A direct Larrakia descendent, Lachie’s research will integrate traditional Indigenous knowledge with modern ecological practices to inform and improve crocodile education and management.
“First Nations communities live in respectful harmony with crocodiles. This harmony has the potential to reshape crocodile management and education, however it has been largely ignored by Western culture.”
As part of his PhD, Lachie will collect insights from conversational yarning with relevant stakeholders and Larrakia Traditional Owners of the Darwin Region. This project is enriched by Lachie’s engagement with his family who are sharing traditional knowledge developed across thousands of years.
“Crocodile knowledge is sacred and shared through a rich tradition of oral storytelling. This knowledge is bound by a set of rules, often restricting access to those outside the community and place,” he explains.
“Through conversational yarning, my research will centre First Nations worldviews. In doing so, I hope to improve and inform crocodile education and management.”
Before starting his PhD, Lachie worked in outdoor environmental education, including roles as an outdoor educator, park ranger and zookeeper.
“I have guided students, tourists and co-workers across Australia’s expansive outback, nurturing a profound respect for the natural ecosystems and their intricate dynamics. My work as a zookeeper further enriched my understanding of animal behaviour and conservation strategies,” he says.
While still in the early stages of his PhD, Lachie hopes his research will help him continue this important conservation work.
“I would like to help shape environmental education and management programs across Australia, integrating Indigenous wisdom with research and education to safeguard our unique biodiversity.”
