The Torres Strait Regional Authority is recognising remarkable women in celebration of International Women's Day - 8 March - which includes a notable increase in the number of female rangers and board members.

With a significant rise from eight to 19 female rangers, women now constitute approximately one-third of TSRA's ranger workforce, dedicated to the preservation of land and sea country.

TSRA Ugaram Senior Ranger, Belphine (Gloria) Stephen said that being a ranger is one of the most fulfilling occupations in existence.

"The work we do as rangers benefits not only the environment of our unique region, but also the people who call it home," she said.

"Since joining the TSRA Ranger Program in 2019, I have had so many wonderful experiences from monitoring nesting green sea turtles in the northern Great Barrier Reef to removing marine debris from beautiful uninhabited islands.

"Working with AIMS scientists on field trips to monitor crown-of-thorns starfish along eastern reefs around Ugar, Erub and Mer was another great experience.

"It is very rewarding and I am proud to say I am a part of preserving, restoring, protecting and promoting the cultural and natural values of the Torres Strait. I come to work each day and enjoy my daily tasks and duties."

In recent years, TSRA female rangers have been part of the first Torres Strait Great Reef Census and the international award-winning Queensland Indigenous Womens Ranger Network.

TSRA Chief Executive Officer Vonda Malone – formerly the first female Mayor of Torres Shire Council – said women continued to challenge gender stereotypes and break barriers.

"Empowering women with opportunities to earn, learn and lead enables our communities to thrive," Ms Malone said.

"We are proud of the women in our workforce, including our record number of TSRA female rangers and board members who are inspiring the next generation of leaders."

TSRA Chairperson Napau Pedro Stephen AM said it was an opportunity to celebrate trailblazing women in the region and beyond.

"On International Women's Day we acknowledge the contributions of women who keep our families, workplaces and communities strong," he said.

"We also pay tribute to inspiring women who have passed, but continue to guide our way forward."

The TSRA Ranger Program started in 2009 with one ranger group on Mabuiag and has grown to 13 Ranger groups across 14 Torres Strait communities (13 islands) – supporting 55 ranger roles.