Reflecting on a Meaningful Start to WDA Conference 2024 in Wagga Wagga

Natalie Wood
Product Development Manager

Recently Karabena participated in an incredible launch for the Wildlife Disease Association Conference 2024 on Wiradjuri Country in NSW. 'RESPECT', was a unique launch event which celebrated and centred Wiradjuri First Nations culture, and reflected on what those working in conservation, One Health and the environment might learn from the Wiradjuri ways of yindyamarra and gulbali ngurambang. Our gathering of WDA members, conference organisers and community members, plus a global online audience, commenced with a powerful smoking ceremony and a warm Acknowledgment of Country from Luke Wightman at Wagga Beach. Luke's humble and meaningful ceremony and words set the tone for an event grounded in culture, respect and connection.

Our group then embarked on a symbolic walk along the Murrumbidgee River to the Charles Sturt University Riverina Playhouse. Here, there was an insightful panel session, thoughtfully chaired by Andrew Peters. A wealth of unique perspectives were brought to the conversation from esteemed panellists — Peregrine Wolff, Lisa Adams, Kerry Arabena, Arianne Lowe and Nigel Sutton, alongside Letitia and Sarah from Yirra Miya (the brilliant creatives behind the WDA conference logo).

Themes of respect, listening, reflection, going slowly and learning, were centred - aligning with the Wiradjuri theme of yindyamarra. The panellists shared their insights into what these principles mean in the context of wildlife health and conservation.

We were then very fortunate to hear some insightful closing remarks from Wiradjuri Elder Aunty Cheryl Penrith OAM, who was able to join for the conclusion of the session.

The discussions were insightful and deeply thought-provoking. It's heartening to know that this dialogue connected with the audience present, and reverberated across the globe too, reaching a large audience of people online in Australia, USA, Canada, Brazil, Peru, Honduras, Chile, Argentina and Dominican Republic.

The wisdom gained and themes from the WDA launch discussions will be carried throughout 2024, culminating in the conference itself in December 2024.

Watch the conference discussions here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DoHAsMKm-V8&t=2s