Corangamite CMA commits to meaningful reconciliation

CORANGAMITE Catchment Management Authority (CMA) will develop its first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), aligning with this year’s National Reconciliation Week.

Running from May 27 to June 3, the week is a time for Australians to learn about shared histories, cultures and achievements with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“Reconciliation Week reminds us how important it is for us to walk with Traditional Owners in all our work on Country across the catchment, bridging now to next,” Corangamite CMA reconciliation working group co-chair Kristen Lees said.

The Corangamite CMA is developing its own Reconciliation Action Plan, following Reconciliation Australia’s RAP Framework and building upon the organisation’s previous Cultural Strengthening Action Plan.

Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation and Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation will both be involved in the development and implementation of the plan.

Corangamite CMA chief executive officer Dr Amber Clarke said they greatly value the partnerships they have with both Wadawurrung and Eastern Maar Traditional Owners, working to improve the health of the lands, water and seas in the region.

“Through the development of our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan we will strengthen the existing partnerships we have with Traditional Owners and First Nations people.

“We will support cultural ways of caring for country and increased leadership and decision-making by Traditional Owners in the management of land, water and biodiversity.”

Throughout Reconciliation Week, staff were also encouraged to attend National Reconciliation Week events across the region.

Corangamite CMA also supported and co-hosted events across the region, including sponsoring Reconciliation in the Park in Geelong and speaking at the Cultural Precinct Walking Tour.