The Lihir Cultural Heritage Plan

The Lihir Cultural Heritage Plan

Defining the Lihir Cultural Heritage Program

Lihir Cultural Heritage Committee

June 2009

A irir wana mamalien a anio Lihir A plan for social stability and harmony on Lihir

This plan was drafted by members of the Lihir Cultural Heritage Committee during the Stepping Stones for Heritage workshop held in Lihir from 8 – 17 March 2009:

Peter Toelinkanut

Luke Kabariu

Patrick Turuan

Joane Saet

Herman Saet

Walter Balbal

Francis Arom

Leonard Pamas

Lawrence Klamga

Rosemary Tohielats

Francis Sumar

Martin Bangel

Peter Arau

Philip Pasap

Alfons Ama The plan is the result of this work and subsequent discussions held by the Lihir Cultural Heritage Committee. The Committee was assisted by a facilitation and support team consisting of: Dr Nick Bainton – University of Queensland Nicholas Hall – Stepwise Heritage and Tourism Pty. Ltd. Dr Chris Ballard – Australian National University Dr Kirsty Gillespie – Australian National University

Decisions about the future use and distribution of this plan remains with the Lihir Cultural Heritage Committee.

The Lihir Cultural Heritage Plan © 2009 Lihir Cultural Heritage Committee Front Cover Image: The Ailaya as it appeared before the mine. The Committee collectively decided to use the Ailaya as the logo for the Lihir Cultural Heritage Committee and for the front cover of this Plan. A meeting was held between the Committee and Tinetalgo clan leaders, represented by Herman Saet, on 6

th May 2009 to gain

approval for the use of the image of the Ailaya. Approval was unanimously granted. It was decided at this meeting that Ailaya will be spelt with a „y‟ to signal a matanlaklak (the gateway to a men‟s house): “the Ailaya is the gateway for all Lihirians” (Peter Toelinkanut).

Contents page

Background to this plan .............................................................................................. 1

The Lihir Island Group ................................................................................................ 2

The process use to develop this plan ......................................................................... 3

1. Vision for the future ............................................................................................... 7

2. Who is involved ..................................................................................................... 8

3. What we know ..................................................................................................... 11

4. What is important ................................................................................................. 21

5. What the issues are ............................................................................................. 26

6. Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats ........................................... 29

7. Our ideas ............................................................................................................. 31

8. Our objectives...................................................................................................... 33

9. Action plans ......................................................................................................... 34

10. Making it happen ............................................................................................... 45

Glossary ................................................................................................................... 49

1

Background to this plan

The idea for a Cultural Heritage Management Plan for Lihir has two origins. The interest among Lihirians in maintaining strong and vital kastom practices, and attention to cultural heritage management issues arising from social impact assessments for the gold mine that is located on Aniolam, the largest island in the Lihir island group.

In 1995 a „Special Mining Lease‟ was granted for the construction of the open cut mine on Aniolam, which led to the first gold pour in May 1997. Initial social impact assessments associated with the mine identified the important role of kastom in the social and cosmological identity of Lihirians. From the initial stages of the mining project there was a strong realisation among the Lihirian community and outside observers, that mining will produce unprecedented cultural transformation. Initial social impact assessments also highlighted the need for sustained anthropological work to document these changes. In response to these issues, a Cultural Information Office was established within Lihir Gold Limited in 1998.

A range of activities documenting and supporting kastom practice were undertaken in the 1990s and early 2000s however, no systematic approach to the management of Lihirian cultural heritage was developed.

In 2007 and 2008 renewed attention was placed on the broader context of cultural heritage management, particularly though cooperative work between Lihir Gold Limited (LGL) and Dr Nick Bainton from the Centre for Social Responsibility in Mining (CSRM), Sustainable Minerals Institute, at The University of Queensland.

In mid 2007 the Social Impact Assessment for the planned Million Ounce Plant Upgrade provided the first real opportunity to assess the history and success of cultural heritage management in Lihir. Recommendations by Dr Chris Ballard of the Australian National University outlined the need for the development of a cultural heritage management plan that would address LGL corporate commitments and the growing concerns among the Lihirian population over rapid cultural change.

In September and October 2008 initial steps were taken to form a Lihir Cultural Heritage Committee to be responsible for the development of a cultural heritage management plan. In December 2008 the first meeting of the interim Lihir Cultural Heritage Committee was held. There was unanimous agreement at this meeting to move ahead with the development of a cultural heritage management plan through a major workshop to be held in early 2009. LGL agreed to fund the workshop to be run in conjunction with the development of the Committee.

It was proposed that the Stepping Stones for Heritage approach would be an effective way to both achieve capacity building outcomes for the Committee at the same time as developing a cultural heritage management plan that would outline an ongoing cultural heritage management program for Lihir. A facilitation and support team for the proposed workshop was appointed consisting of expertise from Stepwise Heritage and Tourism Pty. Ltd., The Australian National University, and CSRM.

The facilitation and support team were responsible for working in cooperation with the Lihir Cultural Heritage Committee to produce the Lihir Cultural Heritage Plan. This process commenced with the Lihir Cultural Heritage Workshop held from 8 – 17 March 2009, that led directly to the development of this Plan.

2

The Lihir Island Group

3

The process used to prepare this plan

The Lihir Cultural Heritage Workshop utilised the Stepping Stones for Heritage participatory planning process that has been developed in Australia for cultural heritage planning over the last decade.

The Stepping Stones for Heritage guide people through key steps for heritage conservation and management. The process is based on internationally recognised heritage conservation processes, and can be used for all forms of heritage whether natural or cultural, tangible or intangible. The steps concentrate on practical means to protect what is important to pass on to future generations.

The workshop facilitation and support team translated the Stepping Stones for Heritage steps into Tok Pisin and various versions of the process were produced for use in the workshop, including large laminated versions of the process, an A4 handout and large coloured footprints that were used on a groundsheet during workshop meetings. During the workshop, the plan was progressively developed by recording workshop discussions of each step in a large paper book.

Workshop sessions were held in Londolovit and Palie on Aniolam, and on the islands of Mahur, Masahet and Malie over the course of the eight day workshop. Over 1000 Lihirians, including children, participated in, or observed sessions held during the workshop. These sessions were aimed at both informing the wider Lihirian community of the cultural heritage planning process as well as gathering specific information to help develop the content of the Plan.

4

rot bilong lukautim kalsa the road for looking after culture

stepping stones for heritage

1. 2. Who is involved The people involved in the cultural heritage program

2.

1. Vision for the future What we want to achieve into the future

3.

3. What we know What information is available about cultural heritage

4.

4. What is important What is most important about our cultural heritage

5. What the issues are The major issues affecting the management of our cultural heritage 5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

6. Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats The strategic picture for the future management of our cultural heritage

7. What the ideas are The major components and ideas for managing our cultural heritage in the future

8. What the objectives are The achievable goals for management of cultural heritage

9. Action plans The actions, responsibilities and resources required for our cultural heritage management program

10. Making it happen How the plan is going to be used, monitored and reviewed

5

Participants at a workshop session on Mahur

Participants at a workshop session at Palie

6

Participants at a workshop session on Masahet

Participants at a workshop session on Malie

7

Our cultural heritage must be here, now and in the future. We must strengthen and ensure the future of our cultural heritage. Our cultural heritage stands on top of the men’s house, the clan, our custom law and language. The origin and the base for all Lihirian culture is the Ailaya. We are born, we live and we die within the story of the Ailaya. We live in a time of accelerating change. For social stability and harmony we need strong culture and strong leadership. For our future, development and custom will go together. Our children will be educated and healthy and also rooted in custom. The future of Lihir rests in their hands.

Four different aspects of the cultural heritage of Lihir underpin all the considerations in this plan and what we see for the future.

They are:

the men‟s house system;

the clan system;

custom law; and

our language.

The men‟s house is like our parliament. It is the base for Lihir custom. We want the strengths of the men‟s house system to be carried from the past into the future.

The clan system is our connection to land, and the spirits. It is the base for our identity, and determines connection to the men‟s house.

Through the men‟s house young people will receive education in custom. Custom law must continue, and be strong.

Everyone should know the Lihirian language well.

Leadership is fundamental to the maintenance and growth of each aspect of our cultural heritage. Strong culture requires strong leadership.

Together we have written a statement that reflects our vision for the future:

1. Vision for the future

Sets out clearly what we want to achieve 1.

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It is important to make sure the right people are involved in developing and implementing the cultural heritage plan. In this section we consider different groups that are important to this process:

the role of the Lihir Cultural Heritage Committee;

the role of the clan system; and

other people who are already involved, could be involved or may need to be involved in the future.


