First Nations voices led vital discussions on stewardship of Sea Country, cultural identity and connection to Country at the inaugural Australian Sea Country Conference. 

By Dempsey Ward

The conference brought together 275 delegates from across Australia and international participants from New Zealand and Canada were brought together in the first conference of its kind designed to ignite innovation and rethink current practices in sea country management and governance.

Lively discussions were generated in a range of breakout sessions, interactive panels and side meetings led by a diverse range of leaders.

FRDC was a platinum sponsor of this major event and worked in partnership with several state agencies (FRDC Project 2024-013) to sponsor over 20 First Nations delegates to attend the conference. Their attendance provided further opportunities for diverse dialogue and perspectives. The enthusiasm and good will throughout the conference reflected a shared commitment to shaping a positive future Indigenous fishing and aquaculture initiatives in the future. 

Connection to Sea Country  

First Nations communities worldwide recognise that the connection to country is not just a backdrop for human activity but also an integral element to cultural identity and community health.  

FRDC Research Portfolio Manager Adrianne Laird, was inspired by the positive sentiments of speakers throughout the conference, she noted, “The phrase ‘I am the sea, the sea is me’ encapsulates this profound connection, highlighting that the connection to country is not merely about preservation but is intertwined with identity and existence.”  

Recognising diverse perspectives 

Throughout the conference, speakers emphasised the need for diverse perspectives, particularly from First Nations women, whose contributions are invaluable yet often overlooked. As one attendee noted, “Everyone said two ways, but it’s actually always just your way.” This highlights a critical need for genuine engagement and respect for First Nations viewpoints.  

Additionally, there was a strong desire to reframe language used in discussions surrounding First Nations engagement. Terms like “partners,” and “stakeholders,” may not adequately convey the depth of connection First Nations peoples have with Country., nor their cultural aspirations for having a recognised stake or custodianship of these resources.

As many delegates noted, language matters; it can either empower or diminish the significance of these relationships. 

Building Capacity and Co-design 

A key takeaway from conference discussions was the emphasis on building capacity rather than merely increasing participation. This was evident through the support for the ranger programs that play a crucial role in conservation and environmental monitoring.  

First Nations Communities are not just affected by environmental degradation; they often become most impacted despite their relatively low ecological footprints. This underscores the importance of recognising their expertise and incorporating First Nations knowledge in co-designing solutions for environmental challenges. 

A Call for Ongoing Dialogue 

The collective sentiment from the conference is clear: the conversation must continue. 

Participants expressed a desire for more focused discussions, particularly in smaller breakout sessions where nuanced topics could be explored in depth. 

Delegates who undertook the pre-conference field trips had the unique opportunity to experience Indigenous fishing practices first-hand. This included seeing how simple, safe and effective fish nets play a vital role in providing fish to the local community as well as a hands-on demonstration of Dookie’s innovative fish trap.  

This remarkable device, designed to leverage natural fish behaviour and tidal movements, can secure up to one tonne of fish per week! 

Managing Director of FRDC, Patrick Hone, notes that the lessons learned from both local and international First Nations delegates, offer part of a roadmap for the future.  

“By fostering an environment of respect, collaboration, and genuine engagement, Australia can work towards empowering First Nations communities to thrive economically while upholding their cultural responsibilities to the land and sea.”  

“As we move forward, it’s essential to listen, learn, and act in ways that honour the profound connections that First Nations peoples have with their environments.” 

The conference, led by the Aboriginal Sea Company, was a resounding success, thanks to the invaluable support from conference sponsors: 

• Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation 

• Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water 

• National Indigenous Australians Agency 

• Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies 

• The North Australian Indigenous Land and Sea Management Alliance 

• Northern Territory Goverment 

Their generous contributions were instrumental in ensuring a truly national focus and facilitating attendance from across Australia and beyond. To inform the next announced conference, a survey has been distributed to delegates to gather feedback.

Related FRDC Project 

2024-013: Australian Sea Country Conference