Recognition of Murujuga Rock Art as a Heritage Site
Environmentalists and traditional owners have expressed hope that the recognition of the Murujuga rock art landscape in Western Australia as a heritage site will bring global attention to concerns about industrial pollution affecting ancient cultural artifacts. The area, known for its vast collection of engravings, was recently added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites following efforts by the federal government.
The Murujuga rock art landscape is home to over one million engravings, some of which are estimated to be more than 50,000 years old. These carvings hold immense cultural significance for the First Nations people of the region. The inclusion of the site on the UNESCO list highlights its importance not only to Australia but also to the world.
Prior to this recent success, the site was submitted for World Heritage status in 2023. However, the application was sent back in May due to concerns about the impact of nearby industrial activities. Specifically, acid emissions from the Woodside Burrup gas hub were identified as a potential threat to the rock art. This facility has recently received provisional approval to continue operating for another 40 years, raising further concerns among environmental groups and local communities.
Despite these challenges, the federal and state governments, along with the Murujuga Cultural Landscape, have celebrated the achievement. The recognition is seen as a significant step forward in preserving the cultural heritage of the region. However, not all traditional owners share in this celebration. Some who attended the decision-making process in Paris expressed disappointment over the lack of protections against industrial activity.
Raelene Cooper, a Mardathoonera woman and traditional custodian of Murujuga, emphasized the need for greater scrutiny. “Global scrutiny will now be applied to what is happening at Murujuga,” she said. She argued that industry and culture cannot coexist, stating, “It’s never happened. It never works.”
Kelly O’Shanassy, chief executive of the Australian Conservation Foundation, echoed these sentiments. She called for the federal environment minister to reject the extension of Woodside’s gas project, highlighting that the world is now watching the situation closely.
Environment Minister Murray Watt reaffirmed his government’s commitment to protecting the site for future generations. “It has been a great privilege to support the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Murujuga to see this globally significant cultural landscape included on the World Heritage List,” he said.
Peter Hicks, chair of the Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation, described the recognition as an “exceptionally proud moment.” He acknowledged the hard work of the corporation in advancing the nomination and highlighted the long-standing stewardship of the land by ancestors over the past 50,000 years.
The inclusion of Murujuga on the UNESCO list represents a major victory for those working to protect the region’s cultural heritage. However, ongoing efforts will be needed to ensure that the site remains free from industrial threats and continues to be preserved for future generations.
