Alice Williams is the (Former) Secretary, Brungle/Tumut Local Aboriginal Land Council.

A small piece of paradise is what most visitors to Elm Grove feel when they encounter the area for the first time. Our people occupied this little bit of paradise for many thousands of years.

 It was and still is a special place for Aboriginal women and children. Where they connected spiritually with Mother Earth. Where they learnt to appreciate all aspects of their culture and appreciate the beauty and spirituality of the land.

 Elm Grove is very sacred ground for the Wolgalu and is used often by the Aboriginal community to teach the young people respect for culture, the land and the interaction between the environment and people.

Once you encounter the spirituality of the area you often find yourself drawn back again and again. The spirit of the land has a powerful presence and offers the opportunity for deep reflection of one’s life path, a greater affinity within ourselves, and with Mother Earth.

Alice’s words written many years ago still hold the potent essence and importance of protecting and honouring the history of Elm Grove Sanctuary. Care for the deep spirituality of sacred places by hearts and minds that are open are indicators of our true humanity and connection to the wonders of the natural world of which we are an intricate part.