Reef management strategy draws on Indigenous knowledge
GREAT BARRIER REEF
A new strategy for protecting and improving the health of the Great Barrier Reef will tap into thousands of years of Indigenous knowledge.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Strategy for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park was launched this week by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.
The strategy has ben designed in conjunction with extensive consultation with Reef Traditional Owners, Indigenous organisations, tourism bodies, and government agencies.
Marine Park Authority Board Chairperson, Ian Poiner, said the strategy is about working with Indigenous people to achieve the best outcomes for the reef.
“The ultimate goal is to keep Indigenous heritage strong, safe and healthy, which includes the natural values of our Reef,” he said.
“Containing 30 actions, this strategy will transform the approach to Indigenous heritage protection in our amazing World Heritage Area, and both the Authority and Traditional Owners are excited to be a part of it.”
More than 70 Reef Traditional Owner groups from Cape York to Bundaberg were invited to provide valuable input in developing the strategy, with more than 35 Traditional Owner groups attending workshops.
The GBRMPA’s Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee Chair and Traditional Owner , Phil Rist, said Indigenous communities welcome the new strategy.
“The Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee expresses its appreciation for the cooperative approach that Authority staff took in developing the strategy,” he said.
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have cared for the Reef for thousands of years.
“We have a lifelong physical, cultural and spiritual connection to our land and sea country and we have a responsibility to our ancestors and our next generation to protect our values in the Reef.
“The process and outcome are excellent examples of what can be achieved when management agencies and Traditional Owners work together on important initiatives.”
The strategy includes actions the Authority will take to protect and promote the Indigenous heritage values of the World Heritage icon. Actions already underway or in development include:
- Implementing the Authority’s Reconciliation Action Plan to increase cultural competency and promote reconciliation within the Authority and with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
- Supporting Traditional Owners to lead their own activities to keep sea country strong, safe and healthy
- Facilitating new Traditional Use of Marine Resources Agreements to help with the management, protection and conservation of sea country
- Developing partnerships between Traditional Owners, other government agencies and the private sector to benefit marine park management.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Strategy for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is available online or go to www.gbrmpa.gov.au.
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