News Article

Murawin contributes to the development of the Special Activation Precinct Moree Master Plan, outlining a 40yr strategy for the region

10 May 2022

Moree is rich agricultural Country and is home to the Gamilaroi/Gomeroi people. Murawin had the pleasure of recently working on Gamilaroi Country when collaborating with the Department of Planning and Environment, in conjunction with the Moree Plains Shire Council and Department of Regional NSW, to assist in developing the Special Activation Precinct Moree Master Plan.

The Special Activation Precinct Moree Master Plan was published in March 2022 and outlines a 40-year strategic plan for the region.

With national and global connections by road, rail and air, the Master Plan supports diversification of Moree’s proud agricultural economy by building on its strong connection to Country and sustainable water endowments. The Plan also fosters world class opportunities to value-add, embrace new technologies and develop innovative energy solutions.

In the development of the Special Activation Precinct Moree Master Plan, Murawin consulted with the Moree Plains Shire Council, the Department of Regional NSW, and the local First Nations community to ensure that:

  • The deep, complex, and unique Aboriginal history of the region, and the ongoing living culture within Gamilaroi Country, was integrated into the plan.
  • Connecting with Country guidelines were used to shape the Master Plan from inception.
  • The final plan delivered opportunities for change, social justice, healing, and improved social and economic outcomes for First Nations people.
Image and Map Source: Moree SAP Master Plan.
Aboriginal Heritage Map.

After completing this stage of the project, Murawin’s CEO, Carol Vale shared, “Working with the Department of Planning and Environment, in conjunction with the Moree Council, the Department of Regional NSW, and the local Aboriginal community, was a productive experience”.

Ms Vale said, “It was evident that in all aspects of the project, creating long term opportunities for First Nations people was an important part of the Master Plan. We consulted with a broad range of stakeholders across the Moree Aboriginal community, and it was enriching to hear of the resilience and determination of the Gomeroi people”.

“At times, elements of this project proved quite challenging, as the majority of our consultation occurred during peak periods impacted by COVID-19. Understandably for health and safety reasons, the community was often closed, but I was very proud of the ways our team adapted and were able to successfully keep in close contact with the local Land Council,” Carol shared.

Through Murawin’s extensive consultation, the Special Activation Precinct Moree Master Plan now seeks to:

  • Retain and celebrate Moree’s proud Aboriginal culture and heritage.
  • Empower Indigenous people (such as designers and Elders) in designing the Indigenous elements in the Plan.
  • Involve the local Indigenous community in the planning and delivery of the Precinct.
  • Ensure the Precinct celebrates and protects its history and landscape values, particularly its occupation by First Australians and their connection to the land.
  • Ensure Aboriginal culturally significant places and artefacts are protected, maintained, and enhanced.
  • Promote development and Precinct design that recognises its Connection to Country.
  • Ensure the local Indigenous community benefits economically from work done in the Master Plan through job creation, skills and training, and greater access to industry.

Through the development, launch and now implementation of the Master Plan, the Department of Planning and Environment, the Moree Plains Shire Council and the Department of Regional NSW have demonstrated their commitment to supporting and growing Moree’s Aboriginal community.

We wish them the best in actioning the Master Plan. We look forward to ongoing work and collaboration in this region.

Click here to view The Special Activation Precinct Moree Master Plan or to learn more about Murawin’s services, visit www.murawin.com.au.