Mbabaram Country extends west from Atherton to Mount Garnett in North Queensland, supporting diverse Indigenous food and medicinal species with significant cultural value. This research examines production systems for two native bushfood species identified from Mbabaram country and nearby areas. One species (WAC6) represents a highly valued traditional food source with documented use by Indigenous peoples; however, it has lost favour due to its taxonomic name being reclassified to an Asian species. Knowledge of the second species' (WAC7) traditional applications has been diminished due to historical displacement from Country.
This study was initiated through formal agreements under the ARC-funded project "A Deadly Solution: Towards an Indigenous-led Bushfood Industry." In partnership with Mbabaram Traditional Owners, the research team collaboratively identified culturally and ecologically significant plants. The community granted written permission for research and actively participated throughout all stages. Indigenous Biocultural Knowledge and Cultural Protocols guided all aspects of the research, ensuring respectful and reciprocal engagement. Propagation materials were collected using Indigenous Biocultural Knowledge of seasonal timing, aligned with government protocols.
Results on seed germination, cutting propagation, and fruit nutritional chemistry for functional foods will be presented. This production research supports cultural reconnection and advancing pathways toward an Indigenous-led bushfood industry.