Walalkara Sanctuary

Robin K. has consistently tried to live by the teachings of his tjamu (grandfather) which is about caring for land and maintaining the law. To take advantage of other similar initiatives, Robin went to Adelaide to meet Dr. John Wamsley of Earth Sanctuaries Limited to discuss a cooperative project. Robin and John mutually agreed to work together. The creation of a sanctuary on some of Robin's country will better realize the teachings of Robin's tjamu.

Due to the success of the trip it was decided that a delegation from Earth Sanctuaries Limited, visit the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Lands in March 2000. The result was very positive, paving the way for a working document and the potential for Anangu and Earth Sanctuaries Limited to have a mutually beneficial working relationship.

There are many reasons why Irintata Homelands has assisted Robin in his wishes for a sanctuary on his country. It is hoped that employment in this case will utilize people's existing skills such as tracking and the knowledge of the land, both its flora and fauna. It is believed that a sanctuary will give strength to Anangu Pitjantjatjara's traditional ties to the land and their identity with it.

Over many decades the environment has also changed dramatically due to the introduction of feral animals. Feral animals have demolished the country by competing and ultimately destroying some of the native animals. Rock holes (tjukula), which are the core of the traditional existence, are also being decimated by camels and donkeys.

Every species of native animal, those that have gone or those that have been reduced sometimes by up to 98% from their original numbers, are important components to the Anangu Pitjantjatjara with respect to their law. Species that have disappeared from the AP Lands include the Crescent Nail-tailed Wallaby, which is now extinct, the Bilby, Rufous Hare Wallaby, Greater Stick Nest Rat, Burrowing Bettong and the beautiful Numbat.

Irintata Homelands encourages the sanctuary project for both environmental and economic reasons. It hopes to create the potential for developing a financially independent enterprise.