The Online Yarning Circle serves as a space for sharing knowledge, reducing burdens on individuals and groups, and fostering connections among First Nations employees.

Strengthening Community and Collaboration

In 2024, the One Basin CRC established an Online Yarning Circle in response to the needs expressed by community and staff across partner organisations. This initiative was born out of the recognition that First Nations engagement and collaboration require a culturally safe and supportive environment. 

Addressing Key Challenges

Reducing the Burden on First Nations Community Engagement

First Nations community members and groups often bear a significant burden when engaging with multiple stakeholders. Without proper coordination, the responsibility to represent, advise, and collaborate can become overwhelming. Our Online Yarning Circle offers oversight and facilitates connections among interested parties, ensuring that engagement is streamlined, coordinated, and more effective. By reducing this load, we support sustainable and meaningful participation in community projects and initiatives.

Enhancing Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration

With numerous research projects and initiatives being developed across the Basin, it can be challenging to stay informed about what is being worked on and where. The Online Yarning Circle provides a dedicated space for idea exchange, problem-solving, and project development. By bringing together researchers, practitioners, and community members, we can foster innovation, improve project outcomes, and ensure that efforts are not duplicated but rather built upon collaboratively.

Supporting First Nations Employees in the Workplace

Many First Nations employees working within our partner organisations are based in remote regional centres or are the sole First Nations representative in their workplace. This can lead to feelings of isolation, cultural load, and burnout, potentially driving valuable employees away from the industry. The Online Yarning Circle offers a culturally safe space where First Nations staff can connect, share experiences, seek mentorship, and support one another. This initiative strengthens professional networks, fosters a sense of belonging, and enhances overall wellbeing in the workplace.

Looking Forward

The Online Yarning Circle continues to evolve as a dynamic platform for engagement, learning, and support. By maintaining a strong commitment to cultural safety and inclusivity, we aim to ensure that First Nations voices are heard, respected, and empowered. As we move forward, we welcome further input from the community to shape this space into a truly valuable resource for all involved.

Together, through yarning and collaboration, we can build stronger connections and create lasting positive impacts for First Nations communities and beyond.  

First Nations Engagement Lead, Geoff Reid, hosts the quarterly yarn for any of the One Basin CRC partners, or other organisations’ staff who are representing First Nations in their professional roles (many as the only First Nations employee in their organisation).  If you would like to be involved, please send an email to Geoff.Reid@onebasin.com.au.

Geoff also shares aspects of First Nations Culture from a personal perspective through regular newsletters, to join this mailing list, please click here.