Aboriginal representation and participation in caring for country
Aboriginal representation and participation in caring for country Conference Paper
16th Australian Rangeland Society Biennial Conference
- Author(s): Robinson, V., Spencer, W.
- Published: 2010
- Publisher: Australian Rangeland Society
Abstract: This paper introduces Walgett’s Dharriwaa Elders Group and its role to provide advocacy and representation for Walgett Aboriginal elders in Aboriginal cultural management and community development activities. It explains why it is important for Aboriginal people to first know about, and then actively participate in any scientific, planning, management and development activities in their country of interest. It discusses why Aboriginal participation in caring for country is and has been difficult, and cites examples from its experience with the Narran Lakes Co-Management Committee and the Catchment Management Authorities. It proposes a more effective model for the promotions of Aboriginal participation in caring for country, including how advisory and co-management committees could work better. It gives a summary of the work of the Dharriwaa Elders Group in trying to protect the Aboriginal cultural heritage values of the area known as Opal Prospecting 4, adjacent to the Narran Lakes Nature Reserve, and ends by suggesting ways that Aboriginal communities can participate more usefully in the management of landscapes. Indeed, the DEG has its own cultural heritage management strategy to provide for the protection and preservation of areas with known and important Aboriginal heritage values, which identifies all of the resources, responsibilities and procedures needed to prevent deterioration of Aboriginal cultural values.