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Don't return Aboriginal 'stolen goods': lobby group

By Bridie Smith

31 July 2004 - Museum Victoria came under increased pressure yesterday when prominent lobby group Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation demanded that three Aboriginal artefacts on loan from British institutions be allowed to stay in Australia.

The chairman of the group, Peter Lewis, said the items were stolen goods and it was important they remained in Australia.

"These are stolen goods and the Dja Dja Wurrung are the rightful owners," he said. The artefacts, on loan to Museum Victoria from the British Museum and the Royal Botanic Gardens were due to go back to Britain this week. However, the Dja Dja Wurrung prevented the return by issuing an emergency declaration under federal Aboriginal heritage laws.

Source: The Age

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