SOUTHERN Cross University (SCU) is partnering with Ngiyambandigay Wajaarr Aboriginal Corporation (NWAC) and the Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation (YAC) to monitor estuary health and assess cultural resources throughout Gumbaynggirr Sea Country.
The project, titled Empowering Indigenous communities to monitor and measure estuary health and cultural resources in Gumbaynggirr Sea Country, has received $199,317 over three years through the NSW Environmental Trust’s Environmental Research Grants Program.
Indigenous rangers will also work alongside a SCU PhD candidate to develop advanced technical skills in local estuary management on the NSW Mid North Coast.
SCU’s lead investigator Professor Kirsten Benkendorff said she was excited to be guided by Traditional Owners in collaboration with the NWAC Gumbaynggirr Sea Rangers and Yurruungga Rangers.
“This project builds on our successful collaboration with the rangers to investigate impacts on the local mangrove ecosystems in Boambee Creek,” Professor Benkendorff said.
“The survey protocols will be co-designed with Traditional Owners to tread lightly on Country, whilst collecting valuable data.”
The project team will establish sites at Boambee Creek south of Coffs Harbour and the Bellinger River at Urunga to develop methods that can later be applied across other Gumbaynggirr estuaries.
Dean Kelly is the CEO of Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation (YAC) which manages Budaabangbari daalbirrwirr, the Bellinger Valley Indigenous Protected Area consultation project.
“The Gumbaynggirr people have a long history of connection to the sea (gagaal), river (bindarray), creek (yamaan), and mangrove (baru baruga) ecosystems,” Mr Kelly said.
“Integrating modern scientific methods – such as environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling and baited underwater cameras – allows us to monitor changes in our estuaries in direct alignment with our Indigenous seasonal calendar.
Katrina Widders, CEO of Ngiyambandigay Wajaarr Aboriginal Corporation, said her organisation was proud to be working for the protection and preservation of Country and Cultural values.
“This work continues the vital responsibility shared by our communities to safeguard, nurture, and advocate for our lands and waters,” Ms Widders said.
Professor Benkendorff said the project would get under way soon.
By Andrew VIVIAN
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