Underwater art helping tourism jobs surface

A TRAINING program involving the Museum of Underwater Art is giving Indigenous people an opportunity to put their passion for culture and the environment to practical use.

The eight-week program is designed to give Manbarra traditional owners and Bwgcolman people clearer pathways into tourism careers as guides for the next installation of the museum on Palm Island.

The full-time paid training program will be delivered by Reef Ecologic, Manbarra traditional owners and Savannah Guides, and is being funded with $100,000 from The Morris Family Foundation. Manbarra traditional owner and Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) director Vicki Saylor said the program was a welcomed opportunity for visitors to experience the museum first-hand through the eyes of Palm Island’s traditional owners and the Bwgcolman people.

“An important part of the MOUA story is the cultural connection to country and what better way to tell this story than through the eyes and hearts of Indigenous guides,” Ms Saylor said.

“The purpose of MOUA is to enhance the destinations’ tourism appeal and spark meaningful conversation about the reef, but the board (MOUA) also have a real vision to support the local community and economy, and a big part of this is to generate a benefit to Indigenous Australians, particularly residents of the Palm Island Group.

“We’re excited about the future flow-on effects of this program to upskill our community, and be able to share our culture and passion for the Greater Palm Island Group with locals and visitors alike.”

Trainees will receive formal training and qualifications in boating, diving, project management, marine science and tourism.