Intergenerational Cultural Transfer of Indigenous Knowledge

Aboriginal cultural systems hold knowledge of national and international significance for Aboriginal wellbeing and addressing climate change, food insecurity, water scarcity and species loss. However, the continuity and integrity of these knowledges is of considerable concern to Aboriginal people, due to disruptions to Aboriginal lifeways. This Aboriginal environmental humanities research will investigate, describe and compare the transfer of knowledge in a Kimberley and a southwest region of Western Australia to understand how cultural values, knowledge and practices can persist despite on-going colonial interruptions. Outcomes will contribute to Aboriginal wellbeing, enhance biodiversity and advance water communication.

The Intergenerational Cultural Transfer of Indigenous Knowledge research project comprises two Western Australia case studies; one in the West Kimberley, and one in the Great Western Woodlands in the southwest ecoregion.

“Indigenous Knowledges”. Artwork ©2023 Dr Barbara Bynder

The “Indigenous Knowledges” artwork is a representation of the two case studies and illustrates the landmarks or focus points for the transfer of Indigenous Knowledges in the Kimberley and in the Great Western Woodlands. The artwork represents the bushland of the Great Western Woodlands and sits alongside the Martuwarra in the Kimberley. The blue colour is the source of water knowledge that the Martuwarra and the Great Western Woodlands have to offer humanity.

Acknowledgement of Country

The Nulungu Research Institute is located on Yawuru land, encompassing the coastal town of Broome. Western Australian Aboriginal saltwater, river and desert language groups across the Kimberley and Aboriginal language groups of the Great Western Woodlands sustain intergenerational cultural, intellectual and social affiliations over time.

Researchers and associates of the project: Intergenerational Cultural Transfer of Indigenous Knowledges pay respect to all cultural custodians of the Aboriginal nations in which this project is situated - to past, present and emerging generations. Traditional knowledge and expertise, evident throughout the Kimberley and Great Western Woodlands – is vital to the sustainability of places, cultures and futures.