National Science Week with SIMS: Integrating Traditional Knowledge and Marine Science

Join us at Q Station, Manly, for the SIMS National Science Week Event on Tuesday, 13 August! This event will explore the theme "Species Survival - More than Just Sustainability" through the integration of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) in marine science. Highlights include a panel discussion on TEK integration, a tour of the endangered seagrass Posidonia restoration site, and a presentation by the Sydney Seahorse Project on their conservation efforts. Enjoy engaging conversations, food, and mingling with marine science experts. Don't miss this opportunity to dive deep into the future of species conservation!

Order of proceedings:

• Posidonia Tour (4:00 PM): Begin your journey with a guided tour of the Posidonia restoration site led by SIMS’s Project Restore. Learn about the restoration efforts for this endangered seagrass and gain insights on the cultural history of the site from Rowena Welsh-Jarrett. RSVP for the Posidonia tour here: https://events.humanitix.com/n...
• Pre-Event Mingling (5:00 PM): Arrive early to enjoy a poster session showcasing marine research projects and network with fellow attendees.
• Official Proceedings (5:30 PM): The evening kicks off with a Welcome to Country and stories from Indigenous Elders, setting the stage for a meaningful exchange of knowledge and perspectives.
• Panel Discussion (5:50 PM): Join our expert panel as they explore the integration of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) in marine science. The panel will provide insights from a range of expertise and take a look at the history of Sydney harbour and Gamay, the conservation initiatives within and analyse the effectiveness of TEK integration in order to provide insights to enhance two-way knowledge exchange in marine science.
• Sydney Seahorse Project Presentation (6:30 PM): Discover the innovative approaches of the Sydney Seahorse Project in conserving endangered species. Learn how the project integrates the perspectives of Traditional Owners and empowers the next generation through conservation efforts focused on White’s seahorse and their habitats.
• Post-Event Mingling (7:00 PM): Conclude the evening with food, drinks, and further engagement with marine research posters and scientists. This is an excellent opportunity to connect with marine science professionals and enthusiasts.

Expert Panel Composition & key topics:

• Professor David Booth: Insights into the history and restoration initiatives of Sydney Harbour.
• Ms. Rowena Welsh-Jarrett: Fostering meaningful dialogue with Traditional Owners.
• Dr. Victoria Cole: Reintroducing native flat oysters into Gamay and experiences collaborating with Traditional Owners on shellfish restoration.
• Dr. Mitchell Gibbs: Moderating the panel and sharing insights from his recent Fulbright scholarship in the US, collaborating with Australian and North American First Nations people on shellfish knowledge.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of an inspiring conversation on species conservation. This is a unique opportunity to support and advance effective two-way knowledge exchange with Traditional Owners in our own backyard!

*This initiative is supported by Inspiring Australia as part of National Science Week*