Looking After the Rock Art of Kakadu National Park, Australia

A collaborative, decolonized approach to rock art conservation in Kakadu National Park demonstrates that centering Indigenous culture and traditional knowledge can enhance the protection of significant Aboriginal heritage. The study highlights how a partnership between Traditional Owners, park staff, and specialists integrates Western scientific techniques with Aboriginal stewardship practices, guided by Elders' voices. This co-designed program fosters intergenerational knowledge exchange through reconnecting families to Country, improving conservation skills among local communities and rangers. By prioritizing culture over conventional methods, the model advances best practices for preserving rock art (bim), ensuring its enduring legacy while strengthening cultural connections.

Marshall, M., May, K., Lee, J., & O’Loughlin, G. (2022). Looking After the Rock Art of Kakadu National Park, Australia. Studies in Conservation, 67(sup1), 156–165. https://doi.org/10.1080/00393630.2022.2066321