NGALAYNGMANG

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Jawoyn Rangers and Mangarrayi Rangers

Over the last six months, the Jawoyn Rangers and the Jawoyn Association have been engaged in a series of diverse and impactful activities aimed at cultural preservation, environmental management, and community collaboration. Here is a summary of their activities:

Cultural and Community Activities

Mangarrayi Women and Girls Culture Camp: Held at Red Lily / Ngarmirrngan on Mangarrayi Country, this camp involved 40 participants who engaged in fishing, making bush bread, conducting bird surveys, and learning from Elders. The event was supported by the Jawoyn Association and Mangarrayi men who helped with logistics.

Education and Training: Jawoyn Rangers educated Barunga and Beswick Learning on Country school students about aerial burning techniques, using a helicopter and the Raindance machine. Additionally, Jawoyn ngalmuka (women) rangers participated in the Digital Women Ranger Network program under the Healthy Country AI and digital training initiative.

Tree Planting at Pine Creek: In collaboration with Vic Daly Regional Council, volunteers, Wagiman Rangers, and Batchelor Institute, the Jawoyn Rangers helped plant over 140 trees, promoting environmental stewardship and community involvement.

Environmental and Land Management

Controlled Burns: The Jawoyn Rangers conducted controlled burns around Katherine as part of their contract with NT Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics. This included the removal of fire and pollution hazards such as dumped rubbish and tyres.

Weed Management: Efforts to control Gamba Grass, a highly invasive species, involved spraying across Jawoyn Country. This activity was part of the Rangers' training under the Certificate in Conservation Ecosystem Management with Batchelor Institute.

Rock Art Maintenance: The Rangers visited rock art sites in Nitmiluk National Park for maintenance tasks, such as clearing termite tracks and removing vegetation to protect these cultural treasures from damage.

Savanna Fire Forum Presentation: The Jawoyn Rangers presented at the North Australia Savanna Fire Forum in Darwin, sharing their experiences and receiving positive feedback.

Joint Management Planning: The Jawoyn Rangers worked with Nitmiluk National Park Rangers and Fire Officer Ben Lewis to plan for the upcoming fire season. This involved discussions on safety, prescribed burning techniques, and strategies to protect the ecosystem and cultural sites.

Grants and Support

Northern Territory Aboriginal Ranger Grants Program: The Jawoyn and Mangarrayi Rangers benefited from this program, supporting their efforts towards the Healthy Country Plans. A petition was promoted to ensure continued support for these initiatives.