On the Great Barrier Reef, management by Traditional Owners is growing

Off the eastern Australian coast, the Great Barrier Reef is a vibrant underwater ecosystem, teeming with colorful corals. Mercy Singleton, a Yirrganydji woman and director at the Dawul Wuru Aboriginal Corporation, describes the reef as a beautiful "underwater garden" that she hopes to see safe and recovering. Singleton's community, like 17 others, is involved in stewarding the Great Barrier Reef, thanks to their Sea Country and their Sea Country Management agreements.

These community-based plans for joint management of the Reef are part of a comprehensive conservation strategy that aims to involve Indigenous communities in the management of their traditional waters. While there are still gaps in full inclusion, significant progress is being made, according to Indigenous governance organizations and scientists. A recent decision by the World Heritage Committee has acknowledged these efforts.

Allan Dale, a professor of tropical regional development at James Cook University, notes that the last 30 years have witnessed substantial changes in the management of the Great Barrier Reef, particularly for Traditional Owners. Dale highlights the growth in the capability of these groups to govern and achieve their goals, including the establishment of land and sea reservations.

Dr. Mercy Singleton, the director of Research and Engagement Services at Dawul Wuru Aboriginal Corporation, underscores the increasing number of rangers, leaders, and planners working towards this goal.