Introduction to Cultural Heritage Management

History

Following on from the development of the Cultural Natural Resource Management Feasibility Study,  we have sought to develop an introductory pathway for people interested in the management of cultural heritage. Maximising on the specialists attached to Nulungu and in collaboration with Yawuru people in Broome, we have collaborated to develop the Introduction to Cultural Heritage Management course. Framed by culture, Country, language and both decolonising and Indigenous methodologies, this course will be of interest to people with life-long Aboriginal knowledges and cultural experience, in addition to those who work closely within decolonised and culturally secure frameworks, to undertake holistic caring for Country initiatives. The course may therefore be utilised by those entering the Cultural Heritage Management/CNRM field or alternatively, others such as Working on Country rangers who would like to further develop professional skills relating to cultural heritage management from a caring for country, cultural landscape perspective. It is likewise anticipated that students who undertake the Introduction to Aboriginal Research Methodology for Aboriginal People may also follow on with this short course.

The course is delivered as a unique program which involves staff from Nulungu and Yawuru knowledge holders. With an introduction to understanding and embracing culturally-led mechanisms to conduct cultural and natural resource management, key references provided through this collaborative approach are multimedia tools; On-Country planning frameworks, methods and management strategies; as well as the Yawuru Cultural Conservation Management Plan. Furthermore, an extensive reference list has been developed which complements Yawuru’s input and provides further information into areas such as World Heritage Listed places and the National Heritage List. In addition to those identified, other references have been considered in the development of this course, such as the work of Juli Coffin relating to cultural security and that of Kerry Arabena who has investigated topics such as ‘Healthy Parks, Healthy People’, Aboriginal Wellbeing and Engagement methods and modules.

2026 Course Dates

Stage One: 24 - 26 March

Course Delivery

The Introduction to Cultural Heritage Management course is available to anyone who is interested in working with Indigenous people and communities on collaborative cultural heritage management initiatives. We encourage participation of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. This course is particularly beneficial for those working in managing cultural heritage – whether as part of on Country ranger programs or within government or other institutions. Presently, the course is delivered on Broome Campus over three days.

Course Structure

The course is framed as an introduction to developing and implementing management strategies to look after cultural heritage – both the tangible (physical) fabric and the foundational intangible cultural values. Understanding the agency and authority Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have to care for cultural heritage informed by the respective surrounding biocultural landscapes and narratives is fundamental. How this is then interpreted and shared to community and the general public is also considered. Framed by Indigenous and decolonising methodologies, cultural ontologies, reconciliation, ethical practice, Indigenous data sovereignty, and legislated policies, learnings from the course can be utilised to inform practical application in real-world scenarios. This is delivered through workshops and lectures over three consecutive days. A second stage may be developed to commence 2027 onwards, with further details provided in the year ahead.

Course Fees

Please contact nulungu for fees nulungu@nd.edu.au or 08 9192 0670. For payment, enquiries contact the Nulungu Research Institute office on (08) 9192 0670.