Over the last twelve months, landmark discussions have been held between Bogan Shire Council and representatives from the Nyngan Local Aboriginal Land Council to erect signage acknowledging what is known as the Bogan River Massacre, an incident that occurred in 1841.  

According to reports, the massacre took place in retribution for the murder of three stockmen, after Aboriginal people defended their water rights when the stockmen moved in to water a large mob of cattle.  

The event was the topic of discussion in state parliament of the day and although voices were raised on behalf of both sides of the conflict, the Indigenous people of the area paid the ultimate price.

During a parliamentary debate in 1842, concerning the incident, Bishop Lord Broughton, a member of the Legislative Council of the day is recorded as having said: 

“Anyone who goes among Aborigines and interferes with their natural right of procuring the necessities of existence is an aggressor and whatever proceedings may arise out of these acts are chargeable upon him who first gave the provocation.” 

A mounted force was despatched following the incident and entered the settlement firing upon and cutting down an unknown amount of Aboriginal people with sabres. A tragic event. 

According to Bogan Shire Council, as with any incident, differing accounts are presented by different people depending on their knowledge of the incident and their perspective.  

In order to present as accurate an account as possible of the Bogan River Massacre, extensive research has been undertaken by Council staff in consultation with Local Aboriginal Lands Council representatives.

Journal reports, newspaper clippings and numerous other sources were taken into account when facts were collated.   

This research included reference to the verbatim proceedings of the NSW Legislative Council on 23 August 1842 which included detailed accounts of the incident that took place on the Bogan River in October 1841.  

“The signage will acknowledge the historical incident that took place on the Bogan River whilst at the same time building one community in the Bogan Shire and promoting healing for what occurred in the past.” said Bogan Shire Council General Manager Derek Frances. 

It is envisaged that information signage will be installed as part of Council’s Upper Weir, Lower Weir, and Flood Memorial Park - Recreational Footpath projects.  

This would incorporate a mud map showing trail routes and location of key park elements - as well as information on local fauna and flora and relevant visitor information.  

Bogan Shire Council and Nyngan Local Aboriginal Lands Council are working diligently on the project with the hope of uniting the community by recognising the event and fostering an understanding and hope for the community to move forward as one and to allow spiritual healing for the people of Wangaaypuwan Country.