The Committee has been formed to hold firmly, revive, and strengthen Lihirian custom and culture and establish a plan to achieve this. The Committee was designed to include broad representation of Lihirians by appointment of individuals with a particular interest in cultural heritage issues. Included in the Committee are representatives from church, women, youth, mining lease landholders (LMALA), Lihir Gold Limited (LGL), Nimamar Rural Local Level Government (NRLLG), and the Lihir Sustainable Development Planning and Monitoring Committee (LSDP).

An interim Committee was in place during the 2009 Cultural Heritage Workshop. It immediately tasked itself to establish a permanent committee and consider formal association with office holders. The Lihir Cultural Heritage Committee is now responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of this plan and in general advising on cultural heritage issues on Lihir.

The clan system

The clan system is a traditional means for defining the identity and associations of all Lihirians. The clan system stems from the Ailaya. It consists of two moieties, or „halves‟: Tumbawinlam and Tumbawinmalkok. Within each „half‟ there are a number of major clans, each of which includes a number of clan sub groups.

2. Who is involved

The people involved in the cultural heritage program

2.

Moiety Moiety Clans Clans Sub clans

Sub clans

Ailaya

9

The clan system is an essential part of the cultural heritage management plan. The clan structure and clan leaders will need to be engaged in the programs and activities that arise out of this plan. They will need to be responsible for getting people involved and working out local solutions. Each clan will undertake activities in their own way and different clans will take leadership in different areas.

Other people that are involved or interested in Lihir Cultural Heritage and may be utilised in the future to support aspects of this plan

Lihir local organisations

Who Their role or interest

Petztorme Represents Lihirian women

Tutorme Represents Lihirian women

Catholic Church (and MSC archive) Principal Church within Lihir

United Church Main Protestant Church within Lihir

Other denominations (Pentecostal) Minority Church within Lihir

Youth Reps (one for each ward) Represent Lihirian youth

Lihir Mining Area Landowners Association (LMALA)

Represent the wider Lihirian community through the six major clans and landowners within the Mining Lease zone

Nimamar Rural Local Level Government (NRLLG)

The Lihir local level government which represents all Lihirians

Lihirian Sustainable Development Plan (LSDP)

The guiding plan for achieving sustainable development through the Integrated Benefits Package

Lihir Gold Limited (LGL) The gold mining company operating the mine on Aniolam

Other PNG organisations


NIPG (Tourism and Culture) Development and promotion of New Ireland Cultural Tourism

National Cultural Commission (NCC) Promote and support cultural heritage management activities throughout PNG

National Museum of PNG Holds artefacts collected from Lihir in their collection

Institute of PNG Studies (IPNGS) Promotes and supports audio-visual and documentation projects on PNG culture

National Research Institute of Papua New Guinea (NRI)

Research activities on PNG socio-cultural change

Radio New Ireland Promotes and supports audio recording projects in New Ireland; holds early music recordings from Lihir

New Ireland Provincial Government Promotion of sustainable development in Lihir

National Government of PNG Promotion of sustainable development in Lihir

Research institutions


University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) Provides education and research into PNG culture

Pacific Adventist University (PAU) Provides education and research into PNG culture

Divine Word University (DWU) Provides education and research into PNG culture

CSRM/The University of Queensland (UQ) Collaborative agreement between CSRM and LGL

Australian National University (ANU) Strong Pacific research focus

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Museums and archives outside PNG


Ethnologisches Museum, Berlin, Germany Hold artefacts collected from Lihir

Museum für Völkerkunde, Dresden, Germany Hold artefacts collected from Lihir

Museum für Völkerkunde, Hamburg, Germany Hold artefacts collected from Lihir

Linden Museum, Stuttgart, Germany Hold artefacts collected from Lihir

Koninklijk Institut voor Tropen, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Hold artefacts collected from Lihir

Musée du Quai Branly, Paris, France Hold artefacts collected from Lihir

Museum der Kulturen, Basel, Switzerland Hold artefacts collected from Lihir

Musée Barbier-Mueller, Geneva, Switzerland Hold artefacts collected from Lihir

Field Museum, Chicago, USA Hold artefacts collected from Lihir

University of Pennsylvania Museum, Philadelphia, USA Hold artefacts collected from Lihir

Auckland Institute and Museum, Auckland, New Zealand Hold artefacts collected from Lihir

South Australian Museum, Adelaide, Australia Hold artefacts collected from Lihir

Museum of Victoria, Melbourne, Australia Hold artefacts collected from Lihir

Individuals with an interest in Lihir cultural heritage


Simon Foale (James Cook University ) Previous research and social and environmental impact work in Lihir

Martha Macintyre (University of Melbourne) Previous research and social impact work in Lihir

Susan Hemer (University of Adelaide) Previous research work in Lihir

Parks family (Summer Institute of Linguistics) Bible translation work in Lihir

Michael Gunn (National Gallery of Aust) International expert on New Ireland Art

Nick Bainton (CSRM/UQ) Continuing research work in Lihir/CSRM-LGL partnership

Kirsty Gillespie (ANU) Ethnomusicology work in Lihir

Chris Ballard (ANU) Facilitator of Lihir Cultural Heritage Workshop

Colin Filer (ANU) Previous research and social impact work in Lihir

John Burton (ANU) Previous research and social mapping work in Lihir

Richard Jackson (James Cook University) Previous research and social impact work in Lihir

Emma Kowel (University of Melbourne) Previous research work in Lihir

Sigrid Awart Previous research work in Lihir

Mathew Leavesly (UPNG) Archaeological work in Lihir/NIP

Herman Mandui (National Museum PNG) Archaeological work in Lihir/NIP

Jacob Simet (NCC) Director National Cultural Commission

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It is important in order to manage cultural heritage for the future that we understand the state of knowledge about cultural heritage and where this knowledge resides. Two important aspects have been considered:

1. The knowledge about custom that resides within Lihir and is held by Lihirians

2. The knowledge and resources that reside outside of Lihir

1. Knowledge about custom held within Lihir

Knowledge of the following elements is important: men’s houses, clans, leadership, land and spirits, customary laws, and our language – these elements form our strong culture.

The men‟s house, custom work, land, spirits, marriage, and subsistence work – all have laws. Custom law is upheld by clans and their leaders.

Clan knowledge remains. It is the implementation of it that has changed.

Ailaya is the origin of all the clans in Lihir. Knowledge of the importance of Ailaya to the culture of Lihir still remains, especially among older people.

Leadership is crucial. In the past when custom was one of the main ways for people to demonstrate leadership; leaders would set an example for other people to follow.

The way that we prepare food is also central to our identity and custom. Knowledge about correct food preparation is held by both women and men. Women and men have different

3. What we know

The information available about cultural heritage

1.

2.

3.

12

knowledge about cooking for the men‟s house. To obtain food involves work – men and women work in the gardens. They have this knowledge.

Performance of song and dance is an important way to express our identity.

There has been a loss of knowledge about traditional custom technologies; once the current generation of elders dies much more will be lost and revival and reconstruction of some technologies will be very difficult.

There are aspects of our cultural tradition that help create Lihirian identity. These include:

- tieltiel (facial tattoos);

- tep / ratz (women‟s and men‟s baskets);

- kuel / kual (shell armbands worn by women of high status);

- wi (arm bands made from vine worn by men and women);

- siasie (grass costume worn across the breasts of women);

- kapkap (breast ornament worn by male leaders);

- kuel pas (cranial trepanation);

- mortuary ritual ceremonies (and performances and songs within); and

- distinct traditional technologies such as fish and pig traps;

Knowledge of the tangible and intangible aspects of our cultural heritage will need to be further documented over time as part of the Cultural Heritage Program.

Documentation of our cultural heritage will be undertaken across the spectrum of practices, sites and objects:

Examples of each of these aspects of cultural heritage are included in the following tables:

Cultural heritage

practices

Cultural heritage

objects

Cultural heritage

sites

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Lihir cultural heritage practices

Practice Location(s) Details Work to be done

Feasting All Lihir Lugara/Karat cycle: changes to feasting activities, increased number of feasts, with greater emphasis on competition. Many women have noted the additional pressure of preparing for a greater number of feasting activities.

Self-sustaining. There is a need to explore and document certain feasting and exchange activities that are no longer being practiced.

Lihirian language / tok ples

All Lihir, but contains 7 dialects.

SIL process in place to create alphabet [see report in Lihir i Lamel]; tok ples is highly important when giving speeches; for counting; certain activities have associated „talk‟ that gives it power; different dialects are important for local identities.

Co-ordinate with SIL, and the adult literacy programs; tok ples competitions; strengthen tok ples teaching in elementary schools.

Leadership All Lihir There are different types of leaders now for different purposes.

Document earlier forms of leadership; changes in function; ways to achieve status.

