Journalist
By Neena Bhandari
SYDNEY, 30.12.2014 (IPS): Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders comprise 2.5 per cent (some 548,370) of Australia’s 24-million strong population, but they are not recognised by the Constitution.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Recognition Act 2013 (Act of Recognition) acknowledges indigenous peoples’ unique place as Australia’s first peoples.
VIDEO: Time to recognise Indigenous Australians in the Constitution
By Neena Bhandari
Cairns [Queensland], December 17, 2014 (IPS) – As a child growing up in Far North Queensland, William Clark Enoch would know the crabs were on the bite when certain trees blossomed, but today at 51 years he is noticing visible changes in his environment such as extreme climatic conditions, frequent storms, soil erosion, salinity in fresh water and ocean acidification.
“The land cannot support us anymore. The flowering cycles are less predictable. We have to now go much further into the sea to catch fish”, said Enoch, whose father was from North Stradbroke Island, home to the Noonuccal, Nughie and Goenpul Aboriginal people.
By Neena Bhandari
Adelaide (South Australia), 7.11.2014: The apple weighs heavy in my bag as my eyes fall on the billboard at Adelaide Airport displaying strict quarantine restrictions – `Fruits, Vegetables and Plants prohibited in South Australia. Fines apply’. I promptly retrieve the ripened fruit and discard it in the designated food bin in the arrivals hall.
South Australia prides itself for its clean, green, fresh produce, zealously protecting its farms, orchards and vineyards against fruit flies and pests. From seafood and grain-fed meats, to cheese and pates, artisan smallgoods and chocolates to world-renowned wineries, this fourth largest Australian state and its capital, Adelaide, has become a much sought after destination for the growing group of gastronomic travellers passionate about food and wine.
