The Abriculture Team is a gathering of intellectual minds with a shared vision and an understanding of the important role Tribal Ecologists play in modern ecology, sustainability and global food security. The Abriculture Team’s unique skillsets bring together tribal ecological knowledge (TEK) and western science in a culturally sensitive way.

“RootBound signals a new path forward in the FNQ festival culture. We’re working alongside local council, community, arts, and landcare organisations, creating strategic partnerships focused on strengthening community growth and social cohesion.  We’re addressing environmental issues and taking real on-ground action in the fight against climate change, placing education at the forefront of the event and celebrating innovative ways of approaching the world we live in. “

Andy joined us in February of 2020 and discussed the AWC’s response to the bush fire crisis and the projects they were assisting with across the country, covering fieldwork and project information from NE NSW and Kangaroo Island.

Aïsha discussed the progress of the Community Organising and Leadership Program she was building.

The Community Organising and Leadership Program will establish a group of committed core trainers in Far North Queensland who work alongside our Community Organiser to develop and deliver ongoing advocacy and organising training in our community.

Since retirement Barry has directed his interest towards the role of fungi in the environment and in environmental education. Only recently has it been recognised that fungi are the cornerstone of all life on our planet – fruits, vegetables, livestock, building materials, clothing, and much of our oxygen and clean water depend on them. They do this through symbiosis with plants and by recycling nutrients. This talk illustrates the groups of larger fungi you might encounter, and briefly discusses their role in the environment.

Tony joined us in October and spoke to us about growing up in the Mulgrave Valley, innovative change on his family’s cane farm with compost production, mixed species fallows for soil health (soybeans, sunflowers, sun hemp and cowpea), and activities of the Mulgrave Landcare and Catchment Group (wetlands and revegetation).

Since their establishment in 2006, Jaragun Ecoservices has pursued their vision to have a positive impact on Aboriginal unemployment and disadvantage. In providing opportunities to work on country, their vision expanded to encompass sustainable management of natural resources.

Dennis and Liz joined us in Novemeber and spoke to us about the Jaragun Ecoservices Catchment Plan, their systems-based approach to planning, and collaboration.