Our services
Welcome To Country
It is a sign of respect to acknowledge the traditional owners of the land.
Today, it is common protocol for businesses, Local Governments, conferences and forums, official openings and ceremonies, and other events for Welcomes to Country to be performed by an Aboriginal custodian of the land. Awabakal LALC are the custodians of the lands within our boundaries, and as part of this duty we carry out Welcomes to Country on behalf of our members. Awabakal Local Aboriginal Land Council has a number of Cultural Representatives who perform Welcome to Country on its behalf.
Requests for Welcomes to Country can be made by completing an online request form. Please note requests for Welcome to Country are in high demand and should be booked in advance.
We require at least 14 days’ notice prior to your event to ensure that we have a representative available. Please allow 2-3 working days to receive your official quote/confirmation.
Please note that invoices are generally issued after the event. Let us know if you wish to have the invoice earlier.
Smoking Ceremony
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander smoking ceremonies are performed on many levels – physical, mental, emotional, spiritual.
Aboriginal Smoking’s are 60,000+ years old and are very profound ceremonies. Most cultures around the world also utilise Smoking to clear space.
There will be a mixture of Australian native plants used on the day.
You will see a vessel of smouldering leaves that have been culturally prepared. There will NOT be rooms full of smoke, or fire.
YOUR PART IN THE PROCESS
- Please be respectful when the smoke comes past
- You may take photos but please do not be intrusive
Cultural Tours
Aboriginal sites and places of significance in the Newcastle and Hunter region area are often not well known, even to locals. Newcastle and the surrounding areas are abundant in local sites and culture. and our area is home to one of the world’s largest and oldest art galleries. By showcasing some of the local sites and sharing culture Awabakal LALC will help educate people about the importance of the ongoing protection of our culture.
Awabakal LALC has access to the land and the cultural knowledge. We’re able to offer visitors and locals a rare opportunity to visit these places and learn about the Aboriginal history of the area. You don’t need to travel to the outback to experience Aboriginal culture when it is right at your back door.
Many of the sites are located in National Parks and coastal areas. Guided tours for school groups, locals, overseas visitors, and other interested parties can be organised to meet your specific needs.
Contact Awabakal LALC to organise a guided tour.
Culture & Heritage Surveys
The Awabakal Local Land Council's Cultural & Heritage Surveys identify culturally significant sites, guiding heritage planning and local government decisions to protect our heritage.
These surveys support the creation of heritage lists and preservation areas, with findings made accessible to the public to enhance awareness and appreciation of our rich cultural heritage.
