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Report of the Bega Valley Shire Council Region Old Path Ways And Trails Mapping Project - March 2005

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There were important path ways throughout the region. Some used mountain passes to go to the Monaro and High Country of the Australian Alps. These were used for thousands of years by the coast Aboriginal people to go to the Bogong ceremonies in the mountains, just as the inland people went to the coast for events like the whale ceremonies. Substantial parts of these ways still exist in wild country, in National Parks and State Forests.

It is of great significance that you can still walk from the highest part of the country to the coast through relatively natural surroundings following path ways used traditionally for millennia. The distance is generally less than 250 kilometres. Considerable parts of some east – west ways are today away from made roads, the remainder along trails and minor country roads that have essentially followed the routes of the old ways.

The main north – south ways are for the most part today followed by main roads. A map of the Bega Valley Region Historic Path Ways and Trails has been compiled from old maps and journals and cultural sources to show the major ways.

The Koori people of this region recognise they have a remarkable history and believe this should be acknowledged along with the more recent shared history. They say many of their practices are remarkable and unique, even in a world context. Some stuff has to be kept private, but the general stories should be recognised through all levels of community. They can give the region a stronger focus and character, just as for example the unique character of the desert people gives central Australia its renowned world-wide reputation.

This area includes Yuin, Ngarigo and Bidawal country. Things were different here. The people had their own ways and designs. Their stories illuminate humanity’s relationship with nature. Where else in the world were there gatherings like those for the Bogongs? Where else anything like the association with Orcas and whale hunting in Twofold Bay?

The old ways are symbolically important to Kooris of the region because they reinforce the connections that have always existed. Their official recognition would apparently help break down the sense of loss and isolation that comes where people have of necessity to live at some distance from their own country, and lend weight to cultural renewal. In short, the more the historical sources are researched the more the ways become certain. 

Similarly, the more they are investigated on the ground, the more evidence is discovered. Therefore it is recommended a Koori-managed project extending from the coast to the Monaro and High Country be undertaken to investigate the connections more, both on the ground and in further research, especially in relation to sites and biodiversity. It is vital to conserve, preserve and manage what still remains, as some parts are regarded as sensitive to disturbance.

It is also recommended that parts of some ways be protected, while others could be appropriately developed for public use, education and enjoyment. The full potential of these ways in cultural and tourist terms is yet to be assessed, but in greater regional terms there are some corridors that could well deserve the highest heritage status.

 The Bundian Way

Eden Pathways