Caring for Country

Recording data on beach patrol| Sea Indigenous Centre Aboriginal Council Country Caring Land River Lockhart Shire
Recording data on beach patrol

Land and sea country is at the core of our people’s cultural, social and economic wellbeing. The health of our community is inextricably linked to our ability to better manage our land and natural assets.

'Caring for Country' is a new Federal Government programme.

It recognises and respects the role of indigenous people in managing Australia's land, fresh water and sea, and in conserving biodiversity. Of course, caring for country is not a new concept to indigenous people.

Protection of sacred sites on the land, islands and reefs and sustainability of natural resources is a responsibility which has been passed from generation to generation of Lockhart people.

With this responsibility comes the inherent right to use natural resources in a sustainable way. Our people have a right to determine their own future. By protecting land, islands and reefs, these natural assets will be able to support our people for all time.
 

  • Kawadji Kanindji land and sea centre

    Land and Sea cultural officer Blade Omeenyo
    Traditional Owners play a key role in managing land and sea. For the first time, the land and sea centre has enabled community-based planning to drive land and sea management.

  • Pest and weed control

    Combating sicklepod on roadside
    The Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council has declared war on weeds and feral animals.

  • Traditional knowledge

    Traditional fire management
    Lockhart River residents – particularly older people – have for many years expressed aspirations to see young people using, trading and managing their own natural resources.

  • Turtles and dugongs

    Sea turtle
    For thousands of years, indigenous hunters have actively and sustainably managed turtle and dugong populations through their cultural practices.