Fire, Knowledge and Caring for Country - CUltural Burning Panel
LOCATION: Aunty Alice Moore Stage (Speakers Tent) - Time TBA
Dr Vanessa Cavanagh
The discussion will be facilitated by Dr Vanessa Cavanagh, a Bundjalung and Wonnarua woman whose work focuses on Aboriginal-led approaches to enhancing the health of Country and people. Vanessa’s research centres on Aboriginal women’s engagement in cultural burning practices across NSW. With experience ranging from firefighting and fieldwork with the National Parks and Wildlife Service to advising national policy and giving expert evidence before the 2020 Royal Commission into Natural Disaster Arrangements, she brings a deep understanding of both traditional and contemporary fire management.
Panellists include:
Lynne Thomas, a respected Yuin–Biripi Traditional Knowledge Holder. Drawing on teachings from her father - Guboo Ted Thomas and her mother - Anne Wirrimah Thomas, Lynne has dedicated her career to caring for Country through education, cultural tourism, and land management. Through her business, Malleema Aboriginal Cultural Tours, Lynne continues to share her deep understanding of fire, language, and landscape, inspiring others to see Country through an Aboriginal lens.
Nathan Lygon is a proud Yuin, Dharrawal and Wolgalu man with a deep love and respect for fire and Country. His connection to cultural fire began at a young age, learning alongside his grandfather through time spent burning off and walking the bush. Over the past seven years, Nathan’s knowledge and appreciation for traditional fire practices have continued to grow. In his words:
“Being in the bush with your family and mob walking with fire, regenerating the land and looking after Country is incredibly fulfilling and rewarding. Fire will always be part of my life.”
Luke Hyatt is a proud Wotjobuluk , Gunai-Kurnai, Minang man who works at Birrigai Outdoor School as an Indigenous ranger. With experience in cultural burning, land management and cultural heritage management, Luke is passionate about sharing his knowledge and connection to the land with others. He takes particular pride in teaching and inspiring the next generation, helping young people build a deeper understanding and respect for culture, land, and community.
Kate Williams is a proud Darug and Yuin woman raised on Ngunnawal Country. Kate has had the privilege of learning through participation in cultural burns for many years, gaining a deeper appreciation of how fire connects people, culture, and Country. She is passionate about helping create opportunities for Aboriginal people to strengthen their skills in environmental restoration and cultural land management, ensuring this knowledge continues to be shared with future generations.
