Forests NSW is returned the 'Black Fellows Hand Trail' in Newnes State Forest north of Lithgow to its traditional name of 'Maiyingu Marragu Trail' through the erection of a new sign on Monday 12 December.

Forests NSW acting Stewardship forester, Jack Cotterill, said the installation of the new sign, which means 'peoples with hands' was the result of a partnership between the traditional owners of the area, the Mingaan people (part of the Wiradjuri Nation) and Forests NSW.

The Maiyingu Marragu Trail runs off the well known Glow Worm Tunnel Road, which follows the route of the historic Wolgan Valley Railway to the Glow Worm Tunnel.

Mr Cotterill said during the past two years, Forests NSW has been meeting with the Mingaan people as part of a consultative process to protect the natural and cultural heritage of Newnes State Forest. 

“We are very happy to be working with the traditional owners to better understand the significance of the area, which holds special meaning to Wiradjuri people because of their continuing cultural connection to the site,” he said.

Maiyingu Marragu is an Aboriginal place, which was declared at a special ceremony on site in 2008. The values of the Aboriginal place include an art site, a teaching site, and an occupational site including a men's and women's area. 

The sacred complex also includes culturally significant art stencils, which are a physical and spiritual link to ancestors. 

A representative of the Mingaan people, Sharon Riley, has been liaising with Forests NSW in relation to the installation of the signs. 

Mr Cotterill said Forests NSW had made a promise to recognise the importance of the area and has demonstrated its support for the traditional owners of the area by honoring that promise.

“The new sign acknowledges the significance of the area, which is highly valued by the Mingaan people as well as the wider community,” he said.

The installation of the sign will be marked by a short ceremony at 10 am.

Media contact: Sarah Chester (02) 6036 2110 or 0417 207 669