Our Smoky Cape Aboriginal signage brings to life the oral histories of the Dunghutti people. Beautiful artwork was provided by local Dunghutti elder, Eddie Moran, that provided inspiration for these designs. Language was provided by Esther Quinlan, Gadan Grahame Quinlan, Caroline Bradshaw and the Ngabu Bingay Language Group.
- Client: NSW NPWS, Arakoon & Hat Head
- Date: 2014
- Specs: 4 signs 1000mm wide x 600mm high
- Service: To bring the oral histories of the Dunghutti people to life through Aboriginal interpretive signage that is unique but in keeping with the existing heritage signage at Trial Bay Gaol.
The entire Smoky Cape Range is of profound spiritual significance to the local Aboriginal community. Prior to establishment of the park, numerous carved trees were removed from sites adjacent to the lighthouse complex and transported to the Australian Museum. Smoky Cape marks the place of the last, historically recorded, large ceremony on the coast. Other sites include middens and ceremonial sites.
Smoky Cape connects us with the past as the traditional country of the Dunghutti Aboriginal people. Mentioned in the log of Captain James Cook during his historic voyage of 1770, Smoky Cape is also a site of World War II heritage installations. Smoky Cape Range is about 370km north-northeast of Sydney and located within the Hat Head National Park. Historic Trial Bay Gaol is also part of the range with the nearest town being South West Rocks.
