Education access for Cultural burn and awareness has many restrictions, particularly the available location to undertake a Cultural burn.
There is a lack of educational resources and opportunities for youth to learn about Cultural burning and First Nations ecological practices. Whilst some curriculum resources touch on these topics in the classroom, there is a need for increased support and recognition of Indigenous fire knowledge and practices, including empowering Indigenous youth with practical Cultural learning.
However, barriers such as inadequate decision-making, regulatory frameworks, disconnection from Country, and fragmented partnerships hinder the transmission of this knowledge to younger generations. Dedicated educational programs and resources are crucial for preserving and revitalising these important Cultural and ecological practices among youth.
To address the lack of educational access for Cultural burning and First Nations ecological practices, Murrumbidgee Landcare built on its partnerships with The Wiradjuri Cultural Burns Team, Rural Fire Service, local schools and Snowy Valleys Council. The partnerships prioritise Indigenous leadership, to facilitate intergenerational knowledge transfer, and systemic changes, to ensure the preservation and revitalization of these vital cultural and ecological practices.
Case Study 1-8 Passing on the Flame of Cultural Knowledge through Intergenerational Educationy