A dark cloud hangs over the future of the Telstra Tower in Canberra, as Ngunnawal elders fight to reclaim their vision for the site.
The tower, once a beloved landmark, has been closed since 2020, leaving a gaping hole in the city's cultural landscape. But amidst plans to reopen it, a controversial shift in direction has sparked concern among the Ngunnawal community.
A Vision for Cultural Celebration
In 2022, Telstra embarked on a journey with Ngunnawal leaders, Uncle Richie Allan and Aunty Violet Sheridan, to transform the tower into a vibrant cultural hub. The initial plan, a true collaboration, envisioned a 'Ngunnawal cultural tourism venue' that would celebrate the rich history and connection to the land of the First Peoples of Canberra.
The proposal included digitally enhanced viewing platforms, culturally inspired dining, and educational programs, all designed to immerse visitors in Ngunnawal culture. It was a vision that captured the hearts of many, including ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr, who threw his support behind the project.
A Shift in Direction
Fast forward to 2025, and the narrative has taken an unexpected turn. While the ACT Government and Telstra have announced plans to reopen the tower, the focus seems to have shifted away from the Ngunnawal-led vision. Instead, talk of 'adventure experiences' - elevated walks, base jumping, and zip lines - has dominated the conversation.
And this is the part most people miss: the Ngunnawal components, the heart and soul of the original plan, appear to have been pushed aside.
A Call for Accountability
Independent MLA Thomas Emerson and ACT Senator David Pocock have raised concerns, demanding that Telstra and the ACT Government honor their commitments to the Ngunnawal community. They argue that the extensive work and investment put into the Ngunnawal-led vision should not be discarded.
"It's incredibly disappointing that Telstra and the ACT Government are backing away from their earlier promises," Mr. Emerson stated. "Turfing all that work would be a disservice to the Traditional Owners who've dedicated their time and energy to this process."
A Fight for Cultural Preservation
Uncle Richie and Auntie Sheridan, determined to see their vision come to life, have met with the ACT Government to voice their concerns. They remind Telstra of their promise to make the tower a Ngunnawal cultural center first and foremost.
"We put it straight to them: you promised," Uncle Richie said. "Telstra's integrity is on the line here, and we expect them to stand by their word."
A Complex Web of Responsibility
The ACT Government, while acknowledging its role in the process, points to Telstra as the ultimate decision-maker. It states that while Telstra has consulted with Traditional Custodians, the final outcome remains Telstra's responsibility as the facility owner.
Telstra, for its part, recognizes the cultural significance of the site and emphasizes its commitment to including the Ngunnawal Traditional Custodians in the planning process. However, it defers to the ACT Government's engagement plan, led by its specialist advisors.
A Controversial Interpretation
So, who's really in control here? Is the ACT Government passing the buck to Telstra, or is Telstra simply exercising its rights as the facility owner? And what does this mean for the Ngunnawal community's vision?
As construction is set to begin in 2027, the future of the Telstra Tower hangs in the balance. Will it become a world-class tourist attraction, or will it truly honor the cultural heritage it was meant to celebrate?
What are your thoughts on this complex issue? Should the Ngunnawal community's vision take precedence, or is it reasonable for Telstra to explore other options? We'd love to hear your opinions in the comments below!
