This first-of-its-kind research project will ensure Cultural Ecological Knowledges are included in conservation planning, writes Dr Jodi Edwards
In the deep, wide expanse of the southern seas, there are whispers – whispers that travel through the ocean like a secret passed from one generation to the next. These are the “Unbroken Whispers”, the sacred connections between the Aboriginal peoples of south-eastern Australia and the marine giants they’ve revered for millennia.
Humpback whales, orcas, dolphins and sharks are more than creatures of the sea to Aboriginal communities – they are kin, wise law holders, and messengers of the ocean, with stories woven into the fabric of the land, sky, and sea.
“Unbroken Whispers: The Ripples Connecting Sea-Kin” is an Aboriginal-led research initiative that uses Cultural Ecological Knowledge – including oral traditions such as stories, songs, dances, and geographic formations – to map Culturally Important Areas.
While significant scientific research has been done on the biodiversity and ecology of regions, there is a critical gap in understanding how Cultural Ecological Knowledge can be integrated into conservation planning.
Indigenous communities possess a profound understanding of marine ecosystems, species migrations, and seasonal cycles, yet this knowledge is often excluded from formal conservation efforts.
The omission of Indigenous perspectives in marine management hinders the development of sustainable, culturally appropriate conservation solutions, especially as the ocean is battling climate change, habitat degradation, and overfishing.
Our research proposes a collaborative, interdisciplinary strategy that merges scientific data with Cultural Ecological Knowledge to address these gaps.
It is vital to map Culturally Important Areas and incorporate Cultural Ecological Knowledge into ecological assessments. A key tool in this process is Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, which allows for the spatial capture of traditional ecological knowledge. This technology enables the mapping and integration of Indigenous insights on migratory species, critical habitats, and seasonal patterns into formal conservation frameworks.
Dr Chels Marshall and I are researchers committed to connecting Aboriginal knowledge and marine conservation, and we are mapping these relationships in a ground-breaking way.
Working alongside Aboriginal communities, we are creating a new kind of map – one that integrates Culturally Important Areas with Biologically Important Areas, offering a holistic view of marine life that honours both science and culture.
These maps are not only for viewing but for listening to. The “Unbroken Whispers” of the ocean – the knowledge passed down through generations – are paired with scientific understanding of how sea creatures live and thrive.
This is not just an academic exercise; it’s an ecological revolution.
In an age where climate change, overfishing, and habitat destruction threaten marine megafauna, this collaborative approach is essential. Aboriginal knowledge, rooted in sustainable practices, provides practical guides for managing our natural world.
Aboriginal communities have long understood the rhythms of the ocean, the seasonal migrations of whales, and the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. This knowledge is both metaphysical and deeply practical in caring for the land, sky, and sea.
Modern science is increasingly recognising the importance of integrating Cultural Ecological Knowledge into marine conservation. The ancient wisdom of Aboriginal peoples can guide our understanding of how to protect Sea-Kin and Sea Country, but only if we listen.
Working with Cultural Ecological Knowledge, Aboriginal communities and scientific research is the way to create conservation strategies that are both scientifically sound and culturally informed.