Supporting the conservation economy in the Kimberley

One of EK's strategic goals is to work collaboratively to establish grassroots sustainable economies that enable thriving communities. We are excited to continue supporting the community-led conservation economy initiative The Wattleseed Collective.

EK’s Mandy Shovellor and Victor Warrell harvesting wattleseed. Photo: Holly Timperley.

Last year the growing social enterprise was successful in supporting community members to collect wattleseed on Country right across the west Kimberley from Bidyadanga to Fitzroy Crossing – no easy feat in the muggy heat of the Kimberley build-up season.

Selina Middleton, Mandy Shovellor, Ree-alla Oscar and Shaniqua Shaw cleaning wattleseed. Photo: Tessa Mossop.

Once the superfood seed was collected from trees, it was cleaned and processed on Country, and at our new premises at 9 Farrell Street in Broome, ready to be sent out to delight tastebuds across Australia. 

The Wattleseed Collective was also successful in attracting industry development funding raised by you – our generous community – through their chuffed campaign. The money raised goes towards wages for facilitators working with each language group, the costs of vehicles, food, fuel, roasting and grinding, and Elders’ time.

Beautiful healthy wattleseed in the process of being cleaned.

You can order your delicious, nourishing wattleseed from the EK shop here. It a great gift too.

You can read more about the Wattleseed Collective here.

Thank you all who continue to support the development of this sustainable conservation enterprise initiative.