Connecting with Country Reports
Developing connections with Country
Connecting with Country Reports are often a requirement of new developments and infrastructure projects.
Based on the Government Architect NSW’s Connecting with Country framework, they provide a framework for developing connections with Country that can inform the planning, design and delivery of built environment projects in NSW. These site specific reports are an invaluable resource to project managers, providing pathways for integration of Aboriginal perspectives into new developments.
Artefact has also experience of developing Recognise Country reports for sites in the Aerotropolis.
Consultation
Artefact is experienced in developing Connecting with Country Reports for projects throughout NSW.
We work closely with key stakeholders – Local Aboriginal Land Councils, community representatives, Councils, traditional knowledge holders, Registered Aboriginal Parties – coordinating Walks on Country, design workshops, consultation sessions, and interviews.
The key component of the Connecting with Country process is listening respectfully – listening to Aboriginal perspectives, views, narratives – and asking permission for how this valuable intangible information could inform and improve new projects.
Engagement
Our draft reports are shared with the Aboriginal stakeholders involved in the consultation program to ensure the final report is reflective of Aboriginal perspectives.
Our Connection with Country Reports are often undertaken in tandem with our Heritage Interpretation Strategies or Art Strategies, as many of the recommendations from the Connecting with Country reports relate to integrating tangible expressions of Aboriginal culture into new developments, often through interpretation or artworks.
Efficiency
The Artefact team who manage our Connecting with Country Reports consists of our experienced interpretation team, consultants experienced in strategy development and consultation management, and our Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Officers.
As all these skills reside in-house, we’re able to produce Connecting with Country reports efficiently and cost effectively.
Report inclusions
Based on the consultation outcomes, our Connecting with Country reports can include:
A summary of the Aboriginal significance and history of a site
An engagement process, and consultation log
Design Principles to guide concept design development
Cultural mapping
Statements of commitment and principles for action