Light rail project unearths Parramatta's history

The exhibition will take visitors on a journey through the ages with insights into the Traditional Owners of the area, identified as the Burramattagal or Boromedegal, to the treasures buried beneath the Parramatta 'Sand Sheet' – an ancient geological formation formed more than 70,000 years ago, to its colonial European heritage.

This is an exciting opportunity to discover the stories of the many hidden artefacts that were buried beneath the city and carefully unearthed during archaeological investigations.

The artefacts, including tools made by the Traditional Owners of the area as well as early colonial objects, have been carefully preserved and will be presented with sensitivity and care.

Many of Parramatta's culturally significant and sensitive heritage sites along the light rail route, including Aboriginal places of significance, the Cumberland Precinct, former Rum Corps Barracks at Robin Thomas Reserve, and the World War II air raid shelter uncovered at Camellia, will be showcased.

The exhibition, free of charge, will open at the Parramatta Heritage and Visitor Information Centre on Thursday 7 April. Other events will be held during the exhibition as part of National Archaeology Week from 15 to 21 May 2022.

Read the full media release.