Wiradjuri man Mark Saddler has been left frustrated by ongoing vandalism at Aboriginal cultural sites at Wagga and The Rock.
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Mr Saddler said he was fine with sharing the Marrambidya Bila – the rocky bank of the Murrumbidgee River near Wagga beach, and the Kengal sloping rock formation at The Rock Nature Reserve, with residents and tourists.
However, he had been saddened by yet another round of vandalism at both sites.
Mr Saddler said he refused to describe the acts as graffiti, as there was no art to ‘tagging’ and true artists had respect for culture.
“I’m now working with National Park rangers to remove the paint and to restore this special place back to how it should be, a place that all can enjoy and respect.
“Some ask me if I get angry about this cultural vandalism; I try not to, as if I did I may be like the people who tag our places with cultural vandalism.
“I do however feel frustrated and disappointed at what some mindless people do to our ancient country, water and animals.”
A NSW Office of Environmental Heritage spokesperson said paint had been removed from signs at Kengal but attempts to remove paint from rock faces were not successful.
“National Park staff will be returning to the area to make further attempts to remove the graffiti and are keen to work with the NSW Police and local community including the Aboriginal community to reduce vandalism and protect the area’s Aboriginal heritage,” the spokesperson said.
“(Additional security measures at the site) may be an option for the future if vandalism continues.”
Mr Saddler said the vandalism was deeply distressing to the ongoing and living culture that was shared by the Wiradjuri people.
“Every Wiradjuri special place, every Wiradjuri special tree, water hole, artifact and animal all tell us ancient stories of the proud and amazing people who have cared and still care for this place we call gunyah or home,” he said.
“I ask you, the ones that are doing this defacing of Wiradjuri country, to turn your cultural vandalism into something that will connect all people and races together. Instead of tagging, create artwork that you can sell and tell your story.
“Be proud of who you are and remember those who have walked these places long before us.”
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