The Midwest Aboriginal Ranger Program (MARP) provides opportunities for Aboriginal peoples across the Mid-West region to engage in natural resource management activities while delivering on-ground conservation with a strong cultural emphasis on Caring for Country.
This program also offers employment and training placement for rangers and ranger-teams through three program-delivery organisations: Kwelena Mambakort Aboriginal Corporation (KMAC), Western Mulga, and Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA).
The MARP is an important step towards providing meaningful employment on-Country for future generations of Aboriginal peoples.
And NACC NRM is very happy to announce that two young Noongar men – who trained with KMAC under the MARP – are now gainfully employed with the DBCA.
Last month NACC’s Aboriginal Program Coordinator had the opportunity to catch up with these inspiring men – Caleb Shaw and Jordan Jackamarra – and gain some insight into what it is like to be an Aboriginal Ranger.
Jordan Jackamarra
Jordan Jackamarra is DBCA’s Assistant Ranger in Jurien Bay. Jordan is a proud young Yued man from Noongar Country and is furthering his career alongside his mother who is also a passionate conservation and land management employee with DBCA.
Who are your mentors?
“Brad from DBCA and my Mum”
What has been your most enjoyable task so far?
“I have enjoyed prescribed burns and tree planting the most. Firefighting would have to be the most important.”
What are you looking forward to in your role?
“Learning more skills, meeting new people and exploring more of the country.”
What advice do you have for other young people looking to pursue a career in conservation and land management?
“It is a great opportunity and helps you get back on country and connecting with culture.”
Caleb Shaw
Caleb Shaw is DBCA’s new Assistant Ranger in Cervantes. Caleb is a proud young Yued man from Noongar country and sees his role as an Aboriginal Ranger being a very important part of his connection to country.
Who are your mentors?
“Shaw mob, Charlie Shaw, Aunty Annie Shaw and the Cervantes Ranger crew”
What has been your most enjoyable task so far?
“Going to the school and doing the educational talk on Indigenous heritage. Even though it is always nerve racking, I get a real kick out of seeing the kids smile while learning about Indigenous culture.”
What are you looking forward to in your role?
“Continually building on my skill sets and becoming more knowledgeable in what I see around me. Also gaining more knowledge about my culture and history.”
What advice do you have for other young people looking to pursue a career in conservation and land management?
“I SAY DO IT! This job was such a life changer for me. I was sitting behind a desk in the city, working 9-5. Hardly seeing the outdoors. Now every day I am going to new places, learning new things, meeting new people. This job is also great because it allows me to reconnect to country and give back to the land.”
The Midwest Aboriginal Ranger Program is supported by NACC NRM through funding from Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet’s, Indigenous Advancement Strategy.
Such inspirational young men, you are a real role model
May there be many more such people to take care of our country