Transformation of research paradigms: duties and obligations supporting community aspirations that empower Aboriginal river communities

This paper supports a dialogue by Aboriginal river communities in the Upper Murray Darling Basin, regarding their expectations and challenges which are translated from daily experience. Hopes and aspirations are tied to positive outcomes for community futures. The paper discusses the visual representations of community workshops, as community members discern the value of cultural knowledge, social history and family narratives. These workshops share a dialogue to support health and well-being, community values and safe families. The research also comes from a place where the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People is evoked to support a different kind of community art workshop (including curriculum in community contexts) that supports transformation through innovation and creativity. Outcomes include positive identity, self-efficacy and a confidence in the future.