The National Custodians of Country Gathering has evolved from the National Indigenous Fire Workshops that grew from the Fire Research Project of respected Kuku Thaypan Elders in Cape York. The 2023 Gathering on Djabugay Country brought together a diverse group of people from across Australia engaged in Cultural Fire and land management practices. Participants shared knowledge and experience with each other, gaining an insight into the interconnected components of Cultural land and sea management practices and the responsibility of looking after Country. Through cultural workshops, on-Country experiences and conference symposia, the Gathering showcased Indigenous innovation in contemporary land and sea management, including threatened species management, biodiversity, Cultural Fire and agriculture.
Djabugay Country | Credit: Annette Ruzicka
Biri Bulmba Budang National Custodians of Country Gathering 2023 was hosted by Wet Tropics Bama with Firesticks. The event was proudly supported by Landcare Australia and the First Nations Landcare Working Group.
"The Gathering brought greater awareness and opportunities to wider Australia about the important role of traditional Indigenous Knowledges, and allowed people who attended to learn first-hand how traditional knowledge and governance can inform future solutions. I think the theme of the Gathering ties it all together, which is that we are stronger together.”
Barry Hunter, Djabuguy Traditional Owner
