Bushcare Services managers were honoured to participate in a Cultural Heritage Induction through the Gold Coasts Kombumerri Country—a deeply meaningful experience that has enriched our regen field teams understanding of the Country we work on.

More Than an Induction—A Transformation

Walking Country alongside Traditional Custodians from Ngarang Wal rangers, the team discovered layers of meaning they'd been missing for years. "We thought we knew these sites well," shared one manager. "We've been restoring native vegetation here for years. But this experience opened our eyes to stories and connections we'd been walking past without seeing."

The invitation wasn't just professional development—it was an act of trust from Traditional Custodians willing to share their knowledge and connection to Country.

Seeing with New Eyes

What appeared as bushland revealed itself as carefully managed landscape: scarred trees marking ceremony sites, subtle stone arrangements indicating pathways, and shells embedded in creek banks telling stories of sustainable fishing practices over millennia. The team learned that waterways aren't merely ecological features but songlines, meeting places, and life sources with deep spiritual significance.

What We Learned About Country

We learned that every ridge, waterway, and grove of trees holds stories spanning 60,000 years. We discovered how Traditional Custodians have cared for and shaped these landscapes through knowledge passed down through countless generations. We gained insight into the deep spiritual and practical connections between people and place. "Being invited to learn about Country in this way was truly special," reflected another manager. "We're grateful for the trust shown to us and humbled by the depth of knowledge shared."

Country, Cultural Heritage and your Regeneration Practice

For Bushcare Services, this experience represents a new layer to view our landscapes—one that deepens our respect for the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waterways where we're privileged to work. We recognise that ecological restoration and cultural heritage are intrinsically connected. Cultural values may be present in places of significance, as well as in archaeological material and artefacts. Our approach is therefore based on respect, avoidance and appropriate engagement. It is a layer of site assessment and consideration that is captured in our project journeys.

Our Project

The property adjoining World Heritage Lamington National Park and owned by QPWS, will transition from a grazed farmland to an inter-connected biodiversity offset with a native species selection that favours koala food trees. The 22 Ha property will accommodate a planting of 60,000 trees over 3 years and incorporate existing fragmented vegetation.

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