As a key engagement activity this month, the CLLMM Research Centre hosted the MDBA executive team on 9 September as a part of their Community Tour. They’ve been visiting regional areas to connect with local communities, hear their stories, and discuss the impact of river management on their lives. These tours involve oral histories, discussions on water security and infrastructure, and opportunities to understand community concerns and perspectives on achieving a healthy, sustainable Basin. They met with the regional LGA councils including the CLLMM Research Centre team in the morning.
The MDBA team then spent an afternoon on Country with about 20 members of the local Ngarrindjeri community, including the new Indigenous Rangers, NAC staff, and research scientist Scotte Wedderburn (lead of our freshwater mussel project), as well as CLLMM Engagement Coordinator Sue Ellison and others. It was an opportunity for listening, learning, and sharing. The cultural and spiritual connections shared by the Ngarrindjeri and Ramindjeri people highlighted the depth of knowledge and stewardship and continuing commitment to healing Country together. Later in the afternoon they headed back to the CLLMM RC to meet with one of our local partner organisations, River Lakes and Coorong Action Group.