Lake Macquarie City Council has joined forces with the Biraban Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC) to conduct a preservation scheme for one of the LGA’s most scenic foreshores.
The two organisations are working together to rehabilitate the 150m strip of land at Shingle Splitters Park in Balcolyn.
Lake Macquarie City mayor Adam Shultz explained the $200,000 partnered project would include a rock revetment wall to help address the erosion problem made prominent by the violent May and June storms in 2025.
“The partnership comes out of further knowledge of the history of the land, namely the discovery of ancient Aboriginal shell middens,” he said.
“We identified Indigenous heritage items in the vicinity prior to work getting underway.
“That prompted us to contact the Biraban LALC and work closely with them throughout the project.
“By doing that, and liaising with their Aboriginal heritage officers, we were able to protect the foreshore while also respecting the area’s cultural significance.
“It’s a great example of how infrastructure ventures can be delivered in partnership with traditional custodians of our city.”
Biraban LALC chief executive officer Jamie Williams stated the organisation’s involvement brought cultural expertise to the site and helped to guide work throughout the project.
“The area is significant due to its connection to traditional Awabakal land use and social practices,” he said.
“As well as its importance as part of the broader cultural landscape.”
A proud Mr Williams said the outcome reflected a “positive and respectful” alliance with council.
“The collaborative approach has resulted in a project that not only protects cultural heritage but also strengthens relationships and sets a strong foundation for future work together,” he added.
“It represents an ongoing connection between people, place and history.”
Similar works are now underway in Pelican to help rehabilitate and stabilise sections of the foreshore.
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