2024 Tidy Towns & Cities Finalists:

Indigenous Culture

Rye – Mornington Peninsula Shire

Living Culture was formed ten years ago to educate people about the importance of keeping Aboriginal culture alive. The organisation engages a diverse audience, sharing cultural teachings and perspectives. They are proud of their growth, evolving from offering guided cultural walks to employing five staff and subcontractors to meet high demand for cultural and environmental programs. With a broad network of kin organizations, they connect and assist when needed, fulfilling their cultural obligation to heal people and Country.

Torquay – Surf Coast Shire

Engaging Gobata Dja for land management supports Wadawurrung self-determination and Country stewardship. The Gobata Dja team is working on revegetation and erosion management at Djarrak (Bells Beach) and other culturally significant sites. This work aligns with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation’s Healthy Country Plan and strengthens the partnership between WTOAC and Surf Coast Shire Council for improved land and cultural management.

Beechworth – Indigo Shire

As part of the residential work readiness training program, Indigenous youth from Thamarrurr Youth Corporation in Wadeye will gain butchering skills with Beechworth Wild Harvest Butcher, Luke Brocke. The training includes using a specialized trailer for wild game harvesting and a modern meat processing setup. Participants will spend two days a week learning these skills and, upon completion, can use the trailer to support their communities or start a commercial enterprise.