Dugong Connections – Enhancing Knowledge Exchange and Conservation Across the Great Barrier Reef
Tracks
Kuranda Ballroom
| Wednesday, July 29, 2026 |
| 12:15 PM - 12:30 PM |
Speaker
Dr Christophe Cleguer
Principal Research Officer
James Cook University - TropWATER
Dugong Connections – Enhancing Knowledge Exchange and Conservation Across the Great Barrier Reef
ISE Congress 2026 Abstract
Dugongs (Dugong dugon) along the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) have been monitored for over four decades through large-scale aerial surveys, yet Traditional Owners—whose cultural, ecological, and intergenerational knowledge of dugongs is extensive—have historically had limited opportunities to participate in research or shape monitoring priorities. Dugong Connections was developed to address this gap by embedding culturally appropriate engagement, co-design, and Traditional Owner leadership within marine mammal science.
The project implemented a stepwise, relationship-first framework across the GBR: (1) regional workshops enabling two-way knowledge exchange, (2) community-led one-on-one engagement on Country, and (3) delivery of research and education activities on Country and co-led by Traditional Owners. Across three regions, we convened thee regional workshops, engaging 25 Traditional Owner groups and ~100 participants. Independent facilitation, flexible agendas, and visual documentation supported culturally safe dialogue and trust-building. Follow-up visits were initiated by communities and fully co-designed to reflect local governance and readiness.
This engagement pathway enabled collaborative research, including a telemetry and genetic study in the Whitsundays to investigate a recently identified genetic break and potential limits to dugong connectivity. Traditional Owners participated as decision-makers, trainees, and field collaborators, supported through training, employment, and shared data stewardship. Complementary delivery included six on-Country visits, 20 school or community outreach events, and ranger-led monitoring support.
Beyond outcomes, we will share practical, real-world lessons from the process—including successes, challenges, and missteps—to help other researchers adopt more culturally respectful, effective engagement approaches. Dugong Connections demonstrates how recognising Indigenous knowledge systems alongside western science enhances both ecological understanding and conservation legitimacy, offering a transferable model for marine mammal research globally.
The project implemented a stepwise, relationship-first framework across the GBR: (1) regional workshops enabling two-way knowledge exchange, (2) community-led one-on-one engagement on Country, and (3) delivery of research and education activities on Country and co-led by Traditional Owners. Across three regions, we convened thee regional workshops, engaging 25 Traditional Owner groups and ~100 participants. Independent facilitation, flexible agendas, and visual documentation supported culturally safe dialogue and trust-building. Follow-up visits were initiated by communities and fully co-designed to reflect local governance and readiness.
This engagement pathway enabled collaborative research, including a telemetry and genetic study in the Whitsundays to investigate a recently identified genetic break and potential limits to dugong connectivity. Traditional Owners participated as decision-makers, trainees, and field collaborators, supported through training, employment, and shared data stewardship. Complementary delivery included six on-Country visits, 20 school or community outreach events, and ranger-led monitoring support.
Beyond outcomes, we will share practical, real-world lessons from the process—including successes, challenges, and missteps—to help other researchers adopt more culturally respectful, effective engagement approaches. Dugong Connections demonstrates how recognising Indigenous knowledge systems alongside western science enhances both ecological understanding and conservation legitimacy, offering a transferable model for marine mammal research globally.
Biography
