SYDNEY, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- The site of the final resting place of Woollarawarre Bennelong, Australia's first Indigenous ambassador, has been purchased by the New South Wales (NSW) State government and will be turned into a memorial.
Bennelong played an important role as intermediary between Australia's Indigenous population and the settlers of the First Fleet, even travelling to England along with his nephew to advance relations.
However, following his death in 1813, the location of Bennelong's grave became lost until in 2011 it was identified as being in the front garden of a house in Sydney's north-western suburbs.
NSW Housing Minister Anthony Roberts revealed on Sunday that the state government had purchased the property for around 2.2 million U.S. dollars.
Roberts described Bennelong as "arguably one of our greatest leaders and early ambassadors," saying "it is critical that his site be preserved."
The location was uncovered by environmental scientist Peter Mitchell who undertook an investigation involving comparing historical records to existing landmarks.
Mitchell revealed that Bennelong was buried in what at the time was an orchard belonging to his friend and renowned beer brewer James Squire.
Des Madden from the Bennelong Putney Project Committee said that now the decision lies with Aboriginal community members as to exactly what to do as commemoration.
"It's definitely something that's going to be culturally appropriate," Madden said.
"It's going to be a place where everyone can celebrate the life of Bennelong and also learn more about the story."
