Carnarvon Bushwalking on Country project receives $35,000 State Government grant

The Shire of Carnarvon received a $35,000 grant last week from the State Government for its Bushwalking on Country project.

The Shire project aims to empower community members, particularly Aboriginal and disengaged youth, to participate in the program and become hiking and bushwalking leaders. The program will also equip participants with the knowledge and relevant qualifications to deliver the cultural tour.

Twenty-two recreation projects throughout the State will get a share of $427,000 in funding as part of the program. The project will give locals the opportunity to learn new skills and receive training to become accredited tour guides.

The goal of the program is to train up to five accredited hiking and walking guides to deliver cultural tours focusing on storytelling and promoting Aboriginal heritage. The project will also aim to provide pathways to employment for the local participants and create a sense of ownership as well as community pride.

Shire president Eddie Smith said the project will not only bring ongoing economic benefits but also improve community health and wellbeing.

“Carnarvon has a long and vibrant history of Aboriginal culture and this project will give us an opportunity to bring our Aboriginal stories to life through an immersive bushwalking tour,” Cr Smith said.

“It will also enable our community and youth to participate in active recreation activity, learn new skills, share local history, and reinforce a proud culture.

“It is ultimately about bringing together improved health and wellbeing, outdoor learning, personal development, connection to country and economic development within Carnarvon.”

The Bushwalking on Country project is set to start this month over a 12-month period. Ongoing consultation will take place with the Aboriginal elders and Yinggarda Board, as the traditional custodians of the land, throughout the project implementation.