CAUTHE acknowledges the Indigenous peoples, Traditional Custodians, and First Nations of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and in Aotearoa | New Zealand we acknowledge Tangata Whenua (People of the Land). The Message Stick and Mauri Stone are passed onto incoming conference convenor/s as symbols of our acknowledgement of these Indigenous peoples.

Message Stick

The Message Stick, re-created for the CAUTHE 2025 conference, is a deeply significant piece of Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural artistry. Crafted by esteemed Indigenous artist, Dr David Hudson, this unique carving takes the form of Kuritjela-the Eagle (Ewamian) , a powerful totem that symbolises protection, wisdom, and vision. The eagle head watches over all who gather, ensuring that participants engage in meaningful dialogue and connection. The Message Stick serves as a bridge between tradition and the modern gathering of minds, ensuring that the spirit of unity, cultural exchange and learning continues beyond the event.

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Mauri Stone

The Mauri Stone gifted from the tribes of Tāmaki Makau Rau Auckland, New Zealand to CAUTHE holds the ethos and life principle of the land of Auckland and all those who attended the CAUTHE 2020 conference. The significance of the Mauri Stone is to protect each respective CAUTHE conference, its guardians or organisers, the attendees as well as those who will receive the responsibility of hosting CAUTHE. While the Stone is physically here, the Mauri, life force continues to protect every CAUTHE conference in the future.