Right-way research on Kimberley Saltwater Country

In 2014, a small group of Kimberley people from the Wunambal Gaambera, Balanggarra, Dambimangari, Bardi Jawi, Nyul Nyul, Yawuru and Karajarri peoples sat down with staff of the Western Australian Marine Science Institute to develop the Kimberley Indigenous Saltwater Science Project (KISSP).

Over the next three years the group worked towards the improved integration of Indigenous knowledge into marine conservation management in the Kimberley. They focused on three interrelated objectives around monitoring, research processes and Indigenous Knowledge in saltwater Country management.

As a result, three product packages have been developed each of which provide tangible benefits to Indigenous communities, corporations, organisations and rangers; as well as research institutes, government agencies and other key stakeholders.
The benefits of KISSP were not limited to these outputs. Based upon sharing knowledges in good faith and building upon established Indigenous governance structures, this group has also provided advice and support to its parent PBCs around related regional saltwater management issues.