Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Land & Indigenous Peoples
by Dr Irene Watson
The earth is our sacred relative; it is a relationship that is based on nurturing, caring and
sharing. From birth we learn of the sacredness of all living things. Every aspect of the
natural world is honoured and respected, and we learn to tread lightly on the earth.
The spirit of creation is in all things, for all life forms are related. The philosophy of
respect for all living things is an idea central to Aboriginal spirituality and is an idea that
nurtured and kept the land in a pristine state prior to colonisation.
WORKING TOGETHER - JOINT MANAGEMENT OF NATIONAL PARKS
Four national parks in South Australia and 32 in the Northern Territory are man-
aged jointly by traditional owners and state, territory or federal governments. Part-
nerships have been born out of the recognition of the traditional owners and their
ties to country, bringing both parties together to manage land for conservation.
'I spent 10 years working at Nitmiluk and I reckon we led the way with the joint
management model that was developed there. Joint management offers employ-
ment for the young fellas, economic opportunities for the broader Jawoyn commu-
nity, and the chance for Jawoyn to get out on their land. I loved being a ranger at
Nitmiluk because every day I got to work on my own country. Now, I'm enjoying
learning about other people's country up here in the wetlands.'
Greg Peckham, ranger, Wildman Ranger Station, Mary River National Park
The Spirit in the Land
The land is sacred because the essence of our spirituality lies in the earth; our spirit
guides are resting in the mountains, in the rocks and in the rivers, and they are every-
where in the land. The land is sacred because it carries the footsteps of our spirit ancest-
ors as they walked every part of it, laying tracks and spiritual songs across the country.
The ancestors lie sleeping deep in the earth and we are responsible for the care of their
places of rest, for their creative powers are alive and influence all things still in the natur-
al world.
If these spirits are disturbed, so too are the natural order and cycles of life. Where sac-
red sites are destroyed we believe the ancestors are disturbed and will no longer protect
or provide for the people. As a result of damaged or destroyed sacred sites, natural disas-
ters and sickness may occur and afflict communities who have not fulfilled their cultural
obligations as custodians. By neglecting our spiritual and cultural obligations we bring
disharmony to the country and the community.
