By Natural Resources South East
(Government)
Supporting people to contribute to environmental sustainability and experience the benefits of connecting to Country.
Project implemented: 28 January 2017
Project goal
Connect people through walking and volunteering, promote Aboriginal Culture and improve mental health of participants.
Delivering on
Volunteering Strategy for SA focus area: 2
UN Sustainable Development Goal: 3, 15
Why this project is important
Supports volunteers to be involved with local projects, cultural and environmental education and improved their mental health.
Key steps to make it happen
Walking the South East Seasons with Nature in Mind was launched in March 2018 following on from the success of the first program in partnership with Headspace Mount Gambier in 2017.
The program is framed by the South East Aboriginal Focus Groups Weaving the South East Seasons Calendar and endorsed by the South East Aboriginal Focus Group.
The program takes people out in the environment once a month. This gives them an opportunity to contribute to environmental sustainability, experience short walks and the benefits of nature, and get their hands dirty volunteering. Participants link with existing Friends of Parks volunteer groups, and different environmental projects.
Having the calendar as the framework adds a depth of appreciation about the region, First Nations culture and connection.
Impact to date
- Program is helping to increase the mental health and wellbeing of participants, promotes environmental sustainability and leadership, and helps share local Aboriginal knowledge of Country
Collaborating organisations
- Natural Resources South East
- South East Junction Mental Health Activity and Resource Centre Inc
- Friends of Parks South Australia Inc
- Headspace Mount Gambier
- Burrandies Aboriginal Corporation
- Pangula Mannamurna Aboriginal Corporation
About Natural Resources South East
Natural Resources South East is responsible for delivering a range of programs and projects on behalf of the South East Natural Resources Management (NRM) Board and the Department for Environment and Water. Working together with our partners, volunteers and the broader South East community, our business includes public lands responsibilities, encouraging sustainable production practices, and conserving and managing the region’s environment.
Contact
David New, Aboriginal Engagement Officer, Natural Resources South East
t: 0419 868 415 e: david.new@sa.gov.au
