Mosaic Map: NRM funded projects
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Indigenous groups encouraged to 'talk for country'
Indigenous people from across South Australia's Murray Darling Basin region are combining traditional knowledge of the environment with modern techniques to enhance their job opportunities.
Participants in the scheme are working on a diverse range of conservation projects and using their new-found skills to gain accreditation for the Conservation Land Management Certificate.
Capacity Building Regional Coordinator Sarah Lance said the scheme is just one project to come out of a series of cross-cultural workshops.
Funding
The Cross-Cultural Awareness Workshops have been supported by $80,000 from the Australian and State Governments.
Activities
"The workshops have made environmental managers more aware of Indigenous groups in the area and introduced them to people who can 'talk for country'," Sarah said.
"We include a range of activities and presentations at each annual workshop to help all groups share their ideas and experiences. Participants gain valuable insights into local Aboriginal culture such as stories, bush tucker tracks and middens and we have been privileged enough to visit some of their special sites.
"One of the most useful aspects of the workshops is the sharing process. Indigenous participants learn about the environmental projects we're doing in the region and we encourage them to get involved, which certainly seems to be happening.
Achievements
"For example, the people now working towards their Conservation Land Management Certificates have done some amazing work, from fencing native vegetation around Lakes Albert and Alexandrina to fish and water quality monitoring.
"Strong networks have been created, particularly between the younger generations and environmental project coordinators. They're working together from the very beginning of projects, which is producing some really positive results."
Indigenous communities are undertaking a range of projects in partnership with organisations such as Local Action Planning groups, the SA Murray Darling Basin Natural Resource Management (SA MDB NRM) Board and Greening Australia.
"These projects are a fantastic example of what can be achieved when Indigenous and non-indigenous groups join up to protect our precious natural resources," Sarah said.
More information
- Sarah Lance, Murray Darling Basin Board: (08) 8532 5110 or slance@lm.net.au
- SA MDB NRM Board
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