Thinking Green: Local Indigenous Cultural Awareness for Landcare Volunteers

Event description

Experience an inspiring cultural journey with Vanessa Corunna, a proud Nyungar woman whose deep ancestral connections span Wadjuk, Ballardong and Palykul Country.

Vanessa will lead an immersive workshop throughout Susannah Brook Reserve, guiding participants through Indigenous perspectives, local cultural knowledges, and traditional understandings of caring for Country. This unique experience is designed for Friends Groups, catchment volunteers, environmental organisations, and anyone committed to caring for Country. With her strong community roots, involvement in the naming of Weeip Park, the Spirit of the Yagan is Alive and Well, and her role as a custodian of waterways and significant sites, Vanessa brings warmth, expertise, and a genuine willingness to share her heritage and culture.

Join us for a rich, meaningful experience that will deepen your connection to Country and enhance your understanding of local Indigenous knowledge.

What to expect?

• This workshop is an immersive bushwalk with Vanessa and will finish off with a yarning circle where participants will be offered a light morning tea and (instant) coffee and tea.

• Please be aware this bushwalk is on non-footpathed terrain, making it unfortunately unsuitable for wheelchair users and prams.

• This event will be held at Susannah Brook Reserve, Gidgegannup, exact location details will be provided after registration.

What to bring:

• Please wear appropriate clothing (long pants and shirts recommended), enclosed shoes, hat, sunscreen and bring your own water,

• Please bring your own camping chairs, if you would like to sit for the yarning circle. No chairs will be provided.

About Vanessa:

As the daughter of the late Albert and Gwen Corunna – highly respected community leaders who worked extensively with the City of Swan and contributed to Native Title and Heritage across Perth for decades – Vanessa continues a legacy of cultural strength, advocacy, and community empowerment. Vanessa's grandmother was born at Success Hill and her family’s long-standing presence across the eastern corridor, Vanessa brings a powerful and authentic voice to understanding Country.

A highly regarded educator and cultural knowledge holder, Vanessa has been recognised nationally and academically for her leadership. She is the recipient of the National Bush Heritage Australian Indigenous -led Science Prize for Working with Indigenous people in Country, the Vice Chancellor’s Award from Curtin University, and the Berndt Award from the University of Western Australia, celebrating her dedication to preserving and sharing Nyungar knowledge.

Photography and videography may be taken at this event. Images and footage may be used by the City of Swan and event organisers for marketing and promotional purposes.