In July 2025, HQP staff, including our First Nation’s Cultural Advisor, visited North Queensland to meet with representatives from Djabugay, Tableland Yidinji, Dulabed Malanbarra Yidinji, Nywaigi, Girrigun Rangers, Warrgamay, and Darumbal.

The purpose of the visit was to continue our strong desire to engage with our First Nations community, to chat about ideas and ways to work together and to say G’day!

Each of these groups were very welcoming and excited to discuss work opportunities. A notable highlight in all the engagements was each groups’ strong connection to Country and desire to care for Country. Each group emphasised their connections to land, waters, flora, fauna, heritage, and ancestors. The First Nations groups welcomed any opportunities to work on Country, with most having established a pathway through their Ranger groups. The Ranger groups aim to take a holistic approach in caring for Country, including land conservation, biodiversity protection, cultural revitalisation, habitat restoration, fire management, species monitoring, and cultural heritage preservation.

It was highlighted that some Rangers groups are currently working alongside government entities like Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS), maintaining shared areas which supported further conversations about similar partnerships with HQP.