UPDATE: The new Hungry Point Cliff Top Walkway officially opened today, honoring the generations of Aboriginal people who once thrived in this area. During the opening ceremony, attendees heard from Bruce Howell, a respected Aboriginal knowledge holder, who emphasized the rich cultural heritage of the land overlooking the stunning waters of Port Hacking.
Howell delivered a heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country, stating, “The evidence of the local Aboriginal people, whose home extended across this peninsula, this bay, these waterways, and shorelines… is all around us.” He pointed out that the shells scattered throughout Hungry Point reflect the daily lives of Aboriginal communities and the meals they shared.
During the ceremony, Howell recalled the encounter between two Aboriginal men and explorers George Bass and Mathew Flinders, which occurred less than 150 metres from the new walkway nearly 230 years ago. “Those two men represented their people honourably,” Howell noted, recognizing their enduring legacy as traditional custodians of this land.
In a pivotal moment for local history, the walkway may be named after Frank Cridland, an advocate for preserving Aboriginal culture in the area. Cridland highlighted the significance of shell middens in his 1924 publication, “The Story of Port Hacking Cronulla and Sutherland,” emphasizing the extensive Aboriginal occupation of the region.
The Geographical Names Board is currently seeking community feedback on the proposed name, Frank Cridland Walkway. Residents can submit their thoughts until January 9. The Board stated that they are gauging community sentiment and are not seeking alternative names at this time.
“This walkway realizes a vision that Frank Cridland had for a public path around the Cronulla peninsula,” the Board explained. “The current Esplanade walkway partially achieved his vision.”
Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to engage with this initiative, with further details available on the Geographical Names Board’s website. Written submissions can also be mailed to: The Secretary, Geographical Names Board, 346 Panorama Ave, Bathurst, NSW 2795.
The opening of the Hungry Point Cliff Top Walkway marks a significant step in recognizing and celebrating the rich heritage of the Aboriginal people, inviting the community to connect deeply with the history of this beloved area.
As the public begins to explore this new pathway, the legacy of those who came before is brought to life, reminding everyone of the vital connection between land and culture.