Traditional social structure

All Lihir Clan and social structure provide our identity, and access to resources, such as land. Clan members must work together for social harmony.

Document stories and myths associated with the origin of different clans and sub-clans.

Songs All Lihir Wide variety of genres, including modern hymns. Earliest recording of Lihirian songs taken in 1908 by Otto Schlaginhaufen.

Recording projects to document and promote use of Lihirian oral culture. Locate early recordings by Radio New Ireland.

Stories All Lihir, but also locally-specific narratives.

Place origins, clan origins, creation myths. Document and record the different stories, life histories, and myths that relate to places, people, and events.

Rituals All Lihir, but also locally-specific rituals.

For fishing, gardening, pig-rearing, custom work.

Document and record different rituals.

Initiations All Lihir Tolup house for women; secret societies for men.

Document past practices; locate any images of these practices.

Dancing / Singsing tumbuna

All Lihir Men and women‟s dances; different dances for different occasions; some introduced from other areas; knowledge of dance performance is being lost with older generation.

Document and record different dance styles and decorations; develop programs to encourage performances

Marriage All Lihir Marriage practices have changed; higher level of fighting and divorce than before; respect between partners is declining.

Custom marriage school to be developed.

Attitude and behaviour All Lihir (strong emphasis on „affected areas‟)

Leadership and other social changes have led to the breakdown of social relations and respect. Restoration of traditional obligations and social protocols is required.

Custom school to be promoted in the men‟s house.

Traditional healing techniques

All Lihir Need to preserve leaves and trees that are required for medicinal purposes; need to preserve knowledge of traditional treatment methods.

Documentation of traditional medicines and methods; ensure that knowledge is passed on between generations.

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Gardening All Lihir Different types of species are used in Lihir. Different gardening knowledge is held throughout the islands. This knowledge is not always being passed to younger generations, especially as people are more dependent upon store food.

Check SIL species and cultivar term lists. Check Macintyre and Foale documentation of plant names (see 2001 SIA Report, Appendix 1B). Continue this work if not already complete. Document forms of traditional knowledge associated with gardening techniques.

Body paint, tattooing, scarification

All Lihir Different body decorations for customary events and performances; scarification as traditional healing technique.

Document and record different decorations and tattoo styles and their meaning

Trepanation / kuel pas One practitioner on Malie and another on Aniolam. There used to be practitioners Lihir wide.

Documented by Martha Macintyre et al. (2005). Filmed by Bainton and Foale in 2005. Concern that the skills will be lost; many people still want to use this form of treatment. It is also a marker of distinct Lihirian identity.

Ensure that the skills are taught to new practitioners. Locate other recordings of this healing technique. Documentary film to be made from 2005 footage.

Recent oral history All Lihir Oral histories of first contacts, missionaries, WWII, early history of mining, natural disasters (pre-WWII tsunami).

Oral history recording project to commence.

Shell money (mis) being produced on Masahet.

Kut of Mahur was interviewed during the preparation of this plan. He was born around 1900 and is probably the oldest person alive in Lihir, if not PNG. Old people are the keepers of the knowledge of cultural heritage. Respecting this knowledge and recording details of cultural practices from these people is vital for younger generations to understand their history and cultural inheritance.

Group from Masahet performing masked dance.

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Lihir cultural heritage sites

Site Type

Location(s)

Details Work to be done

Men’s House / Hausboi

All Lihir Important to “strongim ol hausboi” as an institution. The Hausboi is no longer respected as the “parliament” that it should be. Often used as a “spak haus”. Big men often do not sleep there any more, rather they sleep outside with their wives. This means that they are absent and not providing guidance for younger members of the hausboi. The hausboi is no longer made from traditional materials.

Review and update Colin Filer‟s (1992) Hausboi Survey. Set in place a regular review and updating process. Propose „hausboi project‟ aimed at reinstating the hausboi as the centre for traditional learning. Pilot project for construction of traditional men‟s house.

Spirit Beings and places / Tandal / Masalai

All Lihir, but locally specific

These sites are significant for each clan; they are a source of power and a primary portal to the spiritual realm. There is declining respect for sacred sites; some sites are under threat from development activities; outsiders need to be educated on the significance of these sites; sacred sites should be documented.

Generate classification of different types of sacred sites, with corresponding assessments of relative sensitivity and importance. Check for completeness of maps. Survey areas not previously covered (e.g interiors of each island). Thorough documentation of the Ailaya is required. Set up a site protection policy and process. Include information on sacred sites in LGL Induction.

Mok sacred sites All Lihir Taboo locations (commonly reef sections where old men‟s teeth are thrown); a feast is required to lift the mok. A mok taboo can be permanent. Women are restricted from these areas.

Confirm that all major, longstanding mok have been mapped. Document the processes, stories, and feasts that accompany mok sites.

Group boundaries All Lihir See especially stone wall on Malie that divides the moieties.

Check to see if this is adequately mapped by Burton and LGL mapping section. Document the history of this boundary and any other major group boundaries across Lihir. Potential to integrate these into „cultural tours‟.

Transportation routes All Lihir Traditionally by canoe at sea, and also walking tracks across and around the islands.

Map all sea routes and overland tracks. Potential to incorporate these into „cultural tours‟. Document stories and history associated with these routes.

Stone walls / welot All Lihir Particularly prevalent on small islands. Stone walls demarcate hamlet boundaries.

Map distribution across island group, detailed map of representative sample could be produced as part of documentation process. Document any knowledge or activities associated with the construction and maintenance of these walls.

Stone fish traps Masahet, Malie See Simon Foale‟s (2004) report for documentation.

Complete map of fish traps – use of low-level aerial photography could be used. Check Foale report for any other information that should be documented.

Old village/hamlet sites

All Lihir Evident across all islands. Archaeological survey work to continue.

WWII sites All Lihir Fighter plane wreck on Masahet Island. Note apparent aircraft bunkers at old airstrip below high school.

Focus on oral history of WWII, perhaps map aircraft bunkers. Check PNG and Australian war records for details on Lihir.

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Mission history sites All Lihir Palie Mission station as first base for Catholic Church. United Church based near Samo.

Ask Bishop Ambrose and others about sites of historical importance in Lihir.

Colonial history sites Aniolam Relics of plantation and other colonial era houses or structures evident across Aniolam.

Document all sites of significance from colonial period. Interview ex-kiaps and plantation owners. Check Patrol Reports for Lihir.

Caves All Lihir Caves with surface evidence of habitation or archaeological deposits, or rock art. Particularly significant caves evident on Mahur Island.

Archaeological survey work to continue. Document stories associated with caves on Mahur Island.

Graves, cemeteries, ossuaries

All Lihir Human remains evident in old hausboi sites, and in caves.

Archaeological survey work to continue.

Rock art sites All Lihir Painted rock art, usually on cliff-faces, or engraved rock art, possibly in caves. Several exist on Malie. Reports of cave with engraved faces on Mahur.

Photograph drawing of engravings at Mahur cave to be presented at 2010 church launch. Document stories associated with these caves on Mahur. Document and photograph all rock art sites across Lihir

Archaeological sites All Lihir Open sites containing archaeological materials (e.g. obsidian fishhook site near Komat).

Archaeological survey to continue.

There are a wide variety of different places that have significance for Lihirians. Documenting and understanding the significance of these places will be a major part of the work of the Lihir Cultural Heritage Program.

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Lihir cultural heritage objects

Artefact Details Work to be done

Traditional Decoration / Bilas Malaggan masks, kapkap, woven arm bands, shell money, leaves, body paint etc. Modern forms of decoration are replacing traditional materials.

Check bilas documentation project by Macintyre and Foale. Continue this work.

Sculptures / Mormor Over-modeled skulls placed on poles for display during final stages of Tutunkanut feast. These were used instead of malaggan carvings. This ritual activity was last performed on Mahur Island in 1987,

Document stories of use, meaning, and significance.

Shell money (mis / a le) Commonly produced on the smaller islands. Regularly used in ceremonial exchange.

Full documentation of types, rank, and uses, and establishment of a representative collection for a future cultural centre.

Drums, musical instruments Variety of percussion and wind instruments commonly produced and used throughout Lihir.

Documentation of all types of musical instruments and occasions for use. Establish a representative collection for a future cultural centre.

Woven artifacts Variety of baskets, and mats commonly produced and used throughout Lihir. Some skills and knowledge are in decline.

Document all types of weaving. Establish a representative collection for a future cultural centre.

Clothing Traditional attire is still used in traditional performances. Knowledge of production, materials, and contexts for use is in decline. New styles of western clothing have replaced traditional dress; dance troupes often coordinate their modern costumes.

Document different forms of traditional dress and the occasions for use. Establish a representative collection for a future cultural centre.

