The Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation, in collaboration with South Regional TAFE and WA's Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Education, proudly celebrated the graduation of 18 participants from the pilot Certificate III in On Country Management program this month.
The Minister, Dr Tony Buti, joined the event in Geraldton to honour the achievements of these trailblazing graduates.
The Certificate III in On Country Management, developed by South Regional TAFE, provides a training opportunity for native title parties, land managers, and professionals working in the heritage and project-focused fields. The pilot program equipped graduates with skills for managing and conserving cultural and natural resources on Aboriginal lands.
Delivered both On Country and in classroom settings, the course integrated Aboriginal cultural protocols with modern technologies to: Preserve natural and cultural heritage, support sustainable resource management, and respect and honour cultural traditions and practices.
Graduates included YSRC staff, regionally based officers from the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage, and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
Following the program's successful pilot, feedback will be incorporated into the course design as it becomes part of South Regional TAFE's regular offerings. This qualification has already generated interest from other TAFE campuses across Western Australia, paving the way for more individuals to benefit from this unique training.
YSRC chief executive Luka Gray, a proud Southern Yamatji woman, presented certificates to the graduates and highlighted the program's significance for the Yamatji Nation.
She emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts, including those of TAFE staff, YSRC's Heritage Coordinator Chris Gordon, Museum of Geraldton for hosting the program and dedicated knowledge holders, such as David Ronan, Darren Callow, and Dale Forsyth.
Dr Buti praised the program's impact.
"I congratulate the first graduates of the Certificate III in On Country Management course at TAFE. Improved training opportunities like this empower native title parties, strengthen land management, and enhance the protection of Aboriginal heritage. This program exemplifies the State Government's commitment to capacity-building initiatives," he said.
Training and Workforce Development Minister Simone McGurk also commended the program:
"Congratulations to YSRC and South Regional TAFE for their leadership in shaping innovative learning opportunities. This qualification supports Aboriginal communities in caring for Country while acknowledging the deep cultural connections that guide land stewardship," she said.
YSRC reiterated its commitment to "creating pathways for growth and sustainability, empowering the Yamatji community through initiatives like the Certificate III in On Country Management".
"Our graduates are more than students—they are future leaders who will inspire generations to protect and preserve our cultural heritage," said Ms Gray.
