First Nations group launches climate strategy

A LOCAL First Nations group has launched its climate change strategy document.

Championed by Djaara, the strategy was revealed at an event last week by the organisation’s CEO Rodney Carter.

“Our strategy will propose a new way of looking at ourselves, our country, our planet like never before since my ancestors were disrespected a couple of hundred years ago,” he said.

The core of the strategy is related to the connection of Dja Dja Wurrung people with the land, or djandak, said Mr Carter.

“We need to be there to make country well again and help make our climate well,” he said.

“Caring for country and making country well, as we have seen from the last 10 years of our recognition settlement agreement, makes people well, makes my people well.

“We need to continue that and ensure that we do more.”

Djaara general manager Cassandra Lewis said she encourages other groups to consider how they might align with the First Nation group’s strategies.

“These documents cannot be implemented without us, it’s the unwritten instruction, which is our sense of being and knowing, our ability to listen and to interpret Country in a way that is not easily taught to others but that runs through our blood,” she said.

CEO of the Central Victorian Greenhouse Alliance, Annika Kearton, supported Djaara’s call for involvement.

“Djaara and traditional owner groups across the region are really leading the way on climate action, identifying opportunities and priorities for collaboration to reduce climate change and to adapt to its impacts,” she said.

“Here in Bendigo, the council and communities are working towards zero emissions by 2030 through the Greater Bendigo Climate Collaboration, and I know Djaara is a really critical partner to that collaboration.”