So often we look at nature through the lens of an individual species, an ecological community or a specific land management challenge such as weed control. In doing so, we may miss the opportunity to see the bigger picture that may cloud our view on what the land needs.
Cultural calendars present an engaging way for communities – from all ages – to embrace holistic approaches to land management using traditional lessons and practices. Set in a contemporary context, these calendars provide a meaningful way in which communities can read and interpret the natural environment, helping them to make better decisions on what the land needs.
“…a cultural calendar provides insight into the cultural significant events, plants and animals that signal seasonal change in the landscape. It is not a static thing like a normal calendar, it is a process of participating in country. The proposed seasons are based on best research taking into account the weather, the flowering times of plants, the breeding of animals, and the stories of the land from people both past and present. The land has changed so much since [European settlement], almost beyond recognition. Climate change is also affecting seasonality.
We encourage you to let the calendar become a guide to further observation, to keep asking questions and develop a deep knowledge of country and seasons.”
Ngunya Jargoon Indigenous Protected Area Cultural Calendar for the Nyangbul People of the Bundjalung Nation, Ballina and Cabbage Tree Is.
To learn more about these wonderful resources that have been developed in Northern NSW as part of the NCC Firesticks Project please visit:
- Ngunya Jargoon Indigenous Protected Area Cultural Calendar: http://www.firesticks.org.au/ngunya-jargoon-ipa-cultural-calendar/ and http://jalilands.com.au/
- Winba = Fire, the Wattleridge Fire and Seasons Calendar, Wattleridge Indigenous Protected Area: http://www.firesticks.org.au/winba-fire-the-wattleridge-ipa-fire-and-seasons-calendar/