A new publication launched by the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation (DJAARA) is tackling climate change head-on.

The book titled Turning ‘wrong way’ climate, ‘right way’ outlines a strategy that emphasises the importance of Djaara’s leadership in mitigating climate change and adapting to the impacts of a changing climate.

Dja Dja Wurrung Group CEO Rodney Carter highlighted how Djaara’s approach to healing and mitigating further climate is unique.

“Dja Dja Wurrung leadership is needed to effectively address the issue of climate change in central Victoria,” Mr Carter said. “As Traditional Owners, Dja Dja Wurrung People have been listening to and caring for Country for millennia. We are highly attuned to the health of Country and of climate. Our biocultural knowledge makes us best placed to know what is most likely to be successful in terms of reducing and adapting to climate change.”

The strategy includes a plan to introduce cultural burning practices with a specific focus on restoring unhealthy sections of the landscape. This, in turn, increases carbon sequestration.

Another strategy is the use of ‘forest gardening’, which outlines a sustainable and plant-based food production system.

A water strategy emphasises the benefits of Indigenous knowledge in flood recovery.

‘Where state, council and (Catchment Management Authority) is looking to build flood mitigation infrastructure, Djaara biocultural knowledge should inform nature-based alternatives,’ the plan reads.

These encompass wetland chains of ponds and permanent pools which ‘provide wildlife refuge, amenity and urban cooling’.

The strategy has been developed in collaboration with a diverse group of Dja Dja Wurrung People. It follows DJAARA’s Renewable Energy and Forest Gardening strategies, both released in 2022.

“DJAARA is eager to engage with those who live on or share responsibility for Country and walk together as we face the challenge of climate change,” Mr Carter said.

Anyone interested in purchasing a copy or learning more about the Djaara climate change plan is urged to get in touch with the organisation directly. 

This article appeared in the Tarrangower Times, 16 June 2023.