Title

Negotiated protocol for the use of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge to complement scientific knowledge on the distribution, abundance, movement, ecology and management practices of dugongs in the Great Barrier Reef

Objective

To gather, adapt and/or directly apply Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge into dugong management through a negotiated protocol.

Relevance

There are two major sources of dugong management information: one is mainstream science and the other, traditional knowledge. Traditional knowledge has not been adequately accounted for in the management process. This knowledge may be of much broader management value in relation to social behaviour of dugongs, fine scale movements, sexing in the water etc.

Feasibility

The project is highly feasible. Traditional Owner groups are currently negotiating protocols and management principles for various land tenures (e.g. protected areas). Groups are continually increasing their capacity for data collection, data management (e.g. Geographic Information Systems) and information exchange. Some large region forums are already operating (e.g. Sea Forum with participants from all Traditional Owner groups in the South Great Barrier Reef).

Methodology

The project should be facilitated through the Queensland Indigenous Working Group which includes the Representative Bodies of Queensland, the ATSIC Regional Council Chairpersons and a Commissioner. Project components include desktop study and a number of workshops at local, regional and state level with capacity building part of the workshop framework

Through desktop analysis, two to three best practice process model options would be worked up, narrowed to one to two through a small sample workshop and finalised through a series of local, regional and state workshops.

Cost

Time Required

Six months