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Several FGM staff members from the Regional Exploration and Environment & Community teams recently participated in a Malamiya Induction delivered by Dja Dja Wurrung facilitator, Jackson Dunolly-Lee, Dja Dja Wurrung man.

Malamiya means “cultural heritage” in the Dja Dja Wurrung language and the purpose of the induction was to improve the participants’ understanding, awareness of and respect for Dja Dja Wurrung Culture, through learning about their history, customs and progress regarding legislation in Victoria.

During the session, Jackson, shared about Dja Dja Wurrung’s significant places and landscapes, stories, language, customs and practices; and their strong connection to and responsibility for looking after Country.

The day also included an excursion to the English Bridge Streamside Reserve, near the Campaspe River, to learn more about different Aboriginal artefacts.

The photos below depict a scar tree that may have been used for a canoe, bowl, vessel or coolamon.

The second photo depicts a culturally modified tree or ‘ring tree’, that was often created to mark significant areas such as ovens, camps, burial places, boundaries, songlines and ceremonial areas.

Considering Malamiya in our work and everyday lives

All those who participated found the session to be very insightful, helping to improve their appreciation for the role that indigenous culture plays in the region; and how this can be considered in both their work and day-to-day lives.

The cultural heritage training and site visit also provided members with information about working on Country, ensuring everyone knows what to do if Aboriginal cultural heritage is discovered during our program planning and/or operating phases.

One trainee said: ‘It was enjoyable to hear the personal and familial perspectives of the presenter and their journey to where they are now; as well as their relationship with Country’.

Our geologists particularly enjoyed the conversations around how lithic fragments and rocks were used as tools, explaining their worth; and which specific tools from Djaara country were traded across Australia.

Committed to building our knowledge of Aboriginal culture

Fosterville Gold Mine is committed to building our knowledge of Aboriginal culture and specifically the customs of the Dja Dja Wurrung people, upon whose land the mine operates.

We will continue offering these sessions to our staff on a regular basis to ensure we gain a solid understanding and appreciation of the important role that first nations culture has to play in the healthy future of our region.