Land and sea managers of the world unite

Land and sea managers from all over the world will gather in Darwin at the end of May for the first World Indigenous Network Conference.

The Network was launched in June 2012 as an international knowledge sharing network for Indigenous land and sea managers.

The conference, which will be hosted by the Australian Government, the Larrakia Nation and partner countries, will be an opportunity for land and sea managers to connect, share stories and discuss how the Network should be developed in the future.

Wulgurukaba woman Melissa George is co-chair of the World Indigenous Network National Advisory Group and will be one of the Masters of Ceremonies at the conference.

She said all land and sea managers share a similar passion, regardless of where they come from.

“We share common ground in biodiversity conservation, heritage protection and cultural maintenance,” Melissa said.

“The way we achieve our goals is similar—at the heart of every decision we make is the future wellbeing of family, community and country.”

The three day conference program includes ceremonies, plenaries, workshops and dedicated women’s and youth programs. The Conference Network Hub will provide delegates with a community space to network and an art space to showcase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and crafts.

Financial assistance is available to eligible land and sea managers, rangers, mentors and community elders, to help cover the cost of transport, registration, accommodation and living expenses during the conference.

Please read the eligibility criteria for financial assistance. Applications for financial assistance close 15 March 2013.