13/12/00
A purpose-designed building for keeping skeletal remains of Aboriginal people was officially commissioned by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Dr Kim Hames today at Karrakatta Cemetery.
Dr Hames said the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Keeping Place would principally be used to house remains which could not be buried because their source was unknown.
“The Keeping Place will also be used for remains waiting to be taken back to their tribal lands for re-burial,” he said.
“The Aboriginal community has wished for a facility such as this for some time, where the remains of their people can be held with dignity and respect.
“It has been four years in the planning and is a combined initiative by the Aboriginal Affairs Department and the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board.
“There was also widespread consultation with Aboriginal elders.”
Dr Hames said that the Keeping Place would be able to hold up to 250 skeletal remains, including those currently stored at the WA Museum.
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