Beyond Bunya Dieback: A Composite Article Regarding Safeguarding the Cultural and Ecological Connections of the Bunya Tree to Country

Responding to our shared concern about the plight of the Bunya tree (Araucaria bidwillii) due to dieback caused by soil-borne pathogens, this composite article brings together narrative reflections from eight contributors, who respond to prompts on confronting dieback through their unique lived experiences and professional practices. The responses offer insights for advocating a voice for the Bunya tree whilst safeguarding its cultural and ecological significance through education, advocacy, and agency. This article presents five insights gleaned from our collective responses. These are 1. honour traditional knowledge and custodianship; 2. build collaborative networks and capacity to respond to ecological decline; 3. leverage art for ecological awareness and action. 4. empower community and business leadership; 5. catalyse awareness into action. These insights are offered not as definitive solutions but as a framework for thinking and acting that may support navigating the challenges of tree dieback and regenerative forest practices.