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Leading the way in reconciliation with launch of new reflect RAP

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Richmond Landcare, Dunoon and District Gazette

Richmond Landcare has set an inspiring precedent for reconciliation by being the first Landcare group in NSW to have its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) endorsed by Reconciliation Australia.

The Reflect RAP outlines the group’s dedication to increasing cultural awareness and knowledge, promoting engagement strategies, and building collaborative partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Michael Kennedy, Aboriginal Landcare officer at the North Coast Regional Landcare Network, emphasises the crucial role of incorporating First Nations knowledge into Landcare projects and activities.

The NSW North Coast is the pilot region for an Aboriginal Landcare officer position under the NSW Landcare Aboriginal Engagement Program, known as ‘Working Together’.

Working closely with Michael, Richmond Landcare has committed to engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to ensure that Landcare volunteers and staff learn from Traditional Owners and work collaboratively towards achieving common goals.

Richmond Landcare’s secretary and RAP champion Hedy Bryant said: “Our goal is to establish strong partnerships with the Traditional Owners of the Country on which we work and incorporate their knowledge of Country, including plant names, their uses and Aboriginal land management practices into our projects.”

Staff at Richmond Landcare will consult with the appropriate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and stakeholders to establish the correct cultural protocols and practices before projects get underway.

This approach ensures that Traditional Owners are consulted and listened to before any project commences.

Aboriginal engagement manager at Landcare NSW, Craig Little, said: “It’s exciting to see Richmond Landcare initiating actions towards reconciliation by including the Traditional Owners of Country in an advisory role for their projects.”

Richmond Landcare’s Reflect RAP is a testament to the group’s commitment to building meaningful relationships with First Nations people and promoting reconciliation.

By creating a RAP, Richmond Landcare not only demonstrates its commitment to cultural respect, appreciation, and awareness for Traditional Land Custodians, but also takes a meaningful step towards aligning the organisation’s values with those of Traditional Cultures.

The initiative helps to promote greater understanding and recognition of the rich history and knowledge of First Nations peoples, and fosters stronger collaboration with these communities.

The group hopes that their efforts will inspire other Landcare groups to take similar steps. 

Dunoon and District Gazette April-May 2023

This article appeared in the Dunoon and District Gazette, April – May 2023.

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