The One Basin CRC has recently commenced its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) journey, aiming to embed reconciliation principles throughout all aspects of its operations.

About Our Reconciliation Artwork 

“Ngarni Yuntulur ~ We Are All Connected” by Kyla McHughes

Ngarni Yuntulur represents the deep interconnectedness of the Murray-Darling Basin, showing the relationships that begin in the Snowy Mountains, flow through rivers, lakes, the Coorong, Murray Mouth and the ocean. These waters have always connected First Nations mobs, carrying our stories, Culture, and knowledge across Country. The rivers, lakes, and sea are not just pathways – they are lifeblood, linking us to each other and to our Ancestors. Every element – waters, peoples, animals, birds, fish, flora and the land itself – plays a crucial role in keeping this living system in balance.

The painting highlights the natural cycles within the ecosystem, such as the journey of Lokeri (freshwater mussel), which not only clean the water but rely on native fish to complete their life cycle, transitioning through freshwater and estuarine waters. This cycle reflects that everything in nature is mutually dependent, every little species has an important role, and the balance will be off if we lose it, highlighting the responsibility we hold to care for Country.

Country provides us with everything we need, but in return, it is our duty to protect and sustain it. It is up to each one of us to look after everything our animals, birds and fish need to be happy and healthy, to be in abundance, and in return they will guide us and protect us. Ngarni Yuntulur is a reminder of this deep reciprocity – a call to honour our role as caretakers of Country, ensuring that all life remains strong and connected.

First Nations Inclusion Principles

Our RAP is guided by three core principles that underpin our approach to reconciliation:

• Relationships – Building and nurturing meaningful connections with First Nations peoples, communities, and organisations.
• Respect – Acknowledging and valuing the diverse cultures, histories, and contributions of First Nations peoples.
• Opportunities – Creating pathways for employment, business partnerships, and community engagement that drive positive change.

Why a RAP?

A RAP is not just a document – it is a framework that holds us accountable to our commitments and provides a clear roadmap for action. By developing a RAP, we aim to:

• Gain a deeper understanding of how we can contribute to reconciliation.
• Embed reconciliation into our workplace culture and everyday operations.
• Identify tangible ways to make a real and lasting impact within our sphere of influence.

RAP Working Group

To drive this initiative forward, we called upon our staff to join a RAP working group. The response was overwhelming, with a diverse mix of individuals stepping forward to contribute their perspectives, skills, and life experiences. This group will play a key role in shaping our RAP, ensuring that it is reflective of our organisation’s values and aspirations.

The Road Ahead

Over the next 12 months, we will embark on a journey of reflection, learning, and action. We will examine our internal policies, practices, and relationships to identify opportunities for growth and positive change. Additionally, we will seek ways to use our influence both internally and externally to advance reconciliation efforts.

We acknowledge that reconciliation is an ongoing journey – one that requires continuous effort, commitment, and accountability. While there will be immediate impacts from our RAP process, we are focused on creating long-term, sustainable change through our actions.

Our Commitment to Impact

We recognise that reconciliation is more than just words; it requires meaningful and sustained action. By embedding our First Nations inclusion principles into everything we do, we aspire to foster an environment where reconciliation is a lived experience, not just a goal.

We look forward to sharing our progress and celebrating the milestones along the way. Together, we can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable future for all.