The Finocchiaro CLP Government has declared part of the former St Mary’s Hostel site in Alice Springs as a Heritage Place under the Heritage Act 2011.
Key cultural and historical assets at the site are now permanently protected, including the St Mary’s Chapel and its mural.
This decision follows extensive consultation with St Mary’s Stolen Generations Committee, local historians and assessment by the NT Heritage Council.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government has formally recognised and protected one of the Territory’s most significant historical sites, following the declaration of more than 2.5 hectares of the former St Mary’s Hostel site in Alice Springs as a Heritage Place.
Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment Joshua Burgoyne said the declaration would ensure the site’s cultural heritage would be preserved for generations to come as the Government continues to deliver on its year of growth, certainty and security.
The announcement was marked on-site today, with the Minister joining members of the St Mary’s Stolen Generations and Traditional Owners to acknowledge the significance of the occasion.
“We recognise the significance of the former St Mary’s Hostel site for those who lived there and everyone who is connected to it,” Minister Burgoyne said.
“It holds deep importance and meaning to the St Mary’s Stolen Generations Committee, Arrernte people, and broader community as a place of memories, childhood, and shared experiences.”
Protected assets include the chapel and its mural, Yellow Children’s Cottage, fireplace and chimney from the foundational mission building, Tree of Knowledge (also known as the ‘Mother Tree’), and associated cultural landscapes and heritage values.
The broader site remains part of the CLP Government’s social housing initiative to address much-needed housing in Alice Springs, supported by a $12 million investment from the CLP and $14 million from the Australian Government for enabling infrastructure works.
“We are demonstrating that we can protect our heritage while delivering outcomes that support Territorians,” Minister Burgoyne said.
St Mary’s Stolen Generation Committee Chairperson Anne Ronberg said: “The St Mary’s Stolen Generation Committee are overjoyed with the news of the permanent heritage listing that has recently been announced.
“We give thanks and acknowledgement to the community for their support.”
