Connections

Dharug community is already engaging with some of the neighbours and stakeholders of the river through the recent Brown’s Waterhole post-doctoral research. Across 3 years important relationships have been growing, which include Macquarie University, NPWS, bush care groups, Macquarie Business Park corporations, and three local councils.

By holding stakeholder days at the University, reciprocal collaborations have been established, including final year undergraduate PACE (Professional and Community Engagement) research projects, interest in Indigenous fire practices and values, and support in developing required fire and environmental review plans according to government governance.

Additionally, Dharug women camping has been permitted by the Ryde Council – a first since early colonial days. As such, expanding the project to a whole-of-river context takes the next step that encourages neighbours of the river to participate and collaborate involving broader research, education and training, including more State and Local Government agencies, Macquarie University, TAFE, Schools (at all levels) and business corporations. Bringing Dharug traditional custodians back into the picture rejuvenates the relationalities that underpin the understanding: ‘Healthy Country, Healthy People’ and offers Indigenous opportunities in marine and environmental caring for Country practices.