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We often look at a calendar on our wall or phone to let us know what season it is. But stepping outside the weather tells a different story. If you’ve spent enough time outdoors in the Limestone Coast you've likely noticed that the landscape doesn't always follow this structure of four seasons: summer, autumn, winter and spring. Instead, the signs of change we see around us frequently tell a different story.
Walking the Seasons with community helps bridge the gap between this seasonal framework and the rich First Nations knowledge systems that have guided people on Country for tens of thousands of years. The program provides participants with the opportunity to learn how to read the landscape, recognise signs of seasonal change, and understand the important plants and animals that shape our region.
First Nations Elder Doug Nicholls guides the program, sharing his knowledge of Country and the seasonal indicators that have long been used to understand and care for the landscape. It is a privilege to learn from him and gain a deeper appreciation of these enduring knowledge systems.
The program recently visited Carpenters Rocks during Egg and Orchid Time. Participants were joined by local plant enthusiast Neville Bonney, who shared his extensive knowledge of the area's rare and endemic species.
Drawing on decades of experience, Neville helped participants better understand the significance of the local flora and fauna while exploring the park. Along the way, the group discovered native orchids, rare eucalyptus species and the diverse habitats that make this coastal landscape so unique.
Limestone Coast Landscape Board Landscape Education Coordinator Mel Holtz said, “Giving community members access to nature in a guided setting, while learning from knowledgeable local experts, creates a truly unique experience. Every time I spend time on Country, I come away with a greater appreciation of the seasonal signs and stories held within the landscape.”
As Doug Nicholls often says, there's no better way to finish a walk than by sitting down together for a cuppa, and that's exactly how the group concluded the day.
"This program gives people the opportunity to visit Country they may never have experienced before. More importantly, it encourages them to slow down, observe the landscape and pay attention to what is happening around them. Taking the time to learn in this way helps build a deeper understanding of Country and the responsibility we all share in caring for it." he said.
The Limestone Coast Landscape Board, in partnership with Burrandies Aboriginal Corporation, is pleased to offer this program to community members across the region.
The final walk of the year is scheduled for 25 November at Butcher Gap Conservation Park during Kangaroo and Grass Seed Time. Whether you've joined us on previous walks or are new to the program, we would love to have you come along and Walk the Seasons with us.
