This presentation links Indigenous knowledges in a soundmap for songback; a decolonising approach to Guula ‘koala’ conservation. The songback soundmap will trace the interconnectedness of song tracks, language, kin, ceremony, deep time and call-and-response. Through the songback soundmap, Guula ‘Koala’ with Country brings our attention to the relational components of sonic sovereignties and their contribution to ecological knowledge. My intention is to assist in reconceptualising the way Indigenous knowledge activates conservation principles in working with Country in a sonic and relational approach.
This presentation shares some yarns with First Nations’ song and dance peoples who were called to sing up Birrbay Country in ceremony for Guula ‘koala’ conservation. The songback soundmap includes sonic elements to help reimagine Guula ‘koala’ conservation through a songback decolonising approach.