Joint Statement: Traditional ceremony marks reinternment of Aboriginal ancestorial remains on Wadjemup / Rottnest Island

Aboriginal ancestorial remains discovered on Wadjemup / Rottnest Island during recent works have been returned to their resting place.

A traditional ceremony was held this morning to mark the reinterment of the remains, known culturally as Baalang, which were discovered on Wednesday 8 April, during works to expand the main bus stop.

Works at the site ceased immediately and appropriate authorities were notified.

Since the discovery, Rottnest Island Authority (RIA) and Whadjuk Aboriginal Corporation (WAC) have worked together to ensure cultural protocols are followed, and respectful decisions are made regarding the protection and ongoing management of the Baalang site.

This has included meetings with senior Whadjuk Elders and respected Aboriginal representatives to seek advice on the cultural process moving forward.

Guided by this group, WAC and RIA undertook a Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey of the works site which identified a further 12 potential burial-like anomalies at the location.

Additional archaeological investigations will take place at the site next week to confirm if the anomalies are burial sites. Whadjuk Noongar monitors and Elders will continue to oversee the site.

WAC and RIA will share the findings of those investigations with the senior Whadjuk Elders and respected Aboriginal representatives and determine next steps.

RIA and WAC recognise the profound cultural and spiritual significance of Wadjemup to Whadjuk Noongar people and the broader Aboriginal community. We acknowledge and express our deep regret for the significant distress this incident and subsequent investigations has caused Aboriginal people.

WAC encourages Aboriginal community members to reach out to their office or their local Aboriginal Corporation for support and information.