Merle Carter, a respected Elder of the Kimberley region, has completed her service on the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Committee (ACHC).
Ms Carter began her journey with the Aboriginal Cultural Material Committee (ACMC) in 2016, attending her first meeting on 11 May of that year. She remained on the ACMC until 2023, when it was replaced by the ACHC.
During her term, her deep connection to the land and extensive knowledge of Aboriginal heritage played a crucial role on the committees in navigating and advising the State Government, helping to strengthen the protection of Aboriginal cultural sites, said Western Australian Aboriginal Affairs Minister, Tony Buti.
“Merle Carter’s contribution to the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage has been invaluable and her deep cultural knowledge has been valued greatly,” said Dr Buti.
“I wish Merle all the best in her future endeavours as she moves into the next chapter of her life.
“The work of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Committee is essential in preserving Aboriginal heritage, and Merle’s guidance has left a lasting legacy.”
Beyond her roles on the ACMC and the ACHC, Ms Carter has been involved in various areas of Aboriginal advocacy, demonstrating her commitment to the Aboriginal community.
With her term now concluded, she said she looks forward to spending more time with her family and conducting cultural tours of Kununurra and its surrounds, sharing her cultural knowledge with others.
