The Corporation this month received a $75,000 NSW Heritage Grant to continue its work on the Munnagi Yerribi Interpretive Walking Track, which winds along adjacent to the Yass River.

I had the privilege of going out to Flat Rock crossing to speak to Mr Bell about his work. We walked along the unfinished track from its start point at the crossing and worked our way around towards the dam.

Mr Bell’s love for the area is obvious. 

“I put the Corporation together so we could do work on the river,” he explained.

"We needed a corporation so we could get some money through the Murrumbidgee CMA (Catchment Management Authority), which we did. 

"I think we received well over a hundred thousand dollars to do all this work, and now we've received this grant as an Aboriginal Heritage Project, which makes things that much easier.

"We thought we'd only be able to afford a gravel path but now we'll be able to provide a smooth walkway so that people in wheelchairs and things like that will be able to enjoy it too."

Mr Bell's aim is to give the river back to the younger generations. Clearing the shrubbery and weeds and making the track both a scenic walk and access point to the water's edge is the next task.

"This is where I caught my first fish,” he points. 

“It has so much sentimental value and I want to share that with future generations." 

The project has been a success so far. The Corporation has received CMA and NSW funding and support from council. In turn it’s provided employment opportunities.

"Yeah I look back at that with a lot of pride,” he continued.

“It's not just about me but all the young fellas who worked here with me; we worked together on this you know?

"I put them on wages better than the dole, a lot better and they were happy with it.

"They were good willing workers, and they're still looking for work you see. Unfortunately I don't have any, when we do this it's not a job that I'll be able to offer employment."

Nevertheless it’s a great initiative and according to council spokeswoman Kathy Campbell, it won't be long before Mr Bell realises his dream.

"It's his project and it's great for him. We plan on having it completed in two to three months," she said.

"We’ve been working closely with Eric and have been to the track to look at where the school children will be able to get involved in the revegetation process and where we'll position benches.

"It's already all marked out, we are just now waiting to organise contractors."

The Burunya Aboriginal Corporation is looking for support. Get in touch if you would like to lend a hand. Phone 6226 3799 or 0428 885 826.