Canoes and maritime technology

Lihir has a variety of canoes, sailing canoes, paddles, canoe decorations and designs. Expeditions were made to neighbouring island groups and within the Lihir group. Canoes are rarely used now; dinghies and outboard motors have largely replaced canoes.

Document different types of canoes and the designs used for decoration. Establish canoe building programs, or a canoe festival.

Garden technology Digging sticks, fencing, storage facilities. Magic and knowledge of spiritual realm commonly used for successful gardening.

Establish a representative collection for a future cultural centre.

Fishing technology Spears, fish traps, lures, nets, sinkers; shark catching formerly practiced. Magic and knowledge of spiritual realm commonly used for successful fishing.

Conduct further documentation if required. Establish a representative collection for a future cultural centre.

Hunting technology Spears and traps were commonly used throughout Lihir.

Documentation of forms. Establish a representative collection for a future cultural centre.

Fighting technology Spears, shields, body paint and decorations. Documentation of forms. Establish a representative collection for a future cultural centre. Commission examples of body paint and decorations to be photographed.

Stone tools Mahur known as as ples (origin) for stone artefacts. Stone mortars and pestles, and obsidian artifacts collected at Palie, held at National Museum.

Survey of family collections. Archaeological survey to continue.

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Objects last century can help to tell the story of the history of Lihir.

There are many forms of traditional woven objects produced in Lihir.

Tools and other moveable object made of shell and stone are found throughout Lihir.

Musical instruments are an important part

of cultural heritage.

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2. Knowledge and resources held outside Lihir

Not all information about Lihir cultural heritage is held within Lihir. Lihir artworks and artefacts are stored elsewhere in PNG and in countries overseas. Historic records are also held in libraries and archives around the world.

The main forms of cultural heritage records or objects that are held outside Lihir are:

the documents of missionary Father Neuhaus – held in Germany;

music from 1908 recorded by Otto Schlaginhaufen – held in Germany (now repatriated to Lihir);

artworks from European maritime visitors. For example the first picture of Lihir by Abel Tasman, dated 1643;

objects held in museums: Lihirian skulls, canoes, paddles, photographs, mats, carvings (see table below);

the history of the colonial period – held in Australian archives;

the history of the mine – records held elsewhere in PNG and in Australia; and

the history of „blackbirding‟ – records held in Australia and elsewhere.

Cultural heritage items of confirmed or possible Lihir provenance in international collections (courtesy of Mike Gunn) (

Country Institution City Total items

Item details

Australia South Australian Museum

Adelaide 1 Skull with incised grooves on forehead

Australia Museum of Victoria Melbourne 29 Stone pestle base; charm

Sling

Stone axe blade x 14

Shell axe blade x 5

Stone club heads x 5

Stone mortar

Stone pestle base

Obsidian J-shaped hook

France Musée du Quai Branly Paris 1 Barkcloth mask

Germany Ethnologisches Museum Berlin 7 Paddle club

Wooden figure x 3

Shark trap

Kapkap

Mouthpiece, wooden hornsbill‟s head

Germany Museum für Völkerkunde Dresden 9 Spear x 7

Pig net

Shark catcher propeller and rope

Germany Museum für Völkerkunde Hamburg 3 Wooden figures

Mask with barkcloth ears

Two-eared barkcloth mask

Germany Unknown collection (ex Linden Museum)

Stuttgart 6 Fishnet

basket

fishnet

piece of roasted sago

model outrigger canoe

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two-eared barkcloth mask

Germany Linden Museum Stuttgart 4 barkcloth mask x 4

Netherlands Private collection Amsterdam 1 two-eared barkcloth mask

Netherlands Koninklijk Institut voor Tropen

Amsterdam 1 dance board featuring painted image of axe and snake

New Zealand Auckland Institute and Museum

Auckland 2 mask x 2

Papua New Guinea

National Museum and art gallery

Port Moresby 6 mask x 2

mortar

pestles

spear

obsidian artefact

Switzerland Museum der Kulturen Basel 1 barkcloth four-eared mask

Switzerland Musée Barbier-Mueller Geneva 2 barkcloth mask x 2

USA Field Museum Chicago 2 barkcloth

garamut slit drum

USA University of Pennsylvania Museum

Philadelphia 1 two-eared barkcloth mask

TOTAL ITEMS 76

Lihirian songs were recorded in 1908 in Leo by Schlaginhaufen on wax cylinders. These old recordings were held in Germany. Some of these recordings have now been reproduced on a CD with recordings of songs made in 2008. Kirsty Gillespie from the Australian National University helped with this project. This is an example of the important work that needs to continue as part of the Lihir Cultural Heritage Program.

21

An important part of any cultural heritage plan is to consider what is most significant about different aspects of cultural heritage. This stage helps ensure that what is most important to people is given priority.

An understanding of significant aspects of cultural heritage enables better decision-making and helps make sure that proposed cultural heritage program actions meet the concerns and needs of Lihirians.

Discussions on this step in the March 2009 Cultural Heritage Workshop produced very clear outcomes that were reinforced at each of the island meetings throughout the workshop. There was widespread endorsement of the most significant aspects of Lihirian cultural heritage.

These aspects were represented in early discussions with the Cultural Heritage Committee as five „house posts‟. Four corner posts: the men’s house; custom law; language; and the clan system and one centre post: leadership:

Some time was then spent discussing each aspect and its significance in relation to maintenance of cultural heritage:

Men’s house

“Yes, everyone should have one. The men‟s house must be there.”

Rooves made of saksak (woven leaves) symbolise the work and unity of the lineage and respect for the men‟s house; permanent materials reduce the need for continual collective work to maintain the men‟s house.

A weak men‟s house means weak leadership.

What defines a men‟s house?

- it is fenced, usually with a dry stone wall (welot);

- there is a house;

- there is a balis (a wooden construction at the door of traditional styled men‟s houses);

- there is a matanlaklak – this is the Y-shaped entrance; it must be respected.

4.

4. What is important

What is most important about our cultural heritage

Men’s house

Clan system

Custom law

Language

Leadership

22

Why are men‟s houses important?

- “it is our university” – a place for learning custom law;

- it is a decision making area, a place for planning : “our parliament”;

- it has power: “power for each clan”;

- a place for all the clan to meet, and for men to teach and look after younger male members of the clan;

- it is the site of hospitality for guests – the obligation to pinari wasier;

- important deceased clan members are buried there;

- some men‟s houses have stones or shells that have power to protect and assist clan members;

- “the men‟s house is the local heritage centre”, it is a “storage centre” for important clan items;

- it is not just a place for sleeping;

- construction of the men‟s house must start with the stone wall and be completed section by section, which is a long process; each stage must be marked by the killing of pigs;

- it has laws, such as how to distribute the food of the men‟s house;

- it is not a place for drinking; it is a place for respect;

- important feasts and exchanges are performed in the men‟s house; and

- it is where men can demonstrate leadership qualities, and the clan can reproduce itself.

The men’s house is the most important institution in Lihir for the

maintenance of cultural heritage

23

Custom law

It is forbidden for women (who do not have the clan right) to go inside the men‟s house (if they do they will have to pay compensation with pigs and shell money. In the past, if they were unmarried then they would have to marry someone from within that men‟s house).

The law is important because if a man marries another man‟s sister, respect must be shown between in-laws – “respectful ways must exist”

Respect is important because hard work and wealth is tied to the men‟s house.

There are many reasons why the law of the gorgor is important:

- it means stop/or “full stop”; or that there is an issue to be negotiated;

- it is a way for a leader to say “here I am” (asserting their rights); and

- it means “we must talk” – time for negotiations.

In the past, the gorgor was taken from the gorgor plant that grew in the men‟s house. This gave it significance. Now it is simply taken from the bush for use.

If custom law is not followed:

- there will not be peace; and

- social stability and harmony will be ruined.

There are laws for plants and resources like land that say how and who can use them.

Custom law is “like our constitution”.

There are laws for interaction between men and women, and young and old, and different relatives.

Clan system

Everyone belongs to a clan.

Each hamlet has a men‟s house, and represents a clan sub-group.

The clan is the base for leadership.

The clan dictates what land you can use, what responsibilities you have.

The clan is responsible for managing and looking after land, the men‟s house and everything above the ground.

The clan is the connection to the spirits, and to sacred sites.

Each clan has a common female ancestor: “the blood line is continuous”.

The clan is the source of individual and collective identity.

People should marry outside the clan, and to the opposite moiety – this will make the clan strong, and create strong links with other clans.

Clan members should work together – pull common resources together.

Each clan has stories for places, stories of their history and land, showing the connection between people and place.

Maintaining the clan is the basis for culture: “culture can stand on top of it”.

Each clan has its own designs, “like LGL‟s uniforms”. Some of this knowledge is being lost.

