“Trees, koalas, they are beings like us. That is how I grew up from the Earth. I want to see that connection with everybody now. I don’t care if they are black, brown or brindle. It is about connection and respect. That is the important thing. That is the main thing I want to share”. Uncle Bud Marshall

 

The Never Never Catchment Group recently hosted a small gathering of Traditional Custodians and non Indigenous Gleniffer community members to celebrate and share #Gumbaynggirr cultural knowledge of #caringforcountry especially as it relates to Dunggirr, #koalas.

The event was held in Keough Reserve and the Gleniffer Hall grounds. The day was led by Uncle Bud Marshall with facilitation help from Sarah Wright and Lara Daley of Yandaarra. Also leading the yarns were Uncle Cecil Briggs and Cathy from Dorrigo LALC, Dean , Phillip and Brenton from Yurruungga Aboriginal Corporation and Darren from Coffs Harbour & District LALC.

Hannah Smith, Elaine Carmady, and BJ Carmady led cultural weaving and woodwork activities. Native riparian species planting also took place beside the Never Never Creek.

This community event formed part of Jaliigirr’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water funded ARKS project being delivered by Never Never Catchment Group.

It was a fascinating, informative, enjoyable and very rewarding day. In particular, it was wonderful to hear Uncle Bud and Uncle Cecil yarning away, and the cultural weaving and woodwork activities were great fun.