In October 2017, along the banks of Nyambaga Bindarray (Nambucca River), a young Aboriginal man’s remains were unceremoniously excavated during a house relocation. Forensic analysis determined that the young man would have been around 14-16 years old when he was buried here around 700 years ago.

Working closely with the Gumbaynggirr Men’s Elders group, FD+A developed plans for a garden surrounding a memorial stone to the young Aboriginal man, and design and content for two interpretive signs. The interpretation describes the deep Gumbaynggirr connections to this special place, which is close to the bend in the river which gives Nambucca (Ngambaa Baga Baga – crooked knee) its name.

The vivid artwork featured on these signs was created by Gumbaynggirr artist Denise Buchanan.