Empowering Indigenous Rangers with bushfire risk reduction training
We offer essential training in firefighting operations, prescribed burning, and aerial incendiary burning. This training equips our clients to effectively manage a comprehensive prescribed burn program on their lands, lending vital support to Ranger Groups in mitigating bushfire risk.
North Australia Bushfire Solutions conducted a collaborative fire training program with a strong emphasis on learning, sharing, and working together. The Australian Wildlife Conservancy hosted the event, and the Indigenous Desert Alliance coordinated the participants. Special thanks go to Alice Springs Helicopters for providing a Jetranger Helicopter, the Central Land Council for their support and provision of incendiary equipment, and the Desert Support Services Rangers, who made the journey all the way from Kiwirrkurra to attend.
The positive impact of reducing bushfire risk extends across a significant portion of the Aboriginal Land Trust, opening up avenues for income generation through carbon projects. Simultaneously, it reinforces the safeguarding of community infrastructure, assets, and sacred sites against the constant threat of bushfires. Our commitment to fostering long-term collaboration and ensuring fire safety remains unwavering.
Rangers from Newhaven, Ngalurrtju, Kiwirrkurra, and Yuendumu recently completed intensive training in Incendiary Machine Operation (IMO) and Introduction to Prescribed Burning at Newhaven Sanctuary. The training program encompassed classroom sessions, hands-on experience with the “Hilux air,” a vehicle equipped with the incendiary machine, and practical exercises using the Jetranger helicopter.
The IMO course delved into technical aspects, safety protocols, and effective communication strategies, ensuring that participants were well-prepared for their fieldwork. The “Hilux air” practice sessions instilled confidence and competence, laying the groundwork for their airborne operations in the Jetranger.
This commitment to fire safety and risk reduction not only strengthens community resilience but also exemplifies the power of collaboration and knowledge sharing in ensuring a safer future for the lands and people we value.