Darumbal Trainee Ranger Program

A highly successful and unique program training a new generation of capable and culturally informed Indigenous rangers at Defence’s Shoalwater Bay Training Area.

Unique Partnership

The training program has been developed by a dynamic and diverse partnership that includes the Department of Defence, Downer Defence, the Darumbal People Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC, TAFE Queensland, and specialist environmental consultancy Ecosure. 

Darumbal Traditional Custodian Malcolm Mann has said, 

“The trainees have learned Downer Defence’s and the ADF’s ways of doing their business and applying their knowledge. We have found our partners at Shoalwater Bay Training Area equally eager to learn more about connection to Country that Darumbal people have had for over 2,000 generations.” 

The program achieved 100% retention which is an outstanding feat. 

All eight trainees who comprised the first cohort successfully graduated, having completed a Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management through TAFE Queensland. 

Not only does this program provide a tertiary qualification, but it also gives trainees an opportunity to develop a career in land management and full time employment on Country.

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