Wiradjuri Wellington Aboriginal Town Common

The Wiradjuri Wellington Aboriginal Town Common Aboriginal Corporation engaged TRC Tourism to develop a forward-thinking business case centred on eco-tourism and education, to celebrate the rich cultural and natural assets of the Town Common. TRC’s expertise in sustainable tourism and deep understanding of cultural heritage allowed the project to focus on creating a unique visitor experience that celebrates Wiradjuri culture while promoting environmental stewardship. Through a combination of market analysis and developing the client’s ideas, TRC identified sustainable tourism opportunities that provide a clear pathway for future eco-tourism development, underpinned by TRC’s knowledge of how to balance tourism growth with cultural preservation.

A key challenge was ensuring that economic development aligned with the community’s cultural values and the environmental constraints of the site. TRC took a holistic and consultative approach, working with local architects and landscape architects to create culturally appropriate and sustainable concepts. The firm’s methodology incorporated rigorous environmental assessments, including flood and bushfire risk analysis, while consulting directly with the Wiradjuri community to ensure their cultural values were reflected in the design principles. TRC’s integration of ecological studies, commercial viability, and community consultation set the foundation for a long-term vision that prioritises cultural authenticity alongside sustainable economic growth.

The project delivered several key outcomes, including a detailed visitor market assessment, a high-level master plan with design principles, and cost estimates. TRC’s analysis provided a ranked list of initiatives, prioritising projects that balance cultural, environmental, and economic considerations. Additionally, a governance model and a community participation plan were developed to ensure long-term local engagement and ownership.

Key recommendations included the implementation of a staged approach to developing the Town Common, focused on creating eco-tourism opportunities that highlight Wiradjuri culture and natural assets. Recommendations also called for the establishment of sustainable governance models to manage future development and protect the area’s environmental integrity.