Preparing bush tucker is part of the Cultural Awareness Programme Cultural awareness training is compulsory for many of our employees, and in 2008 more than 1500 of our employees participated.

Course options range from a four hour introductory course, to more extensive training such as the Wanu Wanu Cultural Awareness Programme that runs around Tom Price.

Developed over a number of years, the Wanu Wanu Cultural Awareness course is a two day, overnight course where Rio Tinto employees spend time with traditional owners learning about culture and country.

“Much of the learning on camp takes place informally,” said Rio Tinto’s Community Development Officer Norm Roe.

“We do a lot of activities in the two days - we camp out in swags overnight, prepare bush tucker and talk around the fire. Each activity introduces participants to a special part of Aboriginal culture they may have never experienced, or understood, before.”

The programme has now grown into a business, operated by local people, to meet the growing demand for Aboriginal cultural awareness programmes in the wider community.

“I believe this course is very beneficial for employees so that they get a true understanding of the unique Pilbara Aboriginal culture,” said Norm.

“The more we know and understand Aboriginal people the easier it will be work together.”

Camping outdoors, participants gain a greater understanding of the Pilbara Aboriginal culture.