Today there are two groups that represent Aboriginal Traditional Owners of the Black Range area to whom we pay our respects: Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, and Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation.
‘The story of Gariwerd begins with the creation of the land by Bunjil, the creator-being of the Aboriginal people of south-eastern Australia’
Howitt A.W., the native tribes of South Eastern Australia, MacMillan, London, 1904: 289-291.
The only known rock art figure of Bunjil is at Bunjils Shelter on the west side of Black Range, which has exceptional significance for the present Aboriginal people of western Victoria.
For a history of the Bunjil’s Shelter site -
For recent insights into the interpretation of Bunjil’s Shelter -
Bunjils Shelter is within Black Range Scenic Reserve and currently managed by Parks Victoria. Information to visit can be found on the Parks Victoria website.
‘Bunjil was the main Dreaming Being of south eastern Australia. He produced many of the natural features of the landscape, and gave the various tribes their particular country. He also provided the laws, customs and rites with which to organise Aboriginal society. Bunjil was important in boys’ initiation into manhood, and he was also the guardian of the secret lore. At the end of his time on earth, he rose into the sky where he is represented by a star.’
https://www.firstpeoplesrelations.vic.gov.au/fact-sheet-aboriginal-rock-art, accessed 21 Nov 2022BRLMG acknowledges that Traditional Owners hold cultural obligations to care for their ancestral Country, and have long used fire in Cultural ways to maintain and manage connection with Country.
For further information -
Protection of Aboriginal cultural values/sites is required when managing the Black Range landscape and implementing all works. For further information on how to identify potential Aboriginal cultural heritage sites and how to protect them go to:
Information relating to any potential risk to cultural heritage sites can be found at Landcare Victoria.