Each clan has their own important sacred sites, such as tandal, mok, and triu sites.

24

Language

Is important because:

- it is the identity of all Lihirians, and thus provides unity. Others will hear it and know we are people of Lihir;

- for the transmission of custom law, people must use Lihirian. Tok Pisin or English cannot express the true meaning;

- local dialect in Lihir represent local identities;

- the different customs of the islands must be expressed in those dialects;

- words have power to help with different tasks like gardening, fishing, healing techniques, and custom work;

- it gives meaning to the names of places and people; and

- our culture is dependent upon our language.

Leadership

It was there in the past: it must be revived in order to support this work.

The law is maintained by the leader: “his knowledge will feed everyone”.

Knowledge is inherited from clan leaders.

Clan leaders must declare that if men want to drink, that they should not do this in the men‟s house.

Social changes have changed leadership.

Strengthen the four posts first, and then leadership will come.

Role: the clan must become strong and control land and custom.

All clans and their leaders have identifiable designs, and particular mis.

Leadership is both earned and passed from generation to generation. Our leaders have the responsibility of maintaining traditions and passing on cultural heritage.

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Ailaya

An additional topic came up in discussions during this step; the significance of the Ailaya, the prominent rock outcrop that sits at the centre of the caldera on Aniolam, surrounded by mining activity. This step provided a natural opportunity for perspectives on the Ailaya to be heard:

Ailaya is the “history of the whole of Lihir”;

“Ailaya is our religion” (before Christianity came);

“Ailaya is not a spirit belonging to one clan, it is a place that belongs to all of us”;

“it is the foundation of all Lihir”;

“it is our identity”;

Ailaya is important, even on Mahur; even the children this, and the songs and stories about it;

Lekopkop (= everlasting sorrow), it is the water at the base of the Ailaya equivalent to the Christian notion of hell;

Mahur people say: they can look after the things of Mahur, but the things that belong to all of Lihir they cannot. People fear that “one man can make a decision and it will ruin everything”;

Malie was once joined to the ground where the Ailaya is located. When it broke away, they gave it the name „Emangli‟ (meaning „thrown out just now‟). Over time pronunciation has changed into the name Malie;

there is much work to do to care for the Ailaya. In the past, the leaders of Niolam and the islands performed this work. Now the mine is here, the Tinetalgo clan put themselves first;

those who live close to it have work they must do to look after the site itself, and those who live far away also have work to do, performing and maintaining the songs and stories about the Ailaya.

The workshop sessions indicated that the Ailaya is a place of considerable significance to people throughout Lihir, and that its future is a cultural heritage issue of high importance.

Two views of Ailaya pre-mining with open water at its base

Ailaya in 2008 showing the open cut pit behind

26

A wide range of issues affecting cultural heritage were identified from meetings throughout the workshop held across the Lihir Island group. These are as follows:

Clan system and custom law

Custom law has been broken.

We need leadership within the clan: “in the past the whole clan came under one leader”.

Clan system: you must know who is positioned close to you, and who is more distant.

You should be based at your place of birth; people are no longer living close to their birth place.

There are serious, often fatal, consequences for not following custom law.

Men’s houses

Leaders are not staying in the men‟s house, often only young people. The leaders must be there to teach, guide and discipline younger clan members.

The first born has a responsibility to look after the men‟s house.

Rooves made of saksak leaves imply clan unity and respect; the use of permanent materials has changed the activities for maintaining the men‟s house that bring people together.

If children do not see pictures or examples of men‟s houses made from traditional materials they will not know how the men‟s houses were once made.

Strengthen the clan men‟s house: do not go and make a house in the bush and stay there alone.

“I want all this to come back – Lihir will then be peaceful”. The close relationship between the men‟s house/ clans and sub-clans and the spirits is coming undone.

There must be strong leadership in the men‟s house.

Food

Custom food must be cooked correctly (it should be prepared in the polpol and men‟s house).

On Mahur, women want to revive the practice of the polpol.

The correct food must be used for custom.

In the past, custom food meant the pig and yams. Now it does not. People should use shell money to obtain pigs, because “custom sits on top of the pig”.

We need to maintain respect for how food is prepared.

The men‟s house must be able to provide hospitality (food) to guests (pinari wasier).

Food is bought for custom now, not grown by the clan members themselves.

Marital behaviour / gender issues

Bride price – shell money and pigs are given. Now, when spouses fight, some men claim back this payment. This is not right (because the woman continues to assist him in her work).

If you marry someone from somewhere else, they must learn the customs of Lihir, especially what is forbidden, such as using certain names, or not showing respect to in-laws.

5. What the issues are

The major issues affecting the management of our cultural heritage

5.

27

In the past the clan leader arranged marriages. He thought of the men‟s house. Now it seems that married people fight more often because they marry for different reasons.

Women‟s clothing: now women wear shorts/trousers (though this means safety for the girls). Women should wear a laplap, and not paint their nails or wear perfume when they are feeding the pigs (or they may take off).

There is no marriage preparation to teach people the customary ways that strengthen their relationship.

Change and effects on custom practices

Ceremonies: rarhum, katkatop and karat – the correct path must be followed to perform these feasts.

Trading: pigs should be exchanged for shell money (now people just buy them).

Non-traditional items eg. beer and rice, have become incorporated in feasts and exchanges, and is changing the culture. People are “competing through custom” and this creates inflation

Certain trees and plants are medicinal, such as those that used to wash babies, or perform healing practices. This traditional ecological knowledge is being lost as the old people die. It must be preserved.

Traditional construction techniques and technology, such as the use of saksak leaves, and the meaning associated with their use, are not being maintained.

Concerns that modern store food does not sustain children in the same way; that traditional cooking styles are not being maintained; and that there is a lot of wastage with new foods because they can not be stored for long.

“There is no respect for custom”.

Some LGL workers do not respect the law of the place (eg. women wear trousers in the workplace, or physically work above men), and new people to Lihir also do not show respect.

Customary knowledge is there but it is just not used.

Balo type men‟s houses are rarely used for final karat feast; instead of performing rorhiabalo, now people construct a bed and perform rorhiahat, and often there is a lack of respect for this part of the feast.

There is a strong relationship between church and custom. Catholic and Uniting Churches support custom, but some new churches do not. “Church and custom must work together”.

There is concern that custom law is not properly understood by LGL.

In the past strong leadership was rooted in the men‟s house; now there are too many leaders, and many of them are not strong leaders.

There is concern that women are feeding their babies with bottles and not breast milk.

Development brings change to the domestic area, such as the construction of two storey houses where women sleep and walk around on the top floor above men.

There is concern that birth control inhibits the matrilineal line.

Education

How to educate people, especially young people, about custom?

How to revive customary education system in men‟s houses?

How to incorporate Lihirian culture into the school curriculum?

We need to teach the custom names of traditional species.

We need to teach the custom names for places in Lihir.

We need to teach the custom names for resources in Lihir.

Children must follow the lead of their parents and elders – instead of just playing, they should spend time with their parents and elders to learn about Lihirian custom.

28

Language

English skills are important for our future development.

Lihirian skills are important for our future identity and the strength of our culture.

We need to find ways to ensure that Lihirian is taught properly at elementary school, and to ensure it is incorporated into cultural studies programs in the primary school curriculum.

Lihirian language is changing; it is being mixed with Tok Pisin and English. Children are not learning language skills properly.

Many Lihirian words are being abandoned; for example now everyone uses „basket‟ instead of tep or ratz.

The dialects of Lihir should be preserved.

There are changes in: - pronunciation/dialect; - orthography; - vocabulary; - word order (eg. subject-verb-object is becoming object-verb-subject).

These changes come through engagement with other cultures, marriages to outsiders, and development;

How to maintain/preserve cultural traditions

Recording and documenting customary practices.

Language has power, songs and stories have power; some knowledge has to be passed on orally.

Develop programs that encourage different customary practices.

Maintaining places of significance

Some places are important to one clan, and some are important to the whole of an island, such as the caves on Mahur.

Toyen: high peaks that were used as meeting places for groups.

Tandal: respect must be shown; leaders have an obligation to maintain a relationship with their tandal on behalf of the clan.

Mok: restricted reef site where the elderly will throw away their teeth when they fall out; these places are restricted for women; many people fail to respect these sites.

Ailaya: this is important for all Lihirians, but there is concern that “one man can make a decision and it will ruin everything”, or that a group will claim ownership over something that belongs to everyone.

There must be respect for all sacred sites.

We need to develop policies and procedures for looking after our sacred sites.

We need to educate LGL staff and other outsiders about the importance of our sacred sites.

We need to continue to educate our young people about the importance of our sacred sites.

Presenting culture

Festivals: what sorts of festivals do we want to hold? Who do we want to hold them for?

