Indigenous leadership, cultural knowledge and caring for Country were at the heart of NAILSMA’s Reimagining Conservation 2026 forum, which brought together 270 delegates from across Australia and overseas in Cairns from 21–24 September.
Held on Gimuy Walubara Yidinji Country, the forum brought together Traditional Owners, Indigenous leaders, land and sea managers, researchers, conservation practitioners and government representatives to share knowledge and explore new approaches to conservation.
The TNQ Drought Hub was represented by Senior Research Officer Dr Ana Leite de Almeida and Program Communications Advisor Emily Harrington, who attended with a particular interest in exploring natural capital through a cultural lens and understanding how communications can support conservation.
The program began with a dedicated day for Indigenous delegates to discuss how conservation can better reflect Indigenous knowledge systems, cultural authority and governance. An Indigenous-led panel brought Country to the centre of discussions, sharing lived experiences and the cultural practices that sustain Country, culture and communities.
On-Country field trips gave delegates the opportunity to learn directly from Traditional Owners, connect with culture and see Indigenous-led conservation in practice.
Discussions throughout the forum explored the importance of genuine partnerships, Indigenous rights and decision-making, and bringing Traditional Knowledge and Western science together. Speakers also highlighted how Indigenous-led initiatives, including savanna fire management and emerging environmental markets, can create opportunities for communities while supporting the ongoing care of Country.
These conversations are particularly relevant to northern Queensland, where strong partnerships, locally informed approaches and recognition of Indigenous knowledge are important to building environmental, social and economic resilience.
The forum reinforced the value of bringing diverse perspectives together to share experiences, strengthen relationships and explore practical ways to support Indigenous leadership and a resilient future for Country.
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