The Yorta Yorta people in Victoria have been involved in climate adaptation projects to address the impacts of drought and bushfires.
Image source: University of Queensland.
They use traditional fire management practices to reduce bushfire risks and enhance ecosystem health. Despite their contributions, government policies often overlook their knowledge, favouring modern firefighting techniques that may not be as effective.
Cultural fire is a critical land management tool and a profound expression of ongoing connection to place for Aboriginal people. Empowering Traditional Owners to manage Country through traditional knowledge is a practical exercise in self-determination that will help safeguard Australia from a repeat of the 2019/20 catastrophic bushfires. It is also an opportunity for government to create meaningful relationships with and jobs for Traditional Owners.
Indigenous Firefighting Initiatives
- All-Indigenous Firefighting Crews: In 2020, New South Wales launched its first all-Indigenous firefighting crews within the Rural Fire Service, marking a historic step in integrating Indigenous knowledge into contemporary firefighting efforts. ABC
- All-Female Indigenous Fire Crew: The Lake Tyers Aboriginal Trust in Victoria established Australia’s first all-female Indigenous fire crew, highlighting the vital role of Indigenous women in community safety and cultural preservation.
Indigenous Land Management and Fire Practices
Savanna Fire Management Projects: As of 2021, there are 32 Indigenous-owned and operated savanna fire projects across 17.9 million hectares in northern Australia. These initiatives not only reduce wildfire risks but also contribute to carbon emission abatement, generating significant economic benefits for Indigenous communities.
In the financial year 2023, there were approximately 136,000 Australian volunteer firefighters across the country.
The Symbolic Meaning of Fire
For most non-Indigenous, urban and even agricultural people, fire is perceived as a destructive force and considered anti-civilisation. However, fire holds great spiritual meaning in Aboriginal culture, with many stories, memories and dance being passed down around the fire. Fire also connects Indigenous people to the land, with children as young as four learning about the healing powers of fire for the land and it’s symbolic significance in Aboriginal culture.
READ MORE About “Cool Burning” from the Wattarka Foundation HERE+
