Mosaic Map: NRM funded projects
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Perth wetlands Indigenous project
You could visit Perth Zoo and see a tortoise or, from an Indigenous perspective, a 'Yaarkin.' Similarly, you could visit Whiteman's Park and spot a black duck or, from a different perspective, a 'Yerdarap.'
Nyoongar language, culture, heritage and identity are being brought into focus through an Indigenous wetlands project coordinated by the Swan Catchment Council.
Project Officer Joe Collard said the aim was to provide a Nyoongar perspective to natural resource management through community education and partnerships.
Funding
Work is being funded by the Australian Government and with cash and in-kind contributions from the State Government.
Activities
"It's very important that we embrace our value, culture and customs and support from the whole community is needed," Joe said.
"I work with local governments and environmental groups to achieve an integrated approach. Nyoongar involvement in natural resource management along the Swan Coastal Plain is vital to the protection of the wetlands, waterways and cultural heritage."
Perth Zoo is in discussions with Joe over interpretive signage for visitors to its 'Australian experience,' exhibition to educate people about Nyoongar stories and history and to share language. Whiteman's Park has also expressed an interest in eco-tourism, with Nyoongar people teaching bush tucker and other plant uses on its reserve.
For example, the Marri (Red Gum) has seeds that were used by Nyoongars as medicine for sore throats and stomach upsets. A sweet drink was made by soaking Marri Ngumbit (blossoms) in water and spearheads were glued with the gum sap. Joe is also working on a wetlands 'A-B-C' chart to show Nyoongar terms such as 'Koonak' meaning small freshwater crayfish or 'Bila,' meaning Tailor.
"Ultimately our aim is to ensure heritage management plans are prepared right across Perth to ensure the protection of Nyoongar cultural heritage," Joe said. "The plans will have Indigenous terms of reference to guide consultation, community engagement, protection and acknowledgement of Nyoongar heritage.
"We want to add an extra value into people's planning and achieve an Indigenous perspective and understanding. While there are many activities designed to protect the ecological condition of the remaining wetlands, very few address and promote the significance wetlands have to Indigenous people. This project will give an Indigenous perspective and raise awareness."
More information
- Joe Collard, Project Officer: (08) 9374 3310 or joseph.collard@dec.wa.gov.au
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