Shoalhaven's Walking on Country exploring the local indigenous connection to country shortlisted for NSW heritage award

The four-minute short film, launched in August last year, explores personal narratives of connection to country by local individual Aboriginal community members.

The film, made by Blackfisch Films, was made possible through a partnership with the NSW Government's Heritage Near Me program and a local Aboriginal community group of collaborators, has been shortlisted in the Aboriginal Heritage category.

The film joins local architect Nicholas Powell who has also been shortlisted in the adaptive re-use category of the awards for his work on redesigning the historic Berry building at 1 Pulman Street, just north of the Berry township, which is well-known as Wilsons' Store, later the site of Berry's first hospital - the Cottage Hospital and then as a residence, into into a medical centre.

The local Aboriginal community collaborators group provided cultural advice and direction in the design and development of the storyline, which cultivates and celebrates Aboriginal culture.

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The collaborators identified seven local Aboriginal community members to take part in the project - Matt Simms, Shane Carriage, Raymond Timbery, Noel Butler, Deidre Martin, Paul McLeod and Julie Freeman.

Filmed in the Shoalhaven and capturing stunning local scenery, 'Walking on Country' captures the unique experience of what connection to country means to these individual Aboriginal community members.

The video highlights a strong message that cultural heritage is a vital element of Aboriginal people's identity, spiritual beliefs and affinity to the cultural landscape and also celebrates the cultural vibrancy and rich heritage of the film participants who share their 'living culture' with others.

Shoalhaven Mayor Anmanda Findley said it's "incredible" the heritage awards have recognised 'Walking on Country'.

"It's a prestigious award and to be listed as a finalist is a big coup for the Shoalhaven.

"Since 'Walking on Country' was released to the public it's had thousands of views Australia wide and internationally and not long after its release I even did media in Townsville about the project.

"I'm really proud the production is being recognised coming into Sorry Day, which is not too far away and Reconciliation Week...we've got the chance to celebrate our Aboriginal community even more.

"All the participants should be really proud of the work they put in and the final product."

Cr Findley said the beautiful and emotive portrayal of local Aboriginal community members, showcases the importance of their connection to culture.

"Walking on Country provides an education of both traditional, modern and contemporary Aboriginal culture and is a means for understanding and harmony in our region. It highlights the vibrancy of Aboriginal culture in the Shoalhaven," she said.

'Walking on Country' perfectly complemented the 2020's NAIDOC theme, 'Always was and Always will be'.

Community member, Uncle Noel Butler, who features in the film said Aboriginal culture should belong to all Australians.

"By sharing our knowledge of this land, we can continue the longest living culture known to humans. We need to have a different value of the land and we can do it together; we can do it side by side," he said.

The short film is showcased in the Shoalhaven Visitor Centre and council foyers as well as being featured on council's corporate and tourism social media and websites.

The winners of the 27th awarding of the National Trust Heritage Awards which highlight projects, initiatives and individuals that demonstrate excellence in the conservation, protection, and interpretation of Aboriginal, built, natural and cultural heritage, will be announced on May 13.