Aboriginal Cultural Heritage and Climbing

The current proposed closures at Arapiles/Dyurrite are primarily on the basis of Vicotria’s Aboriginal Cultural Heritage laws and their interpretation by Parks Vicotria in the management of State and National Parks.

Did you know that Queensland also has Aboriginal Cultural Heritage laws?  Importantly, there are some key differences in our law to those in Victoria with ‘safe harbour guidelines’ which if complied with mean that illegal harm under the law do not occur and their are no breaches of the law. This also provides more certainty in what is and isn't allowed.

This means that normal and responsible climbing in Queensland should not normally be contrary to or prohibited by our Aboriginal Cultural Heritage legislation.

Want to learn more? Read this comprehensive document. "A summary of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act, 'harm' under the Act and its potential impact on climbing.