National Indigenous Education Conference: Organisers of the fourth National Indigenous Education Conference held in Newcastle from 27 to 29 November 2006 are looking for expressions of interest from potential delegates. The conference is an opportunity to take part in a gathering of Indigenous educators and leaders and hear what is happening in Aboriginal education across the nation. For more information and to express an interest visit http://www.pco.com.au/niec/.

Indigenous Curatorial Internship recipient: The Art Gallery of Western Australia is calling Indigenous artist Chad Creighton one of its “greatest acquisitions”, after he became the recipient of the gallery’s Indigenous Curatorial Internship. The internship is aimed at expanding the number of number of Indigenous staff in the arts and culture industry in Australia. The three-year internship combines practical gallery training with postgraduate study. After completing the internship, the intern is qualified for employment in major galleries and museums across Australia. Chad, who is Nyullnyull and Bardi, was born in Broome and spent most of his childhood in the surrounding communities. While at school Chad won first prize in the Angelico Art Exhibition and in 2000 and had two works selected for the Year 12 Perspectives Exhibition. Chad said the internship offered him the chance to develop valuable skills for a future career in the arts industry. For more information on Chad and the internship call Erin Bartucciotto on 9492 6692 or 0400 389 217 or email erin.bartucciotto@artgallery.wa.gov.au.

Skeletal remains found in Leederville: The department has advised developers at a construction site in Leederville to stop work after skeletal remains were uncovered during excavation on Monday, 24 April. Workers at the Carr Street development called police to attend when the remains were found. The State Forensic Pathologist removed the remains and will confirm their origin. DIA acting Director General Amanda Cattermole said it was only through forensic examination that police were able to confirm the age and ancestry of the remains, particularly when the area had not been previously registered as a burial ground. The department recognises the importance of connection to country for Aboriginal people and will work with the Indigenous community in Perth on an appropriate course of action should the remains be confirmed as Aboriginal.

Caring for Country campaign: This month Indigenous Affairs Minister Sheila McHale launched the department’s Caring for Country campaign, which offers travellers tips on how to enjoy visiting Indigenous heritage sites, while protecting them from damage. The campaign’s two infomercials are available to view on the DIA website www.dia.wa.gov.au, as are the Ten Top Tips for Travellers. For more information on the campaign call Lindsay McPhee on 9235 8051.