Two of our good friends and loves is the Strathbogie forest, its protection and Taungurung as custodians of the forest. Please consider signing this petition in support.

The Strathbogie Forest is at a turning point. In 2019 the Victorian government recognized the significant natural values of the forest, ceased all native forest logging, created an Immediate Protection Area and committed to creating a ‘conservation reserve’ across the entire 24,000 ha IPA. Whilst nature conservation is a priority for the forest, and we must make sure it remains as such, empowering Traditional Owners to heal country and pursue self determination is no less important.

Giving Traditional Owners a leading role in public land management, policy development and operational decision-making will go a long way toward healing country and culture. This forest should become a place where indigenous cultural values and practices underpin a flourishing forest ecosystem, one that becomes and remains part of Victoria’s parks and reserves estate. 

We call on the Victorian government to recognize the Taungurung people as custodians of the Strathbogie Forest and protect their rights, interests and cultural values.