My connection to country is everything I was taught by my parents, elders and family members and the traditional owners on Country. My connection is through the history of ancestors as I respect them for what they have done for me in the past and how they tried their hardest to keep respect and culture in society. I love my job as the Aboriginal Custodianship Coordinator living with the sea on one side and the bushland on the other side. I love working with team from NACC NRM and how we are catalyst for the environment.
In what ways would you like to see the Australian landcare movement March Forward?
A vision where community is working collaboratively, including each generation looking after Country. The facilitation of schools to engage with community groups around a single site of cultural and environmental significance is building environmental respect, understanding, and inspiring future land carers. Connecting Aboriginal Rangers and Elders through the same process and within these networks adds a layer of community cohesion and respect, that is a foundation for sustained outcomes for Culture and Country.
I would like to see an expansion of outreach to younger generations through schools and digital platforms to inspire future environmental stewards. I think it’s important to encourage greater urban participation in landcare activities, ensuring environmental responsibility is embraced beyond rural communities. Provide funding and leadership opportunities to elevate Indigenous-led conservation initiatives within our community. If we look after Country, Country will look after us.
In what ways would you like to see the Australian landcare movement March Forward?
In regard to Marching Forward I think that working together, being in a group, and with the community or the corporate groups let alone with entities such as the Cardinia Shire, Melbourne Water, Wettenhall Trust and Landcare Australia is the only way to go. This is the way our group is going.