A Tasmanian Aboriginal group is calling on the federal government to hand back a disused army camp on the outskirts of Hobart, most recently used as a detention centre for asylum seekers.
The heritage-listed, 517-hectare Pontville Small Arms Rifle Range Complex, about 30 kilometres north of Hobart, closed as a detention centre in early 2014 and is for sale by the Defence Department, which hopes to secure a buyer before the end of 2015.
There has been interest from farmers - the land was used for agriculture before its government acquisition - but Aboriginal heritage officer Aaron Everett is concerned about protecting the Aboriginal heritage of the land.
"This was once the country of the Mumirimina people, who themselves became refugees on their own lands after the British invasion," Mr Everett said in a statement issued on Tuesday.
Archaeological surveys of the site and surrounding areas suggest Aboriginal campsites extend beneath the buildings on the plot.
"The best method to protect the natural values of this heritage-listed area is to return it to the original owners, which is the Aboriginal community," Mr Everett said.
Proceeds from the planned sale are due to go into defence coffers.
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