Modern methods to maintain cultural heritage management

THE Dhudoroa Waywurru Aboriginal Corporation (DWAC) is a shining example of how targeted efforts in skill development and education can empower Indigenous communities to manage and care for their lands. The organisation’s initiatives focus on providing its members with the necessary accreditation and practical experience to care for their regions and contribute to sustainable land and water management. The DWAC is dedicated to the well-being of its community and the preservation of the natural environment that holds cultural and spiritual significance. A recent milestone in this journey has been the completion of specialized courses, including the most recent chainsaw and drone operation training in the Myrtleford area; equipping members with the skills necessary to enhance their role in cultural heritage management. "The Dhuduroa Waywurru Aboriginal Corporation has become a key force in the northeast," Cultural Heritage Consultancy Group spokesperson, Tekiri 'Tee' Whana, a Kamilleroi descendant, said. "[It has] pioneered a new wave of eco-tourism while also creating valuable employment and training opportunities." The chainsaw training course provided participants with the technical expertise required to safely operate chainsaws while also focusing on environmental stewardship. Mastering chainsaw operation not only facilitates better land care but also contributes to maintaining the health of the environment in accordance with traditional knowledge and modern conservation practices. In recent years, drones have proven invaluable for surveying, monitoring vegetation, wildlife and even tracking changes in landscapes that may require attention. The course held in December last year, taught participants how to use drones effectively for aerial surveys and monitoring and to capture high-quality data to allow members of the Dhudoroa community to gather critical information about their land. The ability to access remote areas from the air without disturbing the environment will significantly improve the monitoring of fire risks, water sources, and the overall health of the ecosystem. Both chainsaw and drone courses enhance the capacity of the Dhudoroa community to manage their land independently and sustainably. "By continuing to offer high-quality, accredited training, the corporation is ensuring that Aboriginal communities are ready to face the challenges of land management in the 21st century, while preserving their unique cultural connection to the land for generations to come," Ms Whana said. "This would not have been possible without the support of the local community and businesses. "In particular, Dale Mitchell from Alpine Logging and Chris Warrior from Wiru Drone Solutions helped to facilitate participant attainment of the required skills." Mr Mitchell, a spokesman for the Forestry Forum in 2021 and provider of the forestry industry for well over 30 years, has continuously supported the acquisition of forestry credentials and provided both the expertise and the property where necessary. "We often help the CHCG by providing some services, in this case; some forest areas to do their training in," Mr Mitchell said. “Other times it's to provide advice for environment and forest-harvesting management.” Chris Warrior, the owner of Wiru Drone Solutions, led a three-day drone training course, imparting essential skills for capturing both cultural heritage sites and aerial imagery for everyday use. His expertise enabled the team to document some of the most remarkable discoveries in recent years. With the right tools and knowledge, Aboriginal communities can continue to maintain and rejuvenate their regions according to cultural practices that have been passed down through generations. The integration of modern techniques, such as drones, with traditional knowledge of the land creates a powerful synergy that benefits both the community and the environment. The Dhudoroa Waywurru Aboriginal Corporation has been working with The Cultural Heritage Consultancy Group to facilitate their courses and incorporate their business strategies and affiliations where possible. The CHC Group, as they are known, is an independent, Aboriginal-led consultancy providing assistance to both Aboriginal corporations and business corporations with active Reconciliation Action Plans. The work being done by the Dhudoroa Waywurru Aboriginal Corporation is not only crucial for the immediate community but serves as a model for other Indigenous organizations seeking to empower their members. Through initiatives like the chainsaw and drone courses, Dhudoroa is demonstrating how combining education, skill development, and traditional knowledge can lead to self-determined land and water management that benefits both people and the planet.

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