A landscape of cultural, natural, and environmental significance has been returned to the Tasmanian Aboriginal community through an extremely generous donation during NAIDOC Week.
Barbara and Ian Sale have handed back Dempster Creek to the Aboriginal Land Council of Tasmania, ensuring its cultural protection for generations to come.
Chair of ALCT, Greg Brown said, “It is overwhelming for the Tasmanian Aboriginal Community to have this special place returned, and particularly for NAIDOC Week when we are celebrating the next generation.
The generosity we are witnessing from our friends and allies not only shows their confidence in our cultural authority and care, but it also far exceeds any reconciliation commitments made by the government.”
Ian Sale said he is proud to have cared for Dempster Creek for over 40 years, “For people who live in Loongana, and those who visit to walk, fish, paint, discover, kayak, photograph or carry out citizen science activities, the place remains open and welcoming.
“The conservation of this place is now further strengthened. And for us, the connection with this place is undimmed.”
A beloved community space
A well-liked spot, Dempster Creek protects a White Gum Forest and rainforest species, including leatherwood, sassafras, myrtle, and blackwood, which are situated alongside vital watercourses.
However, it’s not just the plant species that are valuable. “We are thrilled to learn that a breeding pair of Masked Owls is nesting there, along with Grey Goshawks, freshwater crustaceans, including Giant Freshwater Crayfish,” said Greg Brown.
Several native mammals have also been spotted roaming, including the platypus, Tasmanian devil, and quoll.
Alongside learning about waterways and plant species, this area will serve as an essential educational resource for our junior rangers as they develop their skills in caring for Country.
The transfer of the 26 hectares includes provisions for visitors to maintain their connection to Dempster Creek, allowing for respectful recreational activities such as bushwalking, photography, observational science, art, angling, kayaking, and swimming.
Greg Brown emphasised ALCT’s commitment to honour respectful visitors, “Our relationship with Ian and Barbara, the local Landcare group, and all who value Dempster Creek will be enduring, and we are excited to care for and share this incredible Country for generations to come.”