The Mallee region has an ancient history, dating back more than 40,000 years.
The traditional custodians of Mallee country are the Latji Latji, Paakantji (Barkindji), Ngiyampaa, Mutthi Mutthi, Wemba Wemba, Tati Tati and Barapa Barapa.
The local region of northern Victoria and southern New South Wales is recognised internationally for the number and significance of human fossils and artifacts located on our lands, which are considered to be among Australia's richest and most important cultural heritage areas.
The understanding of Australia's Indigenous history was revolutionised by the discovery in the 1960s of ancient human remains at Lake Mungo, in the Willandra Lakes World Heritage Area of Southern New South Wales.
Koori history in northern Victoria and southern New South Wales is particularly significant because the river resources and local quarries allowed relative permanency among the local groups. The area's original residents developed specialised tools and traditions and customs specific to the area.
MDAS is proud of our cultural heritage, and is committed to breaking down barriers and building understanding of local heritage and traditions.