TSRA Rangers put training into practice to protect the Torres Strait

Joining forces – A Traditional Owner, Saibai Mura Buway Rangers and Australian Border Force undertake a multi-agency patrol

In a boost for the region, 30 Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Rangers are now trained and ready to help patrol, protect and preserve local waters.

TSRA Acting Chairperson Horace Baira said the rangers persevered amid the COVID-19 pandemic to complete their Certificate IV in Government Investigations (Regulatory Compliance).

“Training more TSRA Rangers is a massive boost for the region’s biosecurity, community relations and fishing sustainability,” Mr Baira said.

“Our rangers are on the frontline when it comes to caring for Country and conservation in the Torres Strait.

“This training, combined with local rangers’ knowledge and community links can help local people better understand the rules to keep Sea Country safe, healthy and plentiful for future generations.

“I would like to congratulate the TSRA Rangers for embracing this opportunity,” he said.

The eight-month course combined classroom teaching, mentoring and on-the-job training including multi-agency patrols in the Top Western Communities such as Saibai and Boigu Island.

Saibai Senior Ranger Conwell Tabuai said the training helped build local capacity and skills in surveillance, investigations and compliance.

“The training was a great experience for me as a ranger in my community and will support the important work we do on land and sea,” Mr Tabuai said.

“I would like to thank all the trainers and senior staff management for their support, TSRA Rangers who participated and the Torres Strait Island Regional Council environmental health workers.”

Including this latest ranger group, more than 40 TSRA Rangers have completed the training since 2017.

The course was funded as part of the Capacity Building of Indigenous Ranger Strategy (CBIRS) provided by the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) to help build the technical skills and capabilities of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal rangers across Australia.

For more information about the TSRA visit www.tsra.gov.au

31 July 2022 is World Ranger Day – an opportunity to acknowledge the work rangers do to protect our planet’s natural treasures and cultural heritage.