Cultural Fire at Dorrobbee Grass Reserve

Photos by Olivia Katz

Jagun Alliance was joined by Ngulingah Local Land Council rangers, local Bundjalung elders, representatives from Conservation Futures and Bush Heritage Australia and many more to conduct a cultural burn on the Dorrobee Grass Reserve.

This site has a history of fire regimes and is a significant part of the grassy pathway that runs inland from the coast near Broken Head. It's easy to see why it's such a significant place, with views extending north to the Tweed Caldera, west towards the Richmond Range, south to Swan Bay and eastwards to the ocean. All present were treated to a beautiful winter's day and the views to match. It's easy to see why the Old People burned this Country.

Conditions were determined to be suitable for a burn and rangers from both Ngulingah Land Council and Jagun Alliance managed the burn as a form of regeneration of the native grasses and control of invasive weed species that inhabit the grassland. The implementation of cultural fire is necessary to ensure the maintenance and health of Kangaroo Grass (themeda triandra) in the long-term. It's also vitally important to continue culture and connection to Country.

It was great to have mob from far and wide – from Yaegl, Gumbaynggirr, Bundjalung and Gullibul Country and beyond – come for a yarn and a feed. Some stories and song were shared amongst those present.

Bugalbeh to all who came, yarned up and connected.