LINKING TWO BAYS PROJECT

Abstract

This project aimed to provide access to information about the University locations and the link with palawa places to engage students and staff with the deep history of the island of Tasmania in Australia. Our goal was to research and prepare a palawa interpretion of both the traditional and contemporary aspects not only of the University and its campuses but, the lands occupied by the University, with a focus on Sandy Bay in the south and Burnie in the north of the island. The project was initiated as a Community Engagement project during 2017 with stakeholders highlighting the following: (1) The need for non-Aboriginal people to learn more about the contribution made to history by Aboriginal people in Tasmania; and (2) The importance of Aboriginal peoples identifying, recording and writing their own histories of self and of country. The project team comprised six members who were joined by four major Aboriginal community groups, and more than 60 people have been involved in creating the resource. We have called this project the Linking Of Two Bays to show the ongoing connection between Emu Bay in Burnie and Sandy Bay in Hobart. This resource provides greater access to a wider audience looking to learn more about Tasmania’s Aboriginal history. It is designed for everyone to use, residents, tourists, students and teachers. It will also continue to evolve with ongoing collaboration and development. By intertwining historical perspectives we share that the sites are living, that there is language and a message to be heard. The voice of the land may have diminished, but signs of a transformation are evident, and a conciliation of these voices enables real listening to ancient insights and deeper participation with place. This digital story of place project has revealed Aboriginal names, language and history of place to encourage greater understanding of the islands’ deep history. This presentation explores the research and processes involved to engage with community to create a digital resource to enhance life long learning.