More than 20 women from Kimberley ranger teams travelled to Gimuy (Cairns) last week to take part in the first National Indigenous Women Rangers Network.
They joined 190 Indigenous rangers from across Australia for the three-day forum, which celebrated the leadership and contribution of women in land and sea management.
Participants from Kija, Gooniyandi, Balanggarra, Yawuru, Dambimangari, Ngurrara, Bardi Jawi Oorany and Karajarri ranger teams took part in knowledge sharing and cultural activities guided by Traditional Owners and the Queensland Women's Ranger Network.
Staff from the Kimberley Land Council's Land and Sea Management Unit also delivered presentations on ranger work across the region.
KLC women's ranger development coordinator, Zaripha Barnes, said the gathering highlighted the strength and impact of female rangers.
"We heard from so many incredible women from across Australia, sharing their stories and strategies for change," Ms Barnes said.
"Together, women rangers will play a vital role in shaping the future of land and sea management.
"We flew home to the Kimberley feeling empowered and proud of the amazing community we are building around Australia."
The forum also featured the inaugural National Indigenous Women Rangers Awards, recognising outstanding contributions to land and sea management.
Awards included the Young Ranger Award, presented to Taylah Mitchell and Zalhi Hayden, and the Collaboration Award, shared by Markeeta Sullivan and Alice Manas.
Hayleigh Graham received the Mentoring and Leadership Award.
Cindy-Lou Togo was named National Ranger of the Year and received a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Sue Marsh was acknowledged with a Recognition of Service award.
Balanggarra ranger Joanne Grant, 22, said the event was a space where women felt comfortable connecting with one another.
"I met a woman ranger who worked in Cairns who for more than 20 years has been looking after her country, that really inspired me," Ms Grant said, the Broome Advertiser reports.
Ms Grant works on Country in and around Wyndham and said the experience strengthened her desire to support younger generations.
"I feel something every day when I go out to work out of town on country," she said.
"I hope some of these school kids join the Balanggarra junior ranger programs they have at some of the schools.
"I started as a junior ranger, and now I'm a senior woman Balanggarra ranger."
The forum concluded with a gala event marking International Women's Day, acknowledging the resilience and leadership of women across the sector.
