From threat,
opportunity Although the threats are immense and the scale of the problems enormous, the actual solutions present us with very real opportunities. Opportunities that have eluded the people of Cape York for decades.
The keys are excellent science, Indigenous empowerment and quality investment. We will need excellent and rigorous science to deal with the threats to Cape York. Science that helps us to fully understand each problem. Science that provides us with the right approaches. However, the remoteness and rugged landscapes of Cape York make the logistics of on-ground science operations extremely difficult. The very important need to engage with Traditional Owners adds a level of complexity. That’s where the Indigenous people of Cape York come in.
The intimate knowledge of the country is the vital ingredient in any
endeavour on the Cape. Without that, plans can quickly come unstuck, as many have found out the hard way. And, of course, the cultural authority of Traditional Owners ensures that people working on Cape York can navigate the oftencomplex cultural sensitivities, language barriers, and access to country requirements. All we need is a hand up. The explosion of conservation and science activity on Cape York, especially around the urgent need to protect the Great Barrier Reef, is a very real opportunity for the Indigenous people. Indigenous control of 90% of the coastline and 50% of the landmass positions Traditional Owners to take advantage of the growing activity. Doing so will enable us to continue to address the social problems caused by passive welfare impacting their communities. We want to build a comprehensive environmental support services industry through expertise, infrastructure, and an ‘on demand’ workforce.
connecting the dots... Cape York Conservation is about bringing together excellent science, Indigenous empowerment and quality investment to protect Cape York and create jobs for Indigenous people. Doing so will deliver a range of vital benefits that underpin successful scientific research, and land and sea management on Cape York. COST-EFFECTIVE SCIENCE Making Cape York more accessible for researchers through removal of logistical barriers and improved local facilities and support services. MONITORING AND RESPONSE Wider capability enabling early detection of changes and trends through a readily mobilised network for response actions. ENVIRONMENTAL OUTCOMES Better reef and catchment management through iconic species, habitat and ecosystem protection and management. TRADITIONAL OWNER LEADERSHIP Ensuring Traditional Owners are in the drivers seat of conservation design and priorities. This improved relationship and communication between key stakeholders encourages community engaement.
302-310 Sheridan Street, Cairns QLD 4870 P (07) 4042 7200 | F (07) 4042 7291 E info@cyp.org.au capeyorkpartnership.org.au
An initiative of Cape York Partnership