Newly appointed Circular Head Aboriginal Corporation (CHAC) chairman Sam Cleland has outlined a vision for the body’s future. Mr Cleland was appointed as CHAC chairman in late 2018, succeeding Peter Benson. A Smithton resident and Bureau of Meteorology scientist, Mr Cleland said it was the corporation’s intent to ensure future generations of Tasmanians who identify as aboriginal have access to their culture. “One of the aspects of the indigenous population in the North-West is a loss of knowledge and culture and language,” Mr Cleland said. “The loss of knowledge is very pronounced here… more emphasised than in other parts of Australia.” He said that CHAC’s focus on cultural research and work to help indigenous Tasmanians regain the language of their ancestors drew him to the role. “The effort that goes on into research to help regain of language and culture takes a lot of dedication,” he said. “That’s being aided by the Trawmanna project, which includes a parcel of land near Smithton that can be used as a focus for cultural development.” The Indigenous Land Corporation granted the property to CHAC in 2012 and provided funding for management and development. Trawmanna is the focal point for Circular Head Aboriginal Corporation’s health, social and community services.
