Indigenous Ranger program to be established for south-west Sydney

A new on-Country ranger program is to be established by an Aboriginal Community-controlled organisation in south-west Sydney with the support of a grant from Aboriginal Affairs NSW.

The $250,000 Community and Place Grant will support Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council to build economic and employment opportunities for local Aboriginal people, a key aspect of ‘Closing the Gap’.

Melissa Williams, Chief Executive of Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council advised “this project not only aims to protect and restore our natural environment but to empower our community by providing valuable employment and training opportunities.”

The First People’s Ranger Response Team will work to restore and protect over 1,100 hectares of Aboriginal-owned land at Heathcote Ridge near Menai. Cultural burns, pest and weed management, the creation of walking tracks, waste removal and road repairs will be managed by the ranger team.

Williams added “by engaging with our community in these activities, we are fostering a sense of pride and ownership in our cultural heritage and on-Country natural landscapes.

“The ranger team will work closely with Elders on Country, Elders in Residence, the community and stakeholders to ensure that our cultural practices and ecological knowledge are integrated into all aspects of the project.

“By doing so, we are not only preserving our environment but also passing on knowledge to our next generations.”

The grant will support the employment of a team leader and trainee rangers.

The project has been designed to directly address Closing the Gap socio-economic outcomes, with a key focus on providing employment, training and skills development.

“This program is a testament to Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council's commitment to creating a brighter future for our community and members, where cultural pride and environmental stewardship go hand in hand,” continued Williams.

“By achieving these targets, the project will make significant strides in Closing the Gap, ensuring that our people thrive culturally and economically.”

Image. Gandangara rangers in a cave