature scurrying across the path. “It’s a quoll!” The message is murmured throughout the group, and we all stop still. There are around 50 to 80 eastern quolls living in Mulligans Flat pretty much at capacity in this environment but we feel lucky to have glimpsed its beautiful spotty coat It’s the first time many of us have ever seen a quoll before filled with awe and gratitude for this little pocket of thriving nature and First Nations history we pass by our friend the barn owl still trying its luck for a hunt “Bye owl,” one of the kids on the tour whispers Visit the Wildbark website to view upcoming tours and events at Mulligans Flat. An experimental research project led by researchers from ANU has found a new way to boost the survival rates of eastern quolls reintroduced to the Australian Capital Territory. At the age of 18 Dhani Gilbert has a powerful voice, now she is headed to ANU to pursue ecology and science communication. Play Duration: 3 minutes 20 seconds3m 20sBrought to you by There is no one alive who can speak Ngunnawal language fluently.  Rebecca King and Melissa Bell at the Winanggaay Ngunnawal Language Aboriginal Corporation want to change that. They are working with elders, the Ngunnawal community and a linguist to try and reawken the language.  Drive producer Lottie Twyford spoke to them about their work.  Rebecca King and Melissa Bell are from the Winanggaay Ngunnawal Language Aboriginal Corporation. (ABC Radio Canberra: Lottie Twyford.) More EpisodesDrivePublished: 6h agoMon 5 May 2025 at 5:00am NGUNNAWAL traditional custodian Bradley Bell has been appointed as the ACT’s first Ngunnawal water policy officer to improve the health of the region’s waterways and environment through a cultural perspective Mr Bell will work with the ACT Government’s Environment Heritage and Water Division where he aim to facilitate a close working relationship with the Ngunnawal community for the co-design of water planning and policy “I’m really excited to be working with EPSDD within Conservation and Planning and Water Policy as the Ngunnawal Water Policy Officer,” said Mr Bell “Over the next three years I will be working to improve collaboration with the Ngunnawal and broader ACT Community to improve the health of our waterways and environment with a Ngunnawal cultural perspective “It is really important that we have this opportunity to maintain and improve our waterways and environment for everyone to share.” Minister for water Shane Rattenbury welcomed Mr Bell to the role saying this and other Ngunnawal ranger positions will provide opportunities for bringing together contemporary science and traditional knowledge “First Nations knowledge is critical to our understanding of the natural environment and sustainable management of the land and water,” said Mr Rattenbury “The wisdom that we can gain from working closely with the Ngunnawal traditional custodians within this region provides great depth to our activities biodiversity conservation or policy development.” Two wanted men, 21-year-old Jamie Barry and 29-year-old Elliot Smith-Benzie are urgently being sought by police.  Jamal Fogarty has opened up on informing coach Ricky Stuart he would be leaving Canberra to accept a lucrative contract at Manly for 2026. Labor will move to cut student debt as its first re-election priority with the prime minister claiming a mandate to press forward with housing reform. Make a donation and support the future of journalism and media diversity in the ACT. Get CityNews in your inbox. Daily. The best local news sent straight to your inbox every workday!