Who will provide assistance with these festivals?

How often do we want to hold festivals?

Cultural centre: how will we develop this? Where will develop this? Who will be responsible an who will assist us? What will it look like and what will its function be?

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A Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis is a common feature of many strategic plans. This step helps us get an overview of the issues. It provides a snapshot of the strategic picture at this point for the development of the cultural heritage plan and program for Lihir.

First, we considered the present strengths and weaknesses of the situation for developing a cultural heritage plan and program:

Strengths Weaknesses

Lihir continues to have a strong culture because the people still maintain the knowledge of custom

Lihir is one island group – there aren‟t very many new people who come to live in the community

custom is changing but it is still practiced regularly

we still have men‟s houses

“some things change but the meaning remains” – if you tell the stories the meaning will be maintained

Christianity (Catholic, United) and custom, the two can work together. Christianity can strengthen custom

celebrations, festivals, cultural days at school are good – competition supports culture

the mine provides resources to strengthen culture

many Lihirians still know Lihirian very well

women continue to use their baskets, and take their baskets to town

there are historical sources, we can locate them, bring them back to Lihir, and translate them into Lihirian

there is strong support for cultural heritage management programs

the Lihir Cultural Heritage Committee exists

people do not follow custom law

leadership is not very strong (in the past there was respect for the clan, clan leaders had power, now it seems like they work only for themselves)

younger generations are not learning about our culture

some other churches (AMC, PNG Revival, ALC, PNG Grace) do not support custom

some custom programs at school (eg. making canoes) did not succeed, or were not given enough continuous support

the mine and development distracts people and makes people think about other things

Lihirian is not taught at school, only elementary

more marriages to outsiders affects our language

some men do not carry Lihirian baskets

we are pursuing many other activities and interests

we are caught up in development politics

6.

6. Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats

The strategic picture for the future management of our cultural heritage

30

Second we considered the future opportunities and threats for the development of a cultural heritage program:

Opportunities Threats

high level of interest/ attendance at the Cultural Heritage Workshop: we can build on/mobilise community support from this

there is lots of support both inside and outside Lihir: we need to harness this

we have good access to different resources and sources of funding

we can be a model for other groups/communities in PNG and the Pacific

this is a chance for LGL to demonstrate its commitment to corporate best practice

we have an opportunity to improve cross-cultural education and understanding

we can succeed through research in partnership

there is a general availability of materials for making custom items

we have many fundraising/business opportunities

committee is widely representative and includes various individual competencies, which means that there is wide acceptance and application for this plan

local TV, radio and news papers will bring the opportunity to broadcast programs on custom knowledge

cultural heritage management may be seen by some as a threat to development

the program may be overtaken by others; or there may be a threat to ownership

competing interests may prevent program from gaining momentum; political battles may overshadow the importance of this work

threats to sites and practices by LGL

attention to destruction of our cultural heritage may create bad publicity for LGL and risk our program

possible lack of secure financial support for committee

possible lack of consensus over direction

lack of leadership, sectarian politics

climate change, tsunamis

damage/ political instability regarding Ailaya

geological instability in Ailaya area

potential inability to negotiate balance between change and custom

local loss of materials for making custom items

potential early mine closure

inadequate preparation for mine closure

loss of knowledge through passing of senior figures

lack of provincial and national government support

TV and internet may turn people away from custom

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During the March 2009 Cultural Heritage Workshop, a range of ideas for encouraging Lihir cultural heritage emerged through workshop sessions held on different islands. The various ideas that had been collected started to fall into groups. During the session on Step 7, these groups were arranged on large leaves: The different groups of ideas were:


men‟s house and custom law

language

custom places

history

events/ celebrations and special projects

education

documentation and research

Ailaya

Cultural centre Some of the main ideas for these groups are: Men’s house and custom law

Make one men‟s house in each clan out of bush materials like it was done in the past as an example to revive the practices associated with traditional men‟s houses.

Form a “Council of Tohie” with several leaders from each clan.

7. 7. Our ideas

The major components and ideas for managing our cultural heritage in the future

32

Document and codify custom laws and distribute a copy to each men‟s house.

Obtain pictures of traditional men‟s houses and put them in the cultural centre.

Review the original hausboi survey (Filer 1992), and update.

Research the changing role of the men‟s house.

Language

Have one regular full page inside „Lihir i Lamel‟ newspaper dedicated to Lihirian cultural heritage and the progress of the Plan.

Hold competitions for children to tell stories in Lihirian language only

Develop the adult literacy program in all wards.

Use the resources written by Father Neuhaus to learn about Lihirian language.

Engage a linguist to document the Lihirian language.

Continue the Bible translation project.

Custom places

Document clan tandal sites; develop a functioning sites register.

Committee to commission a cultural heritage report on the Ailaya.

Develop policies and process for protecting all sacred sites. History

Start oral history projects: colonial era, WWII, Nimamar, the start of the mine.

Record the stories about the Ailaya and include in a report: give a clear statement to LGL.

Locate historical records and archival material for Lihir stored off the island.

Events and special projects

Put all the archival recordings of Lihirian music in one place where people can come and hear them.

Canoe project/festivals.

Record church and string-band songs.

Document custom feasting and other ceremonies.

Hold regular cultural festivals for the public and in schools; incorporate traditional foods only.

Conduct a canoe expedition and exchange with Tabar/Tanga/New Ireland.

Attend and perform in other cultural festivals in PNG and abroad.

Establish carving programs.

Education

Put custom education in school.

Men‟s house days during the week.

Programs for reviving artefacts – carving, weaving, baskets, and have it in the Cultural Centre and/or school.

Cultural Centre

Develop a program for schools to visit and learn about Lihirian culture.

Have a school within the Cultural Centre to provide learning for both Lihirians and those new to the island (LGL induction to be incorporated).

Visit other cultural centres in Australia (Uluru) and the Pacific (Vanuatu).

Establish a working plan for the development of the cultural centre.

33

From all the previous steps above, practical areas of activity for the Cultural Heritage Program were identified. For each area of activity, an objective was developed. Attention was given to ensure that a broad base for the Cultural Heritage Program was devised and that issues and ideas raised during the workshop were included. The objectives will be used to help structure the Cultural Heritage Program and to measure achievements.

The specific objectives for each of the main areas of the cultural heritage program are:

1. Lihir Cultural Heritage Association

Objective: Form a Cultural Heritage Association that represents the people of Lihir and actively works to bring back, strengthen and maintain Lihirian culture

2. Men’s house and custom law

Objective: Maintain, strengthen and renew respect for the men’s house and Lihirian custom

3. Education

Objective: Bring Lihirian culture into all educational systems including schools and men’s houses

4. Language

Objective: Encourage, strengthen and teach Lihirian language to all people on Lihir

5. Documentation and research

Objective: Identify, document and preserve the history and culture of Lihir in order to promote understanding and maintenance of Lihirian cultural heritage

6. Celebrations and special projects

Objective: Hold custom celebrations and undertake special cultural projects that support and promote the value of Lihirian cultural heritage to Lihirians and others

7. Custom places

Objective: Identify, manage and protect Lihirian custom places

8. Ailaya

Objective: Document the history, custodianship and significance of the Ailaya in order to effectively plan for the maintenance of its significance into the future

9. Cultural centre

Objective: Develop a cultural centre to look after Lihirian culture and develop programs to be run through the centre

8. 8. Our objectives

The achievable goals for management of cultural heritage

34

A set of action plans were developed for each of the main areas identified during the workshop. These are thought to be a necessary part of a Lihirian cultural heritage program.

There are nine action plans. Each action plans puts into operation the objectives that were defined for the cultural heritage program as whole:

1. Lihir Cultural Heritage Association


3. Education

4. Language



7. Custom places

8. Ailaya

9. Cultural centre

Together the action plans represent the major functional areas of the Lihir Cultural Heritage Program.

