Aboriginal Heritage

Aboriginal Heritage Study of the Mosman Local Government Area (2005)

Mosman is exceptional in its Aboriginal archaeological heritage.

Evidence of Aboriginal occupation can be found in all landforms across the municipality, especially in areas where little development has taken place. The rock art found around Mosman exhibits an impressive range of engraved and painted figures including hand stencils, whales, fish, macropods (kangaroos) and ancestral beings. Shell middens are found around Mosman’s foreshore, offering us glimpses into the past.

There are very few areas in metropolitan Sydney where it is possible to view such a magnificent concentration of Aboriginal heritage.

This study was designed to bring together archaeological values (identified through background research and survey) and cultural values (identified through consultation with the Aboriginal community and oral history) in a holistic assessment of Mosman’s Aboriginal landscape.

The heritage study was prepared for Mosman Council in partnership with National Parks and Wildlife Service (now part of the Department of Environment and Heritage), Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council and Sydney Harbour Federation Trust.

Aboriginal Heritage of Mosman (2010)

A guide on the Aboriginal Heritage of Mosman, providing information on geology, flora and fauna, the indigenous people of Mosman, culture, the use of the landscape and archaeological sites.

Aboriginal Heritage of Mosman Teachers’ Kit (2010)

Following the completion of the Aboriginal Heritage Study of Mosman (2005), the National Parks and Wildlife Service Harbour Area North Office, with support from the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust and Mosman Council, commissioned the production of a Teachers Kit to assist in providing resources in educating children and young people of the rich Aboriginal heritage of Mosman.

The Teachers’ Kit is made available by the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage.

More information on their website.