Community & Business
21 July, 2022
Laura Finding loved ones past rangers awarded for work on land
INDIGENOUS rangers in Laura have been recognised for their efforts in preserving country and culture in the region, being named finalists for the 2022 National KPMG Indigenous Land Management Awards.
The awards acknowledge outstanding Indigenous community groups or individuals that are working towards improving land and/or sea use and/or enhancing or protecting an area on behalf of the community.
Guided by community elders, the Laura Indigenous Land and Sea Rangers have undertaken on-ground works to protect country and culture in the Quinkan Country National Heritage area since 2010.
Their work includes developing conservation management plans to better understand how the estimated 10,000 rock art sites surrounding the Laura township connect within the landscape.
Landcare Australia CEO Dr Shane Norrish applauded the fantastic work of the finalists, saying it highlighted the vast range of environmental and sustainability projects being undertaken by First Nations individuals and groups.
“First Nations peoples were the first land carers and are the custodians of a knowledge system that has developed over 40,000 years,” Dr Norrish said.
“Their leadership and expertise are critical for improving land management to provide both ecological and agricultural benefits.
“This year’s finalists showcase the diversity of work being done by Indigenous land and sea managers across Australia.
“The success of their projects demonstrates the ongoing importance of building relationships, sharing knowledge and collaborating to address Australia’s greatest ecological pressures.”
A proud supporter of Indigenous led landcare initiatives, KPMG Australia National chairman Alison Kitchen said the award provided a much-needed platform to celebrate Indigenous landcare excellence.
“This award ensures First Nations leaders in landcare continue to get the national recognition they deserve,” Ms Kitchen said.
“Celebrating First Nations champions through the National KPMG Indigenous Land Management Award produces a positive ripple effect by enhancing a broader understanding the importance of caring for country and promoting positive role models for a future generation of land carers.”
Trailblazers in cultural land management from across Australia will come together for the winner’s announcement at the awards on 24 August.
