27 April 2009

Indigenous sea rangers and Anindilyakwa Land Council (ALC) representatives from Northern Territory have touched down in Townsville to learn and share knowledge with marine managers and Traditional Owners.

During the week-long visit, they are keen to hear how the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority successfully works with Traditional Owners to protect and manage the marine environment.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Chairman Russell Reichelt welcomed the opportunity to share the agency’s approach to developing partnerships with Traditional Owners.

“We work very closely with Traditional Owners to manage and protect the Great Barrier Reef and are delighted to share our experiences with these rangers from the Northern Territory,” he said.

“Traditional Owners are continuing to work with us to develop culturally appropriate strategies for the conservation and sustainable use of the Marine Park.

“This helps ensure the Reef remains healthy and helps ensure future generations can continue to keep their cultural practices alive.

“This information exchange is an excellent opportunity to share knowledge and experience with everyone involved in managing sea country.”

ALC Chairman Tony Wurramarba said the trip was an important opportunity to share each others’ knowledge and experience face-to-face.

“One of our roles is to manage an existing Indigenous Protected Area,” he said.

“We are further exploring ways to enhance protection and management of the natural resources and cultural values of our traditional lands and seas following recent legal rulings.”

During their visit to north Queensland, the rangers will hear how the agency works with Traditional Owners to develop Traditional Use of Marine Resources Agreements (TUMRAs).

These agreements help ensure Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people undertake activities according to their customs and traditions in a sustainable way.

The rangers will travel to Cardwell to meet with Girringun Traditional Owners, who have a TUMRA in place.

The Territory visitors will give a presentation outlining Anindilyakwa sea management practices and accompany field staff on a boat patrol. They will also meet Mamu Traditional Owners.

The Anindilyakwa Land Council represents the Aboriginal people of the Groote Eylandt archipelago located on the western side of the Gulf of Carpentaria, around 600 kilometres from Darwin.