Centre for Rock Art Research + Management
The Centre for Rock Art Research + Management (CRAR+M) was established in 2010 at the University of Western Australia (UWA) to integrate rock art research and scholarship. CRAR+M brings together rock art experts to undertake innovative research, develop new techniques, to work with Aboriginal communities to protect their heritage – and to disseminate information about this precious resource.
The CRAR+M Database was established by ESS in 2012 with funding from the Pilbara Development Corporation. It is the repository for ongoing research projects by CRAR+M researchers and is now the largest repository of rock art data in Australia. As well as rock art data, the CRAR+M Database houses information on all major projects undertaken by Archaeology at UWA. Researchers store their data in this space, with the information accessible to relevant staff and students as well as associated institutions, collaborating Aboriginal communities and partners for research purposes.
Partner Aboriginal communities can access the data through established cultural protocols to ensure the cultural safety of the community members accessing this information. The CRAR+M database is an essential tool aiding the repatriation of rock art and heritage information to traditional owners.