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One of Australia's first Aboriginal park rangers will discuss Aboriginal spirituality in a free public lecture at The University of Western Australia this Tuesday, May 13, 2008, at 6pm.

Respected Aboriginal Heritage Consultant Noel Nannup will discuss Aboriginal stories that are central to understanding the identity of Aboriginal people today, and particularly those of the Noongar people of Western Australia.

The role of spirituality, often referred to as ‘Dreaming' in Australian Aboriginal culture, covers a wide range of connecting threads, including the connection to the land and the way Aboriginal people live their lives.

"There are valuable lessons in what we glean from the past.  If we heal the land we also heal the people," Mr Nannup said.

During his 11 years as a ranger, Mr Nannup actively participated in managing and conserving areas with strong links to Aboriginal culture, including Geikie Gorge National Park in the Kimberley and Millstream Chichester National Park in the Pilbara.  Through tours focusing on Aboriginal culture, he was able to educate tourists about the importance of conserving this rich heritage.

The lecture is part of the 2008 Humanities Lecture Series, co-sponsored by the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences and the Institute of Advanced Studies at The University of Western Australia.

The lecture will be held in UWA's Alexander Lecture Theatre, within the Faculty of Arts building.

Media references

Audrey Barton (Institute of Advanced Studies)  61 8 6488 4797
Janine MacDonald (UWA Public Affairs)  61 8  6488 5563  /  0432 637 716