Uncle Robert Cooley
Uncle Robert Cooley is a proud Yuin-Bidjigal man and Manager of the Gamay Rangers, a team of Indigenous rangers caring for Country across Gamay Botany Bay. With deep cultural knowledge passed down through generations, Uncle Robert plays a vital role in protecting sea Country, supporting biodiversity, and sharing Aboriginal perspectives on land and water management. He works closely with national park staff, marine scientists, and community groups to ensure First Nations voices guide sustainable stewardship. A respected cultural educator and community leader, Uncle Robert is passionate about reconnecting people with Country through story, ceremony, and care.

Presented as part of Big Blue Ideas
Who owns the ocean?
Thursday 15 May | 6.30pm
Marine Protected Areas – the national parks of the sea - promise to save our oceans, but do they work?
Are they protecting marine life or just drawing lines on a map? Some say they are our best hope for ocean recovery. Others argue they’re just too difficult to enforce and threaten livelihoods.
What are they, who do they serve and what could they become?
Australian National Maritime Museum