One of Victoria’s most treasured sites within the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape is in for a state-of-the-art upgrade thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.
On Friday, Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford toured the site set to be developed into a world-class visitor experience at Tae Rak, through $7 million from the Victorian Budget 2022/23.
Funded over two years, the project will deliver an education space to encourage visitors to learn about the Gunditjmara people – the Traditional Owners of the Budj Bim region.
The project strongly aligns with the strategic pillars of the Visitor Economy Recovery and Reform Plan, acknowledging the need to strengthen the tourism offering of First Peoples’ led experiences and nature-based attractions to attract more visitors to regional Victoria.
The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape has formally been recognised on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is the only Australian World Heritage site listed exclusively for its Aboriginal cultural values.
This new project will support up to 11 jobs during construction and the funding builds on $12 million provided by the Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund in establishing Budj Bim as a cultural tourism destination.
Identified as part of the updated Budj Bim masterplan, the new experiences will complement the Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre set to open to the public on 1 July 2022.
The Aquaculture Centre is also strengthening and maintaining the Gunditjmara community’s connections to the traditional practice of kooyang (eel) farming and smoking for future generations.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford
“As the only Australian site to be listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list solely for its Aboriginal cultural values – this project will enable more people to learn and reflect.”
“Budj Bim is historically and culturally unique, I look forward to seeing the new space provide more understanding about the deep history of the Gunditjmara people and the connection they have with this land.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“Budj Bim is incredibly important to Victoria and the nation – not just for its stunning landscape but the role it plays in the history, culture and knowledge of the Gunditjmara People. I’m proud that the Andrews Labor Government is investing in new infrastructure which will support sustainable and educational tourism.”
Quotes attributable to Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation Acting CEO Denis Rose
“Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation welcomes the Victorian Government’s investment to further protect the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape and raise awareness of the landscape significance.”
“Funding for tourism infrastructure helps to ensure both locals and visitors alike, can learn about and understand the history of the area and ensure it is looked after for many years to come.”