AAC Presents Indigenous Groundwater Knowledge at International Hydrology Conference

In the week of September 15, Rangers Zaaheer McKenzie and Hayden Stuart, along with AAC Project Officer Neil Brougham, presented at the 52^nd International Association of Hydrologists Congress in Melbourne, a three-day conference attended by more than 850 groundwater specialists from around the world.

The AAC was invited to present by Congress organisers based on their previous exposure to AAC presentations about Arabana groundwater knowledge and kutha ngarrawa, with attendance supported by Congress support grants.

The Arabana presentation was part of a full-day Indigenous groundwater session - the first time Indigenous groundwater knowledge was a topic of the annual IAH Congress - and was delivered in packed auditorium with standing room only. The presentation was well received and has led to several positive outcomes that can improve knowledge and management of Arabana groundwater and provide employment and return to country opportunities for Arabana nharla, although implementing these projects will take time. 

The AAC thanks the IAH organising committee for the invitation and hopes to send AAC delegates to future IAH Congresses, including next year in Budapest!