4 June 2021

In the face of growing interest in the waters of the Warlibiddi and Martuwarra (Margaret and Fitzroy Rivers) in north-west Western Australia, NESP research has partnered with Traditional Owners to increase our understanding of the rivers’ important cultural and environmental requirements. In this short film, senior Gooniyandi artist Mervyn Street shares his art and storytelling about the waters of the Warlibiddi and Martuwarra, and the waters’ vital significance to the Country and people’s lives.

Mervyn shares his wisdom to help viewers understand the rhythms of water and life and what they mean in his philosophical tradition. He also hopes it will help viewers understand the importance of the Warlibiddi and Martuwarra waters to not only sustain life, but also enable social connections and sustain culture for future generations. Mervyn and other Traditional Owners worked with Hub researcher Dr Sarah Laborde to help explain the relationships between water, people and places along the Warlibiddi and Martuwarra.

This research is part of a larger project improving understanding of Indigenous water requirements of the Fitzroy River and supporting Indigenous water management in the catchment which is led by Griffith University’s Professor Sue Jackson.