End of year ranger debrief

Celebrating Indigenous Rangers

Over 150 Indigenous rangers and coordinators from across the Kimberley came together for the annual Kimberley Ranger Network End of Year Debrief hosted by the KLC in December.

The four-day event is a vital opportunity for ranger groups to share experiences and stories from the year, celebrate their achievements, and strategise on how to tackle ongoing environmental challenges.

The event brought together Indigenous rangers from across the region, providing a platform to discuss the successes and hurdles they’ve encountered over the past year in their work protecting Country, wildlife, and cultural heritage of the Kimberley.

Ranger Awards

Each year, the network takes the opportunity to recognise the individuals and teams who have gone above and beyond in their roles.

The Men’s Ranger Achievement Award went to Kevin Nungatcha from the Kija Rangers for his hard work, positive attitude and dedication to the Kija Ranger team.

Also nominated: Aaron Cox (Nyul Nyul Ranger), Anthony Johnson (Balanggarra Ranger), Chase Pigram (YawuruRanger), Isiah Smith (Balanggarra Ranger), Neil Hamaguchi (Nyul Nyul Ranger Coordinator)

The Women’s Ranger Achievement Award was awarded to Miranda Johnstone from the Balanggarra Rangers for her hard work, passion and drive.

Also nominated: Addina Thirkell (Ngurrara Ranger), Paris Ejai (Gooniyandi Coordinator), Rebeca Jons (Paruku Ranger), Carlene Cox (Nyul Nyul Ranger Coordinator)

The Men’s Leadership Award was presented to Julian Nagomara from the Karajarri Rangers for stepping up into the head ranger role and for his work as the fire crew leader. He is supportive to his team and consistent in his approach to work whether it’s a large on Country trip or in more mundane day to day work.

Also nominated: Ishmael Hunter (Nyangumarta Ranger), Malcolm Jungine (Wungurr Rangers), Noel Daylight (Karajarri Rangers), Rodney Maher (Bardi Jawi Ranger), Wesley Alberts (Balanggarra Ranger)

This year, the Women’s Leadership Award was presented to both Azarnia Malay from the Dambimangari Rangers and Cyantha Cox from the Gooniyandi Rangers.

Cyantha won for her work leading, establishing and running the Gooniyandi Women’s Ranger team like a well-oiled machine. Despite a difficult personal year, Cyantha has has continued to support her team and her family.

Azarnia won for being a trailblazer the first Dambimanggarri women’s ranger coordinator. She is dedicated and her attitude to work is deeply rooted in the legacy of her ancestors.

Also nominated: Natasha George (Bardi Jawi Oorany Ranger), Azarnia Malay (Dambimangari Ranger), Rachel Treacy (Wilinggin Rangers), Tamara Moore (Bardi Jawi Ranger)

The Team Award was presented to the Karajarri Rangers for a fantastic 2024 year.

Rangers also received recognition for their training achievements with North Regional TAFE The KLC is proud to support on Country training for rangers.

The KLC would like to acknowledge and thank The Nature Conservancy Australia for their funding and support of the event.