CQG Consulting: Merging scientific and cultural insights for waterway health

Monitoring waterways and ecological health of the Fitzroy Basin is an important task and a key focus for the Partnership.

A local team of scientists from one of FPRH founding members, CQG Consulting has been conducting water quality testing, delivering environmental monitoring programs and ecological surveys across the catchment for over 20 years.

In 2019, the CQG team formed Tunuba, a company with the Darumbal People to collaboratively deliver a comprehensive approach for clients, through a merging of scientific skills underpinned by tens of thousands of years of cultural knowledge.

As part of this collaboration and a two-way knowledge sharing, CQG’s scientists have been training Tunuba Rangers to undertake water quality monitoring, treat weeds and to capture and protect fauna.

CQG’s Founder and Director, Patrice Brown said scientists can learn a lot about natural environments and the relationships between waters and land by working with Traditional Owners and listening to the stories told by the elders. Our scientists have an enormous respect for First Nations People and are fortunate to regularly learn about the natural environment from them.

“In western science we think of water as a separate entity, whereas we should realise it is part of country, the land, the animals, the trees and humans. First Nations people have a more holistic view of the environment where everything is connected and interdependent.

“We should listen more and learn from First Nations People to inform our decision making.

Taking of water, changing watercourses, discharging wastewaters all have impacts on ecosystems. Water quality data can be irrelevant if the bigger picture of the health of the country is not considered. Impact assessments must take into account the knowledge of First Nation People to ensure we minimise impacts and protect the natural environment.

To learn more visit www.cqgroup.com.au. CQG Consulting have offices located in Rockhampton, Gladstone, Brisbane, Mackay and Townsville.