Job boost for Indigenous rangers as Badgebup Aboriginal Corporation successful in funding round

Badgebup Aboriginal Corporation has received $616,000 in the third round of funding for the State Government’s Aboriginal Ranger Program creating 16 new jobs.

Over a 21-month period, BAC will have six part-time rangers and 10 casual rangers.

Six of the new roles will be filled by women.

BAC business development manager Julie Hayden said the funding would create sustainable employment opportunities for Indigenous people in the region.

“We have spent the past five years developing both our capability and capacity as an Aboriginal enterprise, and we are delighted it has now been recognised by the State Government,” she said.

“This funding will provide a welcome boost to our resources and enhance our opportunities to work more effectively with our partners in the region,

“Targeted training programs will upskill locals to build our capacity in delivering services to our local community,

“Several projects have been identified including developing significant sites, associated with the Noongar provenance story, in and around Katanning and monitoring Carnaby cockatoo populations at the Badgebup and Kwobrup Reserves.”

Ms Hayden said the employment of six women was significant.

“We have targeted women in our programs in preparation for our bush-foods program, which will be launched next year,” she said.

“Traditionally, bush food is women’s business and we want to provide every opportunity for women to participate.”

Twenty-four participants will undertake a course in Land Management or Horticulture Production specialising in bush foods.

The projects will be implemented in collaboration with the Shires of Katanning and Kent, other Aboriginal organisations, commercial partners and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.