Baru Conservation Alliance visits Rainforest Rescue Nursery
Deep Roots, Shared Futures: A Cross-Cultural Conservation Connection
Nursery Manager, Marine Deliens (far left) and nursery volunteer, Debra Deayton (far right), with the Baru Conservation Alliance
We recently had the absolute pleasure of welcoming the Baru Conservation Alliance to our nursery during their time in Australia. The Alliance, a community-led conservation group from Malaita in the Solomon Islands, is doing incredible work preserving regional biodiversity and cultural heritage – completely led by Indigenous Kwaio leaders.
Their team was in Australia to speak at a conference and connected with our friends at Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation, which led to a visit to our Daintree nursery. Over two hours, we shared stories, strategies, challenges and laughs.
The Baru team is looking to establish their own nursery back on Malaita island, so this was a great opportunity for them to see how we operate and talk through practical aspects of growing native species for restoration. It was inspiring to hear about their vision of combining traditional knowledge with ecological restoration and protecting the biodiversity on the island, something we deeply relate to and admire.
We talked about everything from seed collection and propagation techniques to pest management and even some of the logistical hurdles we face when working in remote tropical environments. We may each be active in different ecosystems but the heart of our work is the same. Restoring land, supporting community and protecting what matters most. Conversations flowed easily and the exchange felt like a reminder of how deeply connected conservation efforts can be, even across different landscapes and cultures.
It’s always a gift to connect with people walking a similar path and we’re honoured that our nursery in the Daintree could play a small role in supporting such a powerful movement. We’ll be cheering Baru Conservation Alliance on as they grow their nursery and continue restoring and protecting their homeland.
Here’s to strong roots and cross-cultural connections!
About the Baru Conservation Alliance
The Baru Conservation Alliance is a grassroots, Indigenous-led conservation organisation from Malaita in the Solomon Islands. Established in 2019 by Kwaio tribal leaders, the Alliance works in partnership with local communities and international allies to protect biodiversity and cultural heritage—while embracing a model of sustainable, community-centred development. Through a powerful blend of traditional knowledge and modern conservation practices, BCA is helping shape a future where people live in harmony with nature. Their work promotes Indigenous-led education, health, wellbeing, livelihoods, and environmental stewardship—creating a better, more connected world for generations to come.
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