About the event

Join us for an immersive event on Friday 28 February 2025 exploring the rich layers of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage (ACH) within the context of environmental impact assessment. Set against the backdrop of the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area (BMWHA), this event offers an opportunity to engage directly with Traditional Owners and National Parks and Wildlife Service staff, gaining invaluable insights into ACH and traditional knowledge, due diligence and environmental assessment.

Why Attend

EIANZ’s ACH event is perfect for environmental professionals and enthusiasts alike.

The experience is designed to blend classroom learning with immersive field engagement, providing a holistic understanding of how Aboriginal Cultural Heritage is intertwined with environmental impact assessment. You'll gain a deeper appreciation of the responsibilities and practices involved in assessing and preserving cultural landscapes, while fostering meaningful connections to the land.

What to Expect

Event Schedule

10am – 12pm
NPWS offices with presentations encompassing issues such as understanding ACH, undertaking ACH due diligence, principles and practice of ACH EIA, case studies in ACH practice in environmental assessment. In addition to a Traditional Owner welcome and presentation, speakers will include:

• David Crust, Director, Blue Mountains Branch, NSW NPWS
• Kiama West, Acting Joint Management Co-ordinator, Blue Mountains, NSW NPWS
• Jess Wardaugh, Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Officer, Blue Mountains, NSW NPW

12pm - 1pm
Lunch

Getting there

Transport

Participants make their own way to Katoomba by train or car.

A NSW Transport bus route 686G runs between Katoomba Station to the NPWS office, as well as in the opposite direction. The bus runs every 20 minutes.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to enrich your professional knowledge and connect with the Blue Mountains’ cultural heritage.