Kay is a proud Mandandanji woman who grew up on the banks of the Balonne River. Her Water Country sits in the northern area of the Murray Darling Basin, Australia. The work Kay does in the water space is driven by her connection to the Balonne River and an obligation to Look After Country.
In Kay’s words, “Water in all its forms is essential to the social and emotional wellbeing of Indigenous peoples. Our cultural use of water provides us with strong ties to our identity and belonging.”
At this stage, Kay is booked to appear in two early sessions for the week; the knowledge sharing session “Indigenous leadership & governance in water policy for climate action” (Mon 25, 09:00-10:30) and the High Level Panel “Indigenous Peoples at the heart of decision-making, lessons for water” (Tue 26, 11:00-12:30).
During her time at World Water Week 2025, Kay is hoping to raise awareness of Indigenous interests and aspirations in water planning and management, share her knowledge and lived experiences to improve the pathways for others in this space. From the many other representatives attending she hopes to listen to learn, build relationships and partnerships with allies in this fundamental and underappreciated sector.
“We need to speak for water as a living entity and acknowledge the impacts of climate change to water, lands and skies.”
Kay has built her own sense of the shift that needs to occur, in order to address climate change through water. She stresses that the suffering of surface and ground waters is evident, impacted by weather events such as floods and droughts, and especially by human interference. Kay’s efforts extend beyond looking after her own Country to advancing the integration of more Aboriginal perspectives into environmental conservation efforts and water interests.
“We need to weave Indigenous knowledge and Western Science to find and embed solutions for better water conservation to protect our surface and ground waters. If we keep ignoring these issues, the risks will be more devastating for the well-being of ALL living beings.”
Visit World Water Week 2025 Digital Platform for more details on event sessions. Specifically featuring Kay:
Mon 25 Aug, 09:00-10:30 (CEST) – Indigenous leadership and governance in water policy for climate action
Tue 26 Aug, 11:00-12:30 (CEST) – Indigenous Peoples at the heart of decision making, lessons for water