9. 9. Action plans

The actions, responsibilities and resources required for our cultural heritage management program

Preparation of action plans during the March 2009 workshop

35

1. Cultural Heritage Committee

Objective: Form a Cultural Heritage Association that represents the people of Lihir and actively works to bring back, strengthen and maintain Lihirian culture

Tasks Who Resources When

1.1 Prepare draft constitution Nick Bainton LGL/UQ 31 March 2009

1.2 Hold first committee meeting:

Agenda: review draft constitution, review draft Cultural Heritage plan, budget, special event list, Radio New Ireland agreement and Linkage proposal

Committee

Nick Bainton to organise

LGL Cultural Information Office (CIO)

1-7 April 2009

1.3 Hold logo competition:

Prepare briefing sheet for competition with sample logos

Must include image of Ailaya

Top-up and High schools

Committee to select winner

Luke Kabariu LGL (CIO) 11 May – 8 June 2009

1.4 Print caps and shirts for the Committee Luke Kabariu LGL (CIO) 30 June 2009

1.5 Produce Cultural Heritage Plan:

Confirm cover artwork

Produce Tok Pisin and English versions

Graphic design and print

Produce Plan versions in ring binders for Committee

Committee

Nick Bainton

UQ

LGL (CIO)

LGL Media Unit

15 June 2009

1.6 Formally send out Cultural Heritage Plan with cover letter to key stakeholders:

Develop comprehensive mail out list including: LGL, LSDP, NRLLG, LMALA, Women‟s Associations, Churches, NIPG, NCC, MRL, IPNGS & National Museum

Committee

Nick Bainton

Patrick Turuan

UQ

LGL (CIO)

30 June 2009

1.7 Develop capacity building program to strengthen the functioning of the Committee and its ability to provide advice on cultural heritage issues. Consider:

Training, visits to other places (Vanuatu, Uluru, festivals)

Volunteer support through Australian programs such as AYAD and VIDA

Capacity building sessions

Seek funding for Committee capacity-building activities

Committee

Nick Bainton

Luke Kabariu

Patrick Turuan

30 June 2009

1.8 Disseminate information about the Cultural Heritage Program, including:

Radio New Ireland coverage

Regular page in Lihir i Lamel

National papers PNG

Patrick Turuan LGL (CIO) / LGL Media Unit

April 2009 – continuing every month

1.9 Review progress on the Cultural Heritage Plan at a yearly Committee Planning meeting:

Update issues and actions undertaken

Produce new/revised action plans for next 12 months

Review Committee membership and administration

Committee LGL (CIO) LSDP

June 2010

1.10 Undertake major review of the Cultural Heritage Plan every three years

Committee LGL (CIO) LSDP

First review June 2012

36




2.1 Write down the laws on the men‟s house Patrick Turuan LGL (CIO) Jan 2010

2.2 Write down all penalties for breaking the law within the men‟s house

Patrick Turuan LGL (CIO) Jan 2010

2.3 Identify who has the right to deliver such penalties Patrick Turuan LGL (CIO) Jan 2010

2.4 Identify potential group to construct a saksak men‟s house (within men‟s house welot/enclosure)

Peter Toelinkanut LGL Media Unit Report back to Committee by Jan 2010

2.5 Identify people to form a men‟s house sub-committee (with reps from each zone)

Purpose:

Getting men to return to the men‟s house

Strengthen respect and knowledge of the men‟s house

Strengthen the ways of the polpol for the men‟s house

Peter Toelinkanut

Joane Saet

(form sub-committee with 2 reps per zone)

Committee July 2009

2.6 Identify a men‟s house to follow a men‟s house protocol list:

Set an example for other men‟s houses / lineages

Follow customary laws outlined in custom law project

Peter Toelinkanu

Joane Saet

(sub-committee)

Committee Jan 2010

2.7 Write down all custom laws:

Review first custom law document (Peter Toelinkanut)

Incorporated into LGL cultural awareness program

Discuss relevant laws and customs with LGL that relate to employment, such as women being physically above men, promoting women wearing laplaps

Peter Toelinkanut

Luke Kabariu

Nick Bainton

LGL (CIO) Committee

Dec 2009

2.8 Initiate a marriage school based upon custom knowledge:

To be run in conjunction with Church marriage preparation program

Lawrence Klamga

Leonard Pamas

Luke Kabariu

Committee LSDP

Dec 20 09

2.9 Record clan designs / art designs Luke Kabariu

Patrick Turuan

LGL (CIO) Jan 2010 - continuing

2.10 Reform use of gorgor:

To be done conjunction with LGL and LMALA (Gorgor Policy)

Combined with cultural awareness program (LGL)

Peter Toelinkanu

Luke Kabariu

LGL (CIO)

LGL Media Unit

LMALA

Nick Bainton

Start June 2009

2.11 Cultural centre:

Men‟s house to be represented in the Cultural Centre

Committee Committee 2012

37

3. Education



3.1 Lihir cultural studies program to developed / reformulated in school curriculum:

Discuss with Head Masters (during in-service program second half 09)

Discuss with LSDP Education (Pamela Lysaght and Liz Diamol)

Discuss with LLG Education

2010 implementation in curriculum

Cultural studies curriculum sub-committee to be formed

Work with community curriculum committees

Luke Kabariu

Nick Bainton

(sub-committee)

LGL (CIO)

LSDP Education

Meeting held by Dec 2009

3.2 Full page in „Lir i Lamel‟ on Lihirian culture written in Lihirian:

Quarterly contribution to paper

Maria Tohielats

Patrick Turuan

(form sub-committee)

LGL Media Unit Beginning Jan 2010

3.3 Culture Day to be reinstated in all schools:

Discussion to be held with Head Masters in 09

School cultural days to be annual event beginning 2010

Luke Kabariu LGL (CIO) Beginning Jan 2010

3.4 „Men‟s house school‟ to be revived for all children in all schools:

Build traditional men‟s house within school grounds

Custom leaders to deliver program

Annual programs incorporated into curriculum

Female children to learn from female leaders from

their communities

Luke Kabariu LGL (CIO) Beginning 2010

38

4. Language



4.1 Lihirian language in all schools. Put it into the school program:

Lihirian language classes to be incorporated in cultural studies curriculum

Concentrate first on names and words associated with Traditional Ecological Study, and custom law

Discuss possibilities with Head Masters, LSDP Education, LLG Education

Luke Kabariu LGL (CIO) Meetings to be held 09

Commence 2010

4.2 Language competitions to strengthen Lihirian in all schools:

Incorporated into school cultural days

Incorporated into Cultural Studies curriculum

Luke Kabariu LGL (CIO) LSDP

Meetings to be held 2009

Commence 2010

4.3 Adult literacy and home school in all wards of Lihir (15 wards):

Develop program outline, budget, resources required

Maria Tohielats

(trainers / sub-committee formed)

LSDP Dec 2009

4.3 Bible translation – complete translating the Bible into Lihirian:

Book of Ruth and Mark completed (unsatisfactory translation)

Use Neuhaus dialect/translations

Collect Neuhause records

Discuss with Bishop Ambrose Kiapseni

Re-form Bible Translation Committee, develop strategies for progressing this project

Maria Tohielats

Luke Kabariu

Translation Committee

LGL (CIO)

LSDP

Catholic and United Church

Meeting with Translation Committee/re-form Committee Dec 2009

2015 project completed

4.5 Document all foods, plants, fish and birds in Lihirian:

Review work by SIL, Macintyre and Foale

Incorporated into Adult Literacy Program (elders to supply information)

Luke Kabariu

Nick Bainton

Patrick Turuan

Maria Tohielats

LGL (CIO)

LSDP

2011 complete

4.6 Translate Father Neuhaus‟ work in order to strengthen Lihirian:

Nick Bainton (and Chris Ballard) to recruit translator German/English

Nick Bainton

Chris Ballard and

academic translator

LGL

UQ

ANU

Begin 2010

4.7 Professional linguistics study:

Nick Bainton (and Chris Ballard) to recruit linguist

Nick Bainton

Chris Ballard

LGL

UQ

ANU

Begin 2010

4.8 Find all archival records of Lihirian language Nick Bainton

Chris Ballard

LGL

UQ

ANU

Begin 2010

39




5.1 Document and write up true Lihirian custom:

Ways

Stories

Incorporated with Custom Law project

Peter Toelinkanut

Nick Bainton

Committee

LSPD

LGL (CIO)

Begin Aug 2009 - continuing

Annual review

5.2 Record big customary events (video/audio/photo):

Ordination, custom feasting

Church opening on Mahur (Aug 2010)

Masahet canoe project / expedition to Tabar

Awareness of CH Plan and documentation projects to commence 2009 (groups to submit expression of interest to Committee)

Luke Kabariu

Committee

David Haigh

LGL Media Unit Awareness begin Aug 2009

Start date for documentation

dependent upon events

5.3 Document stories of the history of Lihir:

Ward oral history projects

Life histories, blackbirding, mining, missions, WWII, colonial administration, significant events

Priority on elderly (ie Kut from Mahur)

Committee

Village youth Representatives

Ward Ambassadors

LSDP

LGL Media Unit

Begin Sept 2010

5.4 Oral and Performance Projects

All song genres to be recorded

Performance genres to be recorded

Committee

Kirsty Gillespie

David Haigh

LGL Media Unit Commence Jan 2010

Completed 2012

5.5 Conduct an audit of Lihir artefacts held at museums in PNG, known to include spears, mortars, pestles, two dancing masks from Mahur, malaggan mask collected at Samo, mid-Holocene stemmed obsidian artefacts from Palie, etc.

