Ancient Isaac coastal knowledge share of land, fire and water

The ancient knowledge of cultural burning to dreamtime stories from freshwater to the sea will take centre stage at Isaac Coastal NAIDOC celebrations.

The Koinjmal People from Koinmerburra Country in conjunction with Isaac Regional Council are hosting two events this November.

Staged at St Lawrence Recreation Grounds, the Fire and Water workshop event will be an opportunity for landholders to learn about traditional fire control methods from First Nations author and expert Victor Steffensen.

Samarla and Marissa Deshong from the Koinjmal People will showcase the waterways project – from freshwater to saltwater on Koinmerburra Country with Dr Renee Rossini from Queensland Trust for Nature.

Mayor Anne Baker said the Isaac region is excited to host Victor who is a Tagalaka man and author of the ground-breaking book, Fire Country, and share his cultural burning knowledge.

“Guided by his mentors, Kuku Thaypan Elders, Dr Tommy George and Dr George Musgrave, Victor has worked for decades tirelessly advocating for a decisive Aboriginal voice in land management and ecological services,” Mayor Baker said.

“He has been a key activist for a return to cultural burning practices led by local Aboriginal people holding fire workshops across Australia for farmers, firefighters and government agencies.”

The Fire and Water workshop is on Tuesday, 16 November 2021 from 8am to 1.30pm with free breakfast and lunch included at St Lawrence Recreation Grounds.

The second event - Isaac Coast NAIDOC Community Celebrations – will be 9am to 2.30pm at the St Lawrence Sportsgrounds on Thursday, 18 November 2021.

Division 8 Councillor Viv Coleman said the Ghangalu elder Steve Kemp and his nephew Cameron will share their extensive knowledge in traditional bush food and medicine at the community celebrations.

“Steve and Cameron are also hosting a clap stick art workshop and join the Koinjmal People in a bush walk and talk which will be a fantastic opportunity for students in our region.”

The events are in recognition of the cultural diversity and strength of our community through the Heal Country theme for NAIDOC Week 2021 and are both supported by the Koinjmal Peoples, Queensland Government and Isaac Regional Council. The Fire and Water workshop is also funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.

For more information on the events call 1300 ISAACS (1300 47 22 27).

Published: 3rd November 2021