Mabo Moment for Great Barrier Reef as Scientists and Indigenous Elders Join Forces to Preserve Marine Heritage
Melbourne/Sydney, Nov 18 - In a groundbreaking collaboration, scientists from the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and Taronga Conservation Society have joined forces with traditional Indigenous elders to develop new methods for preserving the Great Barrier Reef's marine heritage.
The initiative marks a significant shift towards co-management and cultural safety in the face of climate change, which is increasingly threatening the world's largest coral reef system. The partnership involves more than 70 groups of First Nations peoples who are traditional custodians of the reef.
Researchers and Indigenous elders gathered on Konomie (North Keppel Island) in Central Queensland earlier this year to train their peers in gathering coral spawn, larval rearing, and cryopreservation methods for biobanking. The collaboration marked a significant departure from previous practices that often ignored cultural considerations.
Traditionally, the Woppaburra people believe all things living and non-living are spiritually connected to Country (land) and people. Removing coral samples from their country breaks this vital connection. By acknowledging this cultural understanding, scientists can work towards preserving the reef's resilience while respecting Indigenous values.
"Getting it right is in everyone's best interests," said a researcher involved in the project. "By engaging with traditional owners through free, prior, and informed consent, we are recognizing the rights of Indigenous peoples to management decisions over their sea country."
The partnership has led to the development of new protocols for biobanking samples, including how to return coral larvae to their country of origin and transfer custodianship. This represents a world-first in involving traditional custodians in decision-making processes.
Furthermore, researchers are exploring the potential for "coral IVF" using sperm and eggs from different sea countries to create baby corals that can be released back into the wild to support reef resilience.
As climate change continues to affect the Great Barrier Reef, this collaborative approach will play a crucial role in preserving marine heritage. The project sets an important precedent for co-management partnerships between scientists, resource managers, and traditional Indigenous custodians of sea Countries.
The Future of Conservation
The success of this partnership has significant implications for conservation efforts worldwide. By recognizing the importance of cultural safety and engaging with traditional owners in management decisions, organizations can work towards more effective preservation of marine ecosystems.
As Dr. [Name], a researcher involved in the project noted: "This is just the beginning. We aim to share our knowledge and collaborate with Indigenous communities to develop new practices that prioritize cultural safety and ecosystem resilience."