Nick Bainton

Chris Ballard

ANU

UQ

National Museum PNG

LGL

Completed Dec 2009

5.6 Research the history of Lihir that is held outside PNG, and commence discussions with institutions on arrangements for copies, imaging, access or return, (includes photos, books, artefacts)

Nick Bainton

Chris Ballard

LGL

UQ

ANU

Commence Jan 2010

Completed 2012

5.7 Develop Cultural Information Management System:

Electronic data base to store all archival material, audio-visual recordings, images, cultural information, site data base

Restricted access

Training program for Committee ownership / operation

Develop library of relevant materials for Lihirian Cultural Heritage

Consider conditions - dust, humidity, water, fire

Nick Bainton

Patrick Turuan

David Haigh

LGL (CIO)

LGL Media Unit

Work to commence Jan 2010

System completed Dec 2010

40

5.8 Work with partners to develop research programs that assist the Committee to achieving their objectives in this Plan

PNG: NCC, National Museum, UPNG, IPNGS

International: ANU, UQ, etc.

Nick Bainton

Chris Ballard

Kirsty Gillespie

LGL

UQ

ANU

Commence Jan 2010

Completed 2012

5.9 Traditional Ecological Knowledge:

Document Lihirian TEK

Review existing work by Macintyre and Foale

Develop program for study

Stored on archival database

Knowledge dissemination to schools (posters/booklets)

Luke Kabariu

Patrick Turuan

Nick Bainton

David Haigh

LSDP

LGL (CIO)

LGL Media Unit

Start Jan 2010

5.10 Develop Committee Policy for all social/cultural research Nick Bainton

Committee

LGL (CIO)

LGL Media Unit

Dec 2009

41




6.1 Cultural festivals:

Form sub-committee

With only traditional foods

Incorporate canoe festival / competitions

Luke Kabariu

Committee

LGL (CIO) Sub-committee formed Dec 2009

Events begin 2010 - annually

6.2 School Cultural Festival:

Londolovit town

All Elementary and Primary Schools

Traditional food only

Luke Kabariu

Committee

LGL (CIO)

Individual Schools

LLG Education

Sept 2009

6.3 Canoe project on Masahet:

Document everything: start to finish

Video documentary

Make canoes, teach children

Canoe songs

Trade at Tabar (pik: mis)

Standby boat to travel with canoe

Put a canoe in the Cultural Centre

Establish start times, resources required

Luke Kabariu

Patrick Turuan

David Haigh

Sub-committee

LGL (CIO)

LGL Media Unit

Masahet leaders

Potentially Oct 2009 /

6.4 MV Robert Restoration Project

Organise sub-committee to coordinate project

Peter Toelinkanut to lead Catholic Church

LLG

LSDP

Completed by July 2010

6.5 Calendar of all cultural events on Lihir (dependent upon developing annual events)

Committee LGL Media Unit 2012

42

7. Custom places



7.1 Conduct a pilot site survey project in the Special Mining Lease (SML)

Luke Kabariu

Patrick Turuan

Nick Bainton

LGL (CIO)

LGL Media Unit

Oct 2009 – Dec 2009

7.2 Establish a program of Ward surveys:

Start with the small islands

Use them as a process to engage youth in custom and provide education

Ward Culture Reps

Committee

LGL (CIO)

LSDP

NRLLG/VPC

2010-2011

7.3 Conduct a comprehensive archaeology survey of the Special Mining Lease (SML)

Re-engage UPNG and National Museum PNG

Nick Bainton LGL(CIO) Dec 2009

7.4 Develop a strategy for a systematic archaeology survey of all of Lihir

Engage UPNG and National Museum PNG

Nick Bainton LGL

LSDP

Outside Donors

2010 - 2015

7.5 Plan for protecting all custom places (part of the sites data base project) including: Outline of types of sites, restrictions, penalties and

processes for clearance

Nick Bainton

Committee

LGL (CIO) Dec 2009

43

8. Ailaya



8.1 Document knowledge of the Ailaia (knowledge base):

Significance to all Lihirians

Ritual practices associated with Ailaya

Stories, rangen songs

Early documentation (German etc) + photos and letters

Committee

Nick Bainton

Patrick Turuan

Luke Kabariu

Chris Ballard

LGL (CIO)

UQ

(ANU)

July 2009 –

July 2010

8.2 History of the impact to the Ailaya:

Photos from before and now

Documents

History of compensation; who has given/received

History of decision making process

Committee

Nick Bainton

Patrick Turuan

Luke Kabariu

Chris Ballard

LGL (CIO)

UQ

(ANU)

July 2009 -

July 2010

8.3 Education about the Ailaya:

Cultural awareness included in LGL Social Awareness Training (SAT)

Nick Bainton

Luke Kabariu

LGL Media Unit July 2009

8.4 Projects to be considered when Lihir Cultural Heritage Association is formed:

Geological stability assessment

Seek advice on heritage conservation

Input into mine closure plan

Re-form Ailaya preservation committee

Association LSDP

NRLLG

LGL

Commence Jan 2010

44

9. Cultural Centre

Objective: Develop a Cultural Centre to look after Lihirian culture and start programs that will be run through the centre


9.1 Think of a name for the Cultural Centre Committee 2010

9.2 Consider issues of location and provide advice from the Committee‟s perspective:

Think about preservation needs

Access, visibility in the township

Nick Bainton

Luke Kabariu

Townsite Planning Committee

Duncan Thompson

LGL 2009

9.3 Start programs that will be run through the Cultural Centre. These can commence prior to establishment of the Cultural Centre Building:

Awareness/induction

Education program

Workshops: craft, custom ways, custom knowledge

Produce and sell artefacts

Care for artefacts of the past

Performance area

Publications: CD, education, awareness/fact sheet, films/DVD

TV and radio promotion

Archive: audio, film, books, photos

Committee LGL

LSDP

NRLLG

NIPG

NGPNG

2010-2011

45

“Olgeta tingting na toktok bin kam insait long dispela plen.

Man ken filim, teistim, holim, smelim na kaikaim em”

(“All ideas and discussions have been incorporated into this plan. One can feel it, taste it, hold it, smell it, and eat it” – Tok Pisin)

“pienpiente ka sagoye”

(“say it and do it” – Lihirian)

This plan shows the way to develop a cultural heritage program for all the people of Lihir. This plan will sit under the control of the Lihir Cultural Heritage Committee, and eventually the Association. This Lihir Cultural Heritage Committee will:

oversee the setting up of this plan and program

assess and develop projects to be undertaken within this plan

advise on cultural heritage issues that relate to matters within this plan This plan will help others to understand what we wish to do to maintain custom. It should be used by them to help support our work. Each year this committee will assess the progress of the plan and report back to the community and to other partners. After three years there will be a review of the plan and the ten steps within it.

10. 10. Making it happen

How the plan is going to be used, monitored and reviewed

46

Record of actions achieved under each objective

1. Cultural Heritage Committee

Objective: A cultural heritage committee that represents the people of Lihir and actively works to bring back, strengthen and maintain Lihirian culture

Actions achieved When completed Details




3. Education



4. Language



47







7. Custom places



8. Ailaya



48

9. Cultural Centre

Objective: Develop a Cultural Centre to look after Lihirian culture and start programs that will be run through the centre


49

Glossary Lihirian terms

balis wooden beam at the entrance to the men‟s house (usually only found on traditional style men‟s houses)

balo traditional Lihirian men‟s house

gorgor placement of particular plant used to declare a site forbidden / that there is an issue to negotiate

karat final large-scale funeral feast

kuel pas cranial trepanation

matan laklak Y-shaped entrance to the men‟s house area

mok a sacred site, usually a reef section in front of a men‟s house

pinari wasier hospitality for guests

polpol shelter where women sleep and prepare food for the men‟s house

rangen ritual mourning songs

rihri men‟s house

tieltiel facial tattoos

toyie big man

toyen a high peak, often used as a meeting place in the past

Lekopkop sacred place that is part of the Ailaya

welot stone wall surrounding the men‟s house

Acronyms

ANU Australian National University

DWU Divine Word University

IPNGS Institute of Papua New Guinea Studies

LGL Lihir Gold Limited

LMALA Lihir Mining Area Landowners Association

LSDP Lihir Sustainable Development Plan

MSC Mission du Sacrè Coeur (Sacred Heart Mission)

NCC National Cultural Commission

NGO Non-Government Organisation

NIPG New Ireland Provincial Government

NGPNG National Government of Papua New Guinea

NRI National Research Institute

NRLLG Nimamar Rural Local Level Government

PAU Pacific Adventist University

UPNG University of Papua New Guinea

VPC Village Planning Committee

The Lihir Cultural Heritage Plan

Documents

Transcript of The Lihir Cultural Heritage Plan