31 January 2024
Grafton’s former gaol is set to be given a new future following a landmark agreement between the NSW Government and the Grafton Ngerrie Local Aboriginal Land Council (GNLALC).
Following approval by Clarence Valley Council to subdivide the property, the old market garden and industrial buildings of the former Grafton Correctional Centre will be handed over to GNLALC to achieve positive outcomes for the Aboriginal community.
The subdivision of the former gaol, which operated between 1890 and 2020, will enable Property and Development NSW to put part of the remaining site to the open market, which will allow the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage buildings to support local economic growth.
The gaol was added to the state’s Heritage Register in 1999, and was closed in 2020 following the opening of the newly-built Clarence Correctional Centre in Lavadia.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
“I am delighted that we have reached this important moment with the Grafton Ngerrie Local Aboriginal Land Council, who will be wonderful custodians of this significant site in Grafton.
“This is a great example of how our Government is repurposing old and unused government buildings that both protects important heritage while they continue to serve local and regional communities.”
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty David Harris said:
“I am excited about this partnership and the benefits it will bring to people and communities in the Northern Rivers region.”
“The local Aboriginal community have a deep connection to Gumbaynngirr Country and this site in Grafton. The agreement will empower the GNLALC community as the ongoing custodians of this land while advancing cultural, economic and employment opportunities.
“This is a great demonstration of government working together with Aboriginal communities.”
Grafton Ngerrie Local Aboriginal Land Council Chairperson Roslyn Kennedy said:
“It is fantastic to have reached this important outcome. This site will be used to serve the wider community and provide much-needed job and training opportunities for local Aboriginal people and the broader Clarence Valley community.”