About the Living Knowledge Project

The Living Knowledge Project is a partnership between Devonport Library and local palawa people.

At its heart, the project is a year-long residency program, offering a platform for Tasmanian Aboriginal people to share their personal journeys through the ancient art of yarning and storytelling. 13 palawa Elders and knowledge holders will be in residence at Devonport Library over a 12 month period, beginning in June 2024.

In a local library setting traditionally associated with the written word, this initiative represents a groundbreaking opportunity to integrate oral traditions and Tasmanian Aboriginal perspectives into the mosaic of knowledge dissemination, information access, learning and connection.

About Shannon Mansell

Shannon Mansell is a proud Pakana, Tralwulway man who has lived within Launceston all his life.

Shannon is dedicated to returning Cultural Fire to Country in the right way, and to helping train and develop opportunities for his community. He is also a big believer in the value of community being together on Country practicing Cultural Fire and is proud to be a part of the Lutruwita Firesticks Program that is helping this to happen.

Shannon also worked for 13 years with the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service where he completed a Diploma in Conservation and Land Management. Shannon holds his Certificate II in Public Safety (Firefighting Operations) and has been involved with over 100 burns across Lutruwita.

Shannon is a proud father of three kids.

About Jesse Williams

Jesse Williams has lived in the north of Lutruwita his whole life and is an avid supporter of Cultural Fire.

Jesse holds a Diploma in Conservation and Land Management and has a long professional background as an Aboriginal Ranger with the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service. Jesse also holds a Certificate II in Public Safety (Firefighting Operations) and other Western accreditations in firefighting. He has a high level of knowledge and awareness in the fire space, and is furthering his journey with Cultural Fire by leading the Firesticks Mentoring Program in Lutruwita.

Jesse loves being able to work on Country and apply his responsibilities in her health and healing while also supporting the community. Jesse experiences immense satisfaction in being able to assist others with these learnings and with their own identity and personal growth journeys.

To ensure a successful event, please:

• Don’t attend if you are unwell

• Let us know if you can’t attend so we can offer your place to someone else

• Practice COVID safe behaviours

• Let us know if you have any support needs, or if a support person will be coming with you.

Accessibility:

• The multi-level car park (corner of Best Street and Fenton Way) provides disabled access parking, lift access and flat walking surfaces between the car park and the paranaple centre. Council parking fees apply.

• Entrance to the paranaple centre is via automatic doors at both Market Square and Rooke Street entrances. The Market Square entrance offers universal access and is available at the touch of a button, providing ease for patrons with access difficulties.

• Inside the paranaple centre, Devonport Library is located on both ground and first floors. Escalators, lifts and stairs are available to take you between the two floors. A parent and child room is situated on the ground floor and accessible toilets are available on all floors.

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