$4m Funding boost for Pilbara Ranger network

By PETER ROWE

Biodiversity and community wellbeing in northern Western Australia will receive a significant funding boost, with Lotterywest to provide a $4.1162 million grant to support a series of strategic programs administered through the Pilbara Ranger Network (PRN).

The PRN is an Aboriginal-led partnership of 10 Traditional Owner groups working together to share knowledge, resources and opportunities to care for Country and establish cultural land management within the Pilbara region.

“Thanks to the State Government and Woodside Energy for a funding the vessel, which will enable us to look after sea Country and islands, as the Elders have always wanted us to do,” Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation Chairperson Peter Hicks said.

“With a formal joint management arrangement for the Dampier Archipelago coming soon, it is important that MAC has the skills and ability in-house to get to the islands whenever we need to.”

Through its grant, Lotterywest will provide funding for training, staff, equipment, planning, governance and future sustainability of the PRN.

Included within the three-year program are resources for mentoring programs, ranger exchanges, and networking forums that will allow rangers to build their own career and training pathways.

This project will support PRN members to respond to deliver biodiversity initiatives in the region by driving innovation and impact through a collective voice.

In addition, Lotterywest will provide $204,000 to Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation (MAC) to help fund the purchase of a 5.8 metre vessel for managing Murujuga sea Country.

Woodside Energy has also made a financial contribution towards the vessel as part of its ongoing partnership with MAC.

“Woodside is proud to maintain our role as the principal supporters of the MAC Ranger program, reinforcing the coexistence of cultural heritage and industry,” executive vice-president and chief operating officer Australia Liz Westcott said.

“This commitment strengthens the rangers’ important role in the World Heritage nomination efforts by enhancing their operational capabilities and resources.”