Djinkarr man, Dean Munuggullumurr Yibarbuk, has been recognised for his lifelong dedication to land conservation and management in west Arnhem Land and beyond.
Charles Darwin University awarded Dr Yibarbuk an Honorary Doctor of Letters during a special ceremony on Country in Maningrida, acknowledging his contributions to Indigenous Ecological Knowledge and land management.
For more than 30 years, he has worked with Indigenous ranger groups, researchers, and organisations at national and international levels, integrating scientific knowledge with traditional burning techniques.
His work has influenced government policy and contributed to the development of the world's first savanna burning methodology.
"My journey started over 30 years ago, walking alongside and sharing knowledge with some of Australia's first Aboriginal rangers," Dr Yibarbuk said.
"A lot of work, time and energy has been put into these ranger groups as well as research, and I can say I am proud of the journey we have all been on."
Dr Yibarbuk hopes his work will inspire more people to become rangers or support land management efforts.
"Receiving this on Country offers an opportunity for my community to witness my footprints and to encourage more people to find ways for economic growth through traditional methods of land management and care."
"These methods are important, and we need to keep showcasing that they are contributing to the biodiversity of the world."
CDU Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Scott Bowman said the university was proud to recognise Dr Yibarbuk's impact across Northern Australia.
"CDU believes in recognising and celebrating the transformative leadership of First Nations people for the future prosperity of all First Nations peoples, and Dr Yibarbuk's work, his continuous commitment to his people, his Country and contributions are the exact pillars the university stands for and are guided by," Professor Bowman said.
"Dr Yibarbuk's work is the perfect example of First Nations partnerships for the betterment of all peoples, and we congratulate him on his accolade."
The ceremony was attended by CDU senior executives, current and former colleagues, Aboriginal rangers, family, and friends.
