Cultural Protocol Workshop
Yinhawangka Heritage began 2026 in a new way, with a two-day Cultural Protocol Workshop held in Perth. The workshop brought people together to discuss what is culturally important to the Yinhawangka People and to commence several Yinhawangka heritage projects.
Culture First
One of the key changes introduced by YAC in 2026 was the integration of ethnographic discussions into archaeological surveys through a Culture First approach.
This approach creates dedicated time at the beginning of each survey for Yinhawangka People and YAC heritage consultants to discuss the cultural objectives and priorities for the survey area. It ensures that Yinhawangka cultural values and perspectives are considered from the outset.
Discussions have included conducting surveys in a culturally safe manner and creating opportunities for the transfer of traditional knowledge to future generations. This has involved sharing stories, visiting Aboriginal Sites, identifying culturally significant plants and demonstrating traditional skills such as spear making.
Survey teams have already engaged in meaningful cultural discussions and visited several Aboriginal Sites, including a sinkhole near the Angelo River and a stone structure of cultural significance.
YAC would like to thank Dirima Cuthbert and Dortch Cuthbert for encouraging and supporting the development of this initiative with YAC and the Yinhawangka People.