GML visits the Dharug Keeping Place
Earlier this month, members of GML’s Archaeology and Heritage Places teams had the privilege of visiting the Dharug Keeping Place at Parramatta City Council.
The Keeping Place is a significant cultural facility located within PHIVE, the Council’s community, cultural and civic hub.
The team was warmly welcomed by Keeping Place Officer Karen Maber, a Cabrogal woman and respected member of the Dharug community, who guided us through the space.
Karen explained the important role of a Keeping Place as a secure and culturally appropriate site for the care and custodianship of Aboriginal cultural material—ranging from sacred and non-sacred artefacts to artworks and knowledge. Notably, the Dharug Keeping Place is the first of its kind established within a local council.
During GML’s visit, the team viewed part of the collection linked to archaeological work undertaken by our archaeolgists in Parramatta, including material uncovered during the Club Parramatta project. These investigations, conducted in collaboration with Aboriginal community representatives, revealed rare ironstone artefacts and further evidence of Parramatta’s deep time history.
Looking ahead, GML will also support the return of an artefact assemblage from excavations along Phillip Street in Parramatta—reinforcing our commitment to respectful cultural heritage management and ongoing collaboration with Aboriginal communities.
The team view material uncovered during excavation for the Club Parramatta development.
The GML team with Keeping Place Officer Karen Maber and staff from Parramatta City Council.