Victor Steffensen: Cultural Burning

Founded on generations of knowledge, Firesticks Alliance is an Indigenous-led network reinvigorating the use of cultural burning practices. Co-founded by Tagalaka man Victor Steffensen, the alliance encourages the uptake of cultural burning practices in land and fire management to increase biodiversity and the health of Country.

See Steffensen in conversation with presenter Nate Byrne, recorded live at the Powerhouse as part of 100 Climate Conversations. Entry is free, but bookings are essential as places are limited. Doors open at 2.45pm for a 3pm start. No late admittance.

100 Climate Conversations is a two-year survey of visionary Australians who are accelerating the net zero carbon revolution. To find out more and subscribe to the podcast visit 100climateconversations.com.

Victor Steffensen is co-founder of Firesticks Alliance, an Indigenous non-for-profit corporation dedicated to promoting knowledge of Aboriginal fire management practices with the aim to better care for and restore country. Steffensen is a descendant of the Tagalaka people through his mother’s connections from the Gulf Country of north Queensland. In 2008, he co-founded the National Indigenous Fire Workshops, which provide on-ground training for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities to attend Australia wide.

Nate Byrne is a meteorologist, oceanographer, science communicator and former navy officer, but is perhaps most well-known for his high energy ABC News Breakfast weather broadcasts. From briefing senior military officers and hosting children’s science shows, to presenting the nation’s weather in times of emergency and calm, Byrne understands the importance of engaging and climate-focused communications. While weather is his speciality, Byrne is driven to share narratives about the world and the role of climate change in shaping our future.