A WA Government initiative bringing together Traditional Owners to support a culturally grounded approach to caring for one of the State’s waterways and Country has won a national award.
The Bindjareb Djilba Kaadadjan Bidi Yarning Circle this month received the 2026 Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) Summit Award for Excellence in Sustainability and Sustainable Futures.
The yarning circle brings together Bindjareb Noongar Elders and emerging leaders to shape the care of the waterways and Country of the Bindjareb Djilba (Peel-Harvey estuary).
“This award highlights the power of culture, truth-telling, and caring for Country,” said yarning circle co-ordinator, Kallan Nannup.
“We hope it inspires others to listen to Aboriginal voices and work with Traditional Custodians, recognising our knowledge and connection to Country as vital to a strong future.”
Working in partnership with local Aboriginal corporations, Winjan, Waroona, and Harvey, the group supports delivery of Bindjareb-led actions under the Cook Labor Government’s 2020 Bindjareb Djilba Protection Plan. It plays a key role in embedding Traditional Owner knowledge and leadership into estuary management.
“I congratulate the Bindjareb Djilba Kaadadjan Bidi Yarning Circle on this well-deserved award, recognising the strength of cultural governance and Aboriginal leadership in caring for Country,” said Aboriginal Affairs Minister, Don Punch.
“Embedding Traditional Owner knowledge is helping protect our waterways and deliver lasting social, cultural, and environmental outcomes for Western Australia.”
Peel Minister, Jessica Stojkovski said the award highlights the real impact of local leadership, with Bindjareb communities driving practical actions to protect and restore the Peel-Harvey estuary.
“It’s fantastic to see regional partnerships delivering on-the-ground results, strengthening waterways while supporting communities and cultural knowledge across the Peel region,” she said.
“As a Bindjareb cultural knowledge holder and leader, I am incredibly proud of the sustained efforts across our region over many years, particularly the commitment of our young people, who represent the next generation and our pathway to a sustainable future,” said Bindjareb Elder, George Walley.
“Receiving this award is a powerful recognition of that collective work at a community level and, in many ways, everyone involved is a winner.”
