‘an assessment of the existing measures to protect and manage the ecosystem…’ within the Great Barrier Reef Region, s 54(3)(f) of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975 (Cth).
‘an assessment of the existing measures to protect and manage the heritage values…’ of the Great Barrier Reef Region, Paragraph 176(3)(d) of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Regulations 2019 (Cth).
First Nations women across the Reef are connecting their traditional knowledge with marine science and technologies, enhancing understanding of the Reef’s biodiversity. Their approach fosters a holistic and sustainable stewardship of Sea Country that values interconnected cultural, spiritual and ecological knowledge. Climate change and other impacts call for a strong network of Sea Country guardians to monitor, manage and protect biodiversity on the Reef.
“We’re natural nurturers and our connection with other women empowers us to heal ourselves, each other and our communities. We can work with our communities now — using Indigenous knowledge systems and western scientific knowledge, using contemporary technologies and equipment.”
— Francis Joyce, a Mamu Traditional Owner, program participant and ranger
First Nations women are taking a lead role in the management of Reef habitats through programs such as the Sea Women of the Great Barrier Reef program. This is an intensive capacity-building training program delivered on Yunbenun Magnetic Island, bringing together women from North Queensland, Zenadth Kes (Torres Straits Islands) and Papua New Guinea.
“Not many women have had the chance to get out and do this work. It’s been male-dominated, and men have usually got first preference. It’s a big step for women and we now also have a Queensland network of Indigenous female rangers, and it’s growing all the time.”’
— Olivia Mooka, a Girrungun Traditional Owner and program participant
The program enables selected women leaders to share their own Sea Country values and knowledge. Much of the training takes place on Yunbenun, Sea Country of Wulgurukaba Traditional Owners. They learn to merge cultural knowledge with marine science and practical marine skills they can take back to their Sea Country to build sustainable monitoring programs.
“I want to build capacity so the next generation can continue their cultural connections and care for Country.”
— Francis Joyce
Source: Caring for Sea Country – Traditional Owner Stories from the Great Barrier Reef 1
