Connecting with Country is a state government initiative for projects of state significance which provides a framework for good practice in engaging with Aboriginal knowledge holders and responding to Country in the planning, design and delivery of projects in NSW. The framework has been informed by engagement through interviews and workshop discussions with selected stakeholders including an advisory panel of Traditional Custodians, representatives from community organisations, and government. The Government Architect NSW (GANSW) has produced a Connecting with Country guideline written by and with Aboriginal experts in spatial design in collaboration with GANSW staff. For further information on the Connecting with Country initiative Click Here (NSW Planning).
As part of developing plans and ideas for the adaptive reuse of the Berrima Gaol site the project team is consulting with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge-holders to ensure our collective vision for the site is informed by the experiences and stories of the Traditional Custodians of the land and are appropriately incorporated into design proposals.
As part of this process we would like to invite any Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander persons with connections to the site or experiences with the gaol to get in touch with the team through the contacts below so we can reach out to hear any stories you have, receive feedback on our proposals and incorporate any ideas you have for responding to Country.
