Connecting Young People to Cultural Knowledge through Landcare
What started as a conversation about a Junior Rangers program grew into a meaningful day of cultural learning, environmental action and community connection along the Candelo River
Capacity building - LEP036-LLC-008
The issue
Many young people have limited opportunities to learn directly from Aboriginal Elders or participate in activities that connect cultural knowledge with caring for the environment. This project created not only a space for this type of learning, but also an opportunity for Far South Coast Landcare Association (FSCLA) to strengthen its relationship with the Bega Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC).
The solution
When Bega LALC approached us for ideas to support their Junior Rangers Program, it prompted us to draw on our Landcare partnerships, bringing together Aboriginal Elders, Candelo Primary School, Candelo Landcare volunteers, local council and an existing South East LLS revegetation project.
Each partner played an important role. Bega LALC provided cultural leadership and connections with Elders. Candelo Landcare volunteers supported students during planting activities and committed to caring for the site into the future. South East LLS supplied plants, guards and site preparation, while Bega Valley Shire Council approved the works and supports ongoing site management through a Community Environment Grant to FSCLA.
Together, these contributions created a rich learning experience that fostered pride, ownership and a deeper connection to the local landscape.
The impact
We believe that the young people involved in this event now have a deeper connection to their local swimming hole—a cultural lens that brings greater understanding and appreciation of Country and the stories that connect people to place.
They also have the satisfaction of knowing they contributed to the site's future by planting 200 native understory plants. As the vegetation grows and biodiversity returns, we hope they'll feel a lasting connection to this patch of river and who knows—perhaps each time they spot the local Landcare volunteers wandering through town with gloves, tools and high spirits, they'll feel a little connection to that effort too.
Learnings
One of the biggest takeaways from this project was the power of partnerships. Every time we collaborate, trust grows, communication becomes easier and opportunities expand.
Key facts
- Students learned directly from Djiringanj Elders.
- For many of the young participants, the smoking ceremony was a first, sparking plenty of curiosity, thoughtful questions and conversation throughout the day.
- Several young Aboriginal mentors from Bega LALC attended the day and cooked a well-earned BBQ for the primary school students.
- Partnerships are gold!