About 35 people attended the event, where National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) area manager Neale Watson opened the walk through Meroo National Park. 

“For the first time, new day use areas in Meroo National Park and the Burrill Aboriginal rock shelter are connected by a four-kilometre cultural walk,” he said. 

“The Giriwa Bagan walk extends to the Aboriginal rock shelter just outside the park so visitors can now explore the entire precinct’s cultural heritage from the Lake’s southern shore.”

Mr Watson said nine new interpretative signs illustrated by Ulladulla High School students and local Aboriginal artists are dotted along the walk and described the local Aboriginal culture past and present and their connections to the Burrill Lake area and the local plants, animals and landforms.

“Part of this project also involved developing new picnic areas along the walk, upgrading vehicle access and car parking facilities in the area,” he said. 

“It was four years of collaboration between NPWS, the Aboriginal community, and Shoalhaven City Council to make this project happen - and we are delighted with the results.” 

The project also provided members of the Aboriginal community with employment, training in track construction and bush care and an opportunity to tell their story.

Shoalhaven City Council’s environmental services manager Kelie Clarke said the celebration brought together Elders, students, NPWS and Shoalhaven City Council staff who all share a commitment to promoting the region’s ongoing cultural significance.

“Locals and visitors alike can now enjoy this site that is not only beautiful but also honors and protects one of the region’s most culturally significant sites,” Ms Clarke said.

Giriwa Bagan means ‘Goanna Country’ and honours creation stories and ongoing connection to Country and ancestor spirits.