I purchased this painting, Tingari Men's Songline by George Ward Tjungurrayi, in an Alice Spring's art gallery, during my first visit to Central Australia, many many years ago. I knew nothing about Aboriginal art, or about Aboriginal culture, but I was drawn to this...

Reflections I am at home, recovering from my recent total knee replacement surgery. For those who've travelled this path, you know how painful this particular procedure is, but we also know that slowly, ever so slowly, if we persist with rehab things get better, pain...

The Dilemma Since becoming involved with the Greater Blue Mountains Creative Arts Network (GBMCAN), and becoming its president in 2022, I have become increasingly distressed by the way in which the arts and culture sector is not integrated into the idea of community...

Escaping the Western Cultural Prison of Dualistic Materialism I spent last weekend catching up with my Rigpa dharma community at the Sydney Rigpa Centre in Newtown, for a special Buddhist retreat with Patrick Gaffney. Patrick co-authored The Tibetan Book of Living and...

Experiencing Country as a Living Presence Unlike the Western knowledge system, anchored in Cartesian dualism, First Nations knowledge systems are anchored in a worldview whereby all of nature is alive with spiritual agency, celebrated in the core idea of Country and...

In “Wisdom and the Knowledge Code: The Map is Not the Territory,” the author delves into the intricate nuances of cultural understanding and the pursuit of wisdom. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, the narrative challenges readers to reevaluate the limitations of Western education and embrace the richness of diverse philosophies. Prepare to embark on a thought-provoking journey that explores the intersections of anthropology, Buddhist teachings, and the complexities of cultural exchange.

The 2023 NENA Conference in Canberra, themed “Life After Capitalism,” convened a diverse array of voices to confront pressing global challenges. Led by Michelle Moloney of the Australian Earth Laws Alliance, the event sparked discussions on climate change, wealth inequality, and environmental degradation, offering inspiration and dialogue on holistic solutions. This preface captures the essence of the conference, highlighting the urgency of reimagining societal frameworks and offering hope for a more sustainable and equitable future.

In Professor Holden’s recent address at the National Press Club, he sheds light on the stark contrast between mainstream economic discourse and the lived experiences of many Australians. This article explores Holden’s insights into key economic topics like productivity, education, climate change, and aging, while also critiquing prevailing narratives and examining alternative perspectives. As societies grapple with complex challenges, this discussion prompts readers to rethink traditional economic paradigms and consider pathways toward a more equitable and sustainable future.

Reimagining Conservation in Australia: Recognising First Nations Knowledge Systems” presents insights from the Reimagining Conservation Forum, highlighting the urgent need to integrate Indigenous wisdom into conservation efforts. Through collaborative dialogue and practical examples like the Balpara approach, the article advocates for a transformative shift towards pluraversities as repositories of diverse knowledge. This preface invites readers to engage with the imperative of weaving together Indigenous and Western knowledge systems for the benefit of Australia’s natural heritage.

Ruminations at the Car Boot Sale The too early Sunday morn dashing its chill upon us’s two wrapt in warm knee length coats with words of mist coming from our chatter, she and I at an open-air Car Boot Sale Market beside a pristine, glistening river way, way too early....