2026/01/02 by Anne Poelina · 1 voice
Environmental Science · Social Sciences · #African studies and sociopolitical issues #Aquatic Ecosystems and Biodiversity #Conservation, Biodiversity, and Resource Management
paper · pdf · doi:10.1080/13241583.2026.2644027
openalex publication_date 2026/01/02 · openalex created_date 2026/03/20 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/15
This Oration is presented from the perspective of a woman belonging to Martuwarra, the Fitzroy River in the remote Kimberley region of Western Australia. The narrative introduces both the Martuwarra Fitzroy River Council and the Martuwarra Fitzroy River within this region. As the storyteller, she reclaims water narrative to articulate her insider worldview, values, and ethics, emphasising a holistic understanding where land, water, and people are intrinsically interconnected, rather than managed as separate entities. She contextualise colonialism within an ongoing meta-crisis, offering pathways to shift colonial perspectives on water policy, law, and integrated and adaptive management. Climate change is introduced as a concern at national and global levels, underscoring the importance of embracing opportunities for climate action. In Australia, we are learning to decolonise our thinking and practices regarding climate issues, acknowledging their impacts on ourselves, our communities, and broader national and international contexts. The concept of law as a transtemporal obligation is referenced as a mechanism to promote justice, equity, and the greater good. The conclusion calls the audience and the nation to stand with the Martuwarra Council in advocating for our collective human right to live free from harm, as has been practiced for thousands of years.