For reasons of decency, social justice and practical achievement, Gondwana Link works to ensure First Nations people have significant opportunities, including being able to lead significant conservation programs and benefit from the range of those and other programs across the link.
The country that the Gondwana Link program works in and for encompasses the traditional lands of the Noongar, Ngadju and Wongi people. Native Title over significant public land areas has been recognised in recent years, more recognition is likely, and the Noongar settlement seems near final. This restores some rights to the traditional owners, and gives them the opportunity to return to their roles as managers of their land. But they need help to do that.
We show respect and work closely with First Nations people throughout the Gondwana Link. Specific strategies include:
- Developing and supporting groups to establish themselves as land managers, with conservation plans and Ranger Teams in place.
- Encouraging groups and other property owners to provide access to their properties for cultural purposes.
- Strengthening cultural exchange and cross cultural learning.
- Encouraging a consideration of the needs and values of the First Nations peoples in all work undertaken.
- Providing opportunity for cross cultural relationships to develop and flourish.
- Auspicing programs as needed.
The short (9min) beautifully made film below is about the importance of healing country.
