Empowering Women in Conservation: Leadership and Growth within the Kimberley Ranger Network — ASN Events

Empowering Women in Conservation: Leadership and Growth within the Kimberley Ranger Network (120371)

Zaripha Barnes 1 , Rachel Treacy 1 , Roberta Daylight 2 , Nahtanah Tang Wei 1 , Joanne Grant 3
  1. Kimberley Land Council, Broome, WESTERN AUSTRALIA, Australia
  2. Kija Rangers, Kimberley Land Council, Broome, WA, Australia
  3. Balanggarra Rangers, Kimberley Land Council, Broome, WA, Australia

The Kimberley Land Council (KLC) plays a pivotal role in the Kimberley Ranger Network, with a strong focus on the women leading conservation and land management efforts across the region. This presentation will showcase inspiring stories of women such as Joanne Grant from Balanggarra Rangers, who has progressed from Junior Ranger to a senior team leader; Senior Kija Ranger Roberta Daylight; and KLC’s dedicated support staff, including Rachel Treacy, who has advanced from Ranger Coordinator to Program Manager, Tanah Tang Wei, the Business Manager for Land and Sea Management, and Zaripha Barnes, the Women's Ranger Development Coordinator, in her specialized role supporting all women rangers.

The KLC Land and Sea Management Unit oversees seven ranger teams across the Kimberley, as well as a Fire and Carbon Program. As part of our commitment to advancing women's roles in conservation and land management, these women—coming from diverse backgrounds—are central to the KLC’s strategic objectives and Women's Ranger Strategy. This presentation will highlight how the KLC empowers women, fosters leadership, and creates sustainable opportunities within the region.

The Kimberley Indigenous Women’s Ranger Strategy embodies the collective strength of women rangers in the Kimberley and is designed to address the unique challenges and aspirations Indigenous women face in ranger roles. Our vision is for a future where Kimberley women rangers are respected, confident, and empowered leaders. Rooted in collaboration and mutual support, the strategy reflects the voices of Indigenous women and the common issues they face, not only in ranger work but in broader Indigenous communities. We are also eager to hear from other women and organisations about their experiences and successes in addressing these challenges.

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