Member Newsletter: May 2024
Dear Members,
I hope this message finds you well as we reflect on the remarkable progress we've made during the first half of 2024 at YSRC. It's been an incredibly busy time for us, and I'm thrilled to share some of the key highlights and achievements with you.
Following our recent Board meetings in May, where we discussed important matters crucial to our organisation's growth and sustainability, our team has been hard at work implementing the decisions and strategies outlined. The collaborative spirit and dedication exhibited during these meetings have set a strong foundation for our collective endeavors.
One of the most significant achievements stemming from these discussions has been our successful teamwork in reconnecting with our roots through the four Cultural Committees. Venturing back On Country has been a deeply enriching experience for all involved, fostering a deeper appreciation for our cultural heritage and ancestral lands.
Additionally, our Lands teams have been diligently surveying land parcels, through the ILUA. Our teams have been meticulously assessing the economic potentials and viability of these parcels, guided by the insights shared during our Board meetings.
As we embark on the second half of the year, let us carry forward the momentum generated by our collective efforts and commitment. Together, we are paving the way for a future that honors our past while embracing the opportunities that lie ahead.
Thank you for your ongoing support and dedication to YSRC's mission.
Warm regards,
Luka Gray
Acting CEO, YSRC
If you have any questions or feedback for our team, we would love to hear from you so please reach out via our website feedback form.
Cultural Committee's On-Country
Over the past month, we've been working closely with our Cultural Committees On-Country. It's been an amazing opportunity for everyone involved to explore potential land parcels, discuss their feasibility, economic potential, and brainstorm creative ideas for their use.
YSRC have over 1300 Land parcels to transfer from the ILUA Agreement and the Lands team are expecting the first land parcels to be transferred in the coming months
Each group had their own agenda focused on Cultural, Heritage and land sites, which allowed us to incorporate input from various departments and stakeholders like the Yamatji Land Rangers, DBCA, and DPLH.
We've been on the move, spending two days with each Cultural Committee and covering some breathtaking landscapes. Here are some of the highlights:
Hutt River Cultural Committee On-Country
We explored land parcels around Alma, Ogilvie, Binnu, Dart Moore, Wagoe and worked on management planning for Willi Gulli with DPLH and the YSRC Heritage team. We also got updates on Menai Hills from DBCA.
Your Committee On-Country - Barbara Stoeckel-Clayton, Cameron Lewis, Karen Whitby, Paul Yeti Eley, Rachel Mallard, Kayla Hampton
Mullewa Wadjari Cultural Committee On-Country
We travelled to Mullewa, inspecting land parcels through to Yalgoo, with a visit to Barnong Homestead.
Your Committee On-Country - Charmaine Green, Denice Cotterill, Glenda Jackamarra, Leedham Papertalk, Patrick Papertalk, Percy Lawson
Southern Yamatji Cultural Committee On-Country
First day Geraldton was the location for category priority Land parcels with Dongara the following day.
Your Committee On-Country - Barry Dodd, Dale Forsyth – Chair, Melanie Warner (proxy), Donna Ronan, Garry Ronan (proxy), Lee-Anne Taylor, Norman Little, Deborah Robinson
Widi Mob
We stayed at Morowa overnight with two full days visiting land parcels throughout the area, War Rock and .Karara Homestead for the future Land Transfer
Your Committee On-Country - Beverley Slater, Ashley Bell, Donna Atkins, Graham Fogarty, Julie Lewis, Kimberly Lewis
The feedback from our committees and staff has been fantastic. Everyone appreciated the cultural experience and saw it as a great opportunity for team building. A big thank you to Curtis Robinson from DBCA and Kym Suckling from DPLH for their involvement.
If you have any questions for your Cultural Committee’s, please see link below on our website.
Lands
The Lands Team at YSRC is nearing the final steps of the land transfer process, with the first parcels expected to be transferred in the coming months. This significant milestone will strengthen our connection to the land and open exciting opportunities for the corporation and our community.
In collaboration with the Australian National University, we are exploring renewable energy projects on Yamatji land, including solar and wind initiatives. Additionally, we have formally accepted land at Lot 601 in Beachlands, Bluff Point, and Narngulu from the state. Stay tuned for further updates as we continue our progress!
Heritage On-Country Management
YSRC Staff and Yamatji Sea Rangers first day training session
Certificate III in On-Country Management
YSRC is proud to announce that we are piloting a Certificate III in On Country Management. This program will be delivered throughout 2024 to over 20 Yamatji members, Land and Sea Rangers, and YSRC staff. Participants will gain valuable experience in identifying and recording sites, utilizing technology, and maintaining, protecting, and managing sustainable work practices to conserve culturally significant places. The on-country learning will be enriched with guidance from Elders and Knowledge Holders.
We look forward to offering more opportunities to empower Yamatji members, so please stay tuned for future updates.
Strawberry Bridge Monitoring
Recent work at Strawberry Bridge was a collaboration between ARC Infrastructure, our YSRC Heritage Department and Monitors. Due to the sensitive nature of the site, our Heritage Monitors supervised the project daily. To ensure safety, 17 monitors received special rail corridor training a bonus.
The work on the bridge was crucial because the Irwin River can flood and cause damage. Arc conducted works over and above their requirements to ensure that the flow of the river never stopped. Rock armour was installed to strengthen the bridge, and the project was completed safely while trains continued to run efficiently.
Feedback from ARC and our Yamatji Monitors highlighted a respectful and positive working environment. The monitors felt their contributions were valued, leading to a productive relationship and effective heritage management.
Our survey monitoring work continues to improve with collaborations with diverse proponents and YSRC continually improving On-Country Management.
Yamatji Fresh
We're super excited to share the latest news on the groundbreaking venture by Yamatji Fresh Produce, set to revolutionise Australia's agricultural landscape right here on Yamatji country!
🥒 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘄𝗮𝘆: Yamatji Fresh Produce is currently underway with planting operations with over 400,000 plants gearing up to become Australia's largest cucumber farm!
𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆: With plans to produce a whopping 1700 tons of cucumbers, this venture is ready to make a significant impact on the market.
𝗝𝗼𝗯 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: The project is not just about farming; it's about creating opportunities. Up to 100 casual jobs and 15 permanent positions are expected to be generated, providing valuable employment opportunities for our community.
𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲: From continental to Lebanese and green cucumbers catering to various industries, Yamatji Fresh Produce is all set to diversify with more produce to meet market demands.
𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: Looking ahead, plans are already in motion for expansion, with additional greenhouses set to be constructed, aiming to solidify Yamatji Fresh Produce as Australia's leading cucumber producer.
𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀: With a commitment to sustainability, the venture is embracing green initiatives, including solar power and efficient irrigation systems, ensuring a brighter, greener future for generations to come.
𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: Beyond just farming, this initiative represents economic empowerment for our Indigenous communities, marking a significant step towards self-sufficiency and prosperity.
🛒𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗮 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗬𝗼𝘂: Soon, you'll find Yamatji Fresh Produce cucumbers gracing the shelves of supermