Building a web of knowledge about Weld Range

Brendan Hamlett at work at the Weld Range

An update of research findings from the Weld Range in Wajarri Yamatji country will be presented at a public lecture next week at the Western Australian Museum – Geraldton.

Weld Range, near Cue in the Murchison region, is highly significant for the Wajarri Yamatji Traditional Owners.

It is home to the nationally heritage listed Wilgie Mia Aboriginal Ochre Mine, mined by Aboriginal people for thousands of years.

Last year Wajarri Traditional Owners and University of Western Australia archaeologists were awarded Federal Government funding for the Weld Range Web of Knowledge Project – to work together to document sites in the area.

UWA archaeologist Viviene Brown, who is one of the lecture presenters, said the Wilgie Mia Aboriginal Ochre Mine’s vibrant red ochre was traded far and wide in Aboriginal Australia, and continues to be used ceremonially today.

“The Weld Range is culturally significant and drew people to the area, leaving behind a rich archaeological landscape,” said Ms Brown.

“We’re working alongside Wajarri Traditional Owners to build a web of knowledge, by linking cultural knowledge with the evidence of physical sites.”

WA Museum – Geraldton Regional Manager Leigh O’Brien said it’s important to raise awareness about Weld Range among the local community.

“There are old camping grounds, stone tool quarries, and paintings that give an insight into how Aboriginal people lived in this part of Australia,” she said.

“It’s going to be a fascinating lecture.”

Tales from the Weld Range: A summary of Weld Range Web of Knowledge activities will be presented by UWA senior archaeologist Vicky Winton, Wajarri Traditional Owner Carl Hamlett, and Ms Brown at the WA Museum – Geraldton on Monday, 17 November at 7pm.

It’s a free event but bookings are essential via 9921 5080.

For more information visit http://museum.wa.gov.au/museums/geraldton/tales-weld-range-summary-weld-range-web-knowledge-activities