The cultural and spiritual connections of Aboriginal communities to the marine environment have long been a foundation of Cultural Ecological and ethical stewardship. Among these, the Aboriginal peoples of south Eastern Australia have deep metaphysical relationships with marine megafauna, particularly humpback whales, orcas, and dolphins. These marine creatures, often referred to as the "giants of the sea," are central to Aboriginal cosmology, playing significant roles in their creation stories, spiritual practices, and Cultural Ecological Knowledge. The Aboriginal people's understanding of these animals goes beyond physical interactions, encompassing the belief that whales, orcas, and dolphins are sentient beings that communicate with humans and possess a profound spiritual significance, they are law/Lore holders. This abstract explores the intersection of Aboriginal metaphysical beliefs and modern marine science, emphasizing how these age-old connections can inform contemporary efforts toward the protection and conservation of marine megafauna.
Drawing on both Aboriginal oral traditions and recent Ecological research, this paper highlights the importance of integrating Cultural Ecological Knowledge (CEK) with Western conservation strategies to safeguard marine megafauna. It explores how the Aboriginal's reverence for humpback whales, orcas, and dolphins contributes to their sustainable management practices, offering valuable insights into harmonious coexistence with these majestic creatures.