This research outlines findings from the first three years of the Bugang Bila, which aims to put Wiradjuri/Wolgalu at the centre of land management on their traditional Country by collaborating with government and non-government NRM agencies. It identifies key factors that can lead to improved collaboration and outcomes for Traditional land managers and healthy Country.
Achieving ‘healthy Country, healthy people’ is a widely-held objective, including among NRM practitioners and partners. This report identifies that an alignment of values and establishment of trusting relationships are needed for this goal to be achieved. It oulines appropriate procedsses, policing, procedures and resourcing needed to invest in two-way learning and that strategically support Traditional Owners to build cultural confidence, support women’s participation, and invest in individuals through long-term funding security and a greater number of identified positions within NRM agencies. It provides a case study showing positive change, including the key role of funding of and support for Cultural NRM Officers within the community, who established and maintained the necessary relationships between community and the different NRM agencies who currently manage much of their traditional lands.
