17 June, 2025

Tamworth, NSW – The NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) is proud to announce a 3-year sponsorship of the inaugural Aboriginal Ranger Gathering, hosted by Tamworth Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC) and the Walaaybaa Rangers from 16–20 June 2025 at Trelawney Station near Tamworth.

More than 150 Aboriginal Rangers from across New South Wales, the ACT, and the Northern Territory are coming together to share knowledge and build capacity in cultural land management, showcasing the depth and breadth of Aboriginal leadership in protecting Country.

NSWALC Chairperson Cr Raymond Kelly commended the work of Tamworth LALC and Walaaybaa Rangers in leading and hosting this innovative, culturally grounded program.

Cr Kelly said, “This event is not only a celebration of cultural knowledge—it’s a strategic contribution to Australia’s future. We are proud to announce a 3-year sponsorship package in the hope this will become a landmark event celebrating Aboriginal Culture and Heritage.”

“Aboriginal Ranger programs help prevent environmental degradation, restore biodiversity, and support the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future. They are key partners in everything from land conservation to renewables and disaster resilience.”

“What will be particularly deadly is the Ngarringilanha (sitting together) and Burrulaa Ngurra (many camps) aspect of the Gathering where every afternoon participants will gather around the fire for an informal yarn to share stories and celebrate successes while also discussing useful apps, and sites for plant identification, weeds and threatened species.”

The week-long program will include training in traditional practices including pest management, cultural burning, and native grains, whilst introducing next generation technologies such as drones and mapping technologies—demonstrating how traditional ecological knowledge works hand-in-hand with science and innovation.

“Aboriginal people have managed land for more than 60,000 years through fire, kinship and cultural practices that protect biodiversity and sustain ecosystems,” said Cr Kelly.

“That expertise is essential as Australia navigates the impacts of climate change, invests in renewable energy, and works to restore degraded landscapes.  The Land Rights network has a critical role to play—not just in protecting culture, but in shaping a safer, more sustainable future for everyone.”

The Ranger Gathering is a demonstration of how Aboriginal communities are leading locally while contributing to statewide and national priorities – particularly in ecological restoration, reliable land management services, disaster resilience, and sustainable land use.

NSWALC continues to support initiatives that elevate Aboriginal-led solutions to cultural and environmental challenges and proudly partners with LALCs to invest in knowledge systems that benefit all communities across New South Wales.