Learning about the Traditional Custodians of the Land

Step 1.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders walked and cared for the land for many thousands of years. Contact your local Indigenous organisations, the language map or do an internet search to find your local Traditional Owners.

Prepare a presentation on their:

• Language Group

• Dreaming Stories

• Lifestyle pre and post colonisation

• Neighbouring groups

• The ways Aboriginal people of the local/selected community expressed their connection to Country at time of colonisation.

 It is important to understand the cultural practices and considerations of each Language group when learning about them.

In some groups it may not be culturally appropriate to share certain dreaming stories or talk about certain people. This is why it is important to work with your local group when completing this task.

Step 2.

Pick an area of Australia in a different State and find the same information as you have on your local group

Step 3.

Compare the similarities and differences between the two groups.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Students comprehend and appreciate the diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities across Australia

2. Students gain an understanding of the impact of colonisation on the lifestyle and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

3. Open Dialogue with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups

4. Understand cultural systems and protocols.