There is more than one way to learn

Sometimes learning happens in a classroom. Sometimes it happens being together on Country, sharing stories, asking questions and listening to those who have walked before us.

That was the focus of a recent Cultural Walk and Talk at The Knob Reserve in Stratford, where participants in the garinga djimbayang project – Growing Traditional Foods on Gunaikurnai Country (Wurruk) – came together for a day of connection, culture and conversation.

Gathered at the Knob Reserve lookout with sweeping views across Country, GLaWAC Ranger Shay Terrick and Uncle Lloyd Hood shared stories about the cultural significance of the area, including scar trees, grinding grooves and the journey to Native Title.

“We had a yarn about bush tuckers, and all the cultural sites that are down here,” Shay said. “We also talked about Native Title and how it was handed back in 2010 and why this is such a special place. This is one of the main places that helped prove our connection to Country.”

The day reflected what garinga djimbayang is all about – bringing together Aboriginal cultural knowledge and accredited horticulture training through learning by doing, listening, observing, sharing and storytelling.

The garinga djimbayang project is a partnership between GLaWAC, Wulgunggo Ngalu Learning Place and TAFE Gippsland.

For garinga djimbayang Project Lead Sam Monks, days like this are about much more than gaining a qualification.

“Connections are critical because so many connections have been lost,” Sam said. “Just getting together like today – whether it’s through growing plants or working with TAFE – builds relationships and creates new connections.”

garinga djimbayang is supported by DEECA’s Agriculture Victoria Services, with GLaWAC leading the initiative as an extension of its Bush Foods Program, now in its sixth year.

Another great outcome of the Bush Foods program is the collection of bush spices grown, gathered and packed on Gunaikurnai Country. These include Mint Bush, Mountain Pepper Berry, Strawberry Gum, Coast Saltbush, Native Thyme and Wattle Seed. Many of these bush spices are available from our Kalimna and Morwell offices.