March 14 2023: Cultural Connection to Country by Peter Cooley

CULTURAL CONNECTION TO COUNTRY THROUGH NATIVE PLANTS & SHARING CULTURAL KNOWLEDGE AND TRADITIONAL USES Presented by:  Peter Cooley CEO First Hand Solutions Aboriginal Corporation

IndigiGrow native plant initiative was created in 2018 and is based at La Perouse Public School. It sustains people, land, and culture through the propagation & growing of native plants, including bush foods and the critically endangered Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub (ESBS).

IndigiGrow is underpinned by Culture, Connection to Country & Caring for Country while utilising native plants with objectives to pass down traditional knowledge and stories from elders to our youth, instilling a strong cultural foundation and connection to country.

Peter Cooley will speak to us about the philosophy of IndigiGrow and will speak about the cultural connection to country through plants, specifically native plants endemic to eastern Australia.  He will share cultural knowledge around the traditional uses of these plants including medicinal uses, tools etc.

“IndigiGrow ensures that the cultural knowledge of our people is understood, respected & protected.……..We seek to deliver positive cultural & environmental projects by growing & reviving local endangered native plants and native edibles. Through the passing down of traditional knowledge to our young Indigenous staff and providing opportunities for the wider community.  IndigiGrow ensures that the cultural knowledge of our people is understood, respected & protected.

We retain culture & increase biodiversity and fauna habitats by replenishing many native species that are important to our culture and the local ecosystem. We educate people about our plants and break down cultural barriers through a better understanding and appreciation of our native plants & bushfoods.”

Oatley Community Hall, 61 Oatley Avenue, Oatley

7pm   Tuesday 14 March 2023

Cost: $5 for non-members, free for members

Casual attendance welcome!