Aboriginal Heritage
The Dreamtime rainbow serpent, better known as the Wagyl, has strong associations with the entire Swan Valley. Local Nyoongar people believe the Swan Valley was carved by the tail of this creature. Known archaeological sites contain physical evidence of past activities such as tools, utensils and weapon-making artefacts, food gathering and preparing utensils, art sites, stone arrangements, rock shelters, burial places and marked trees.
Approval for the Reid Highway extension has been obtained under Section 18 of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972, following consultation with local Aboriginal people. Measures will be put in place during ground-disturbing works to ensure minimal impacts on known Aboriginal sites. Aboriginal heritage specialists are working closely with the Reid Highway project team to help identify and manage any artefacts that may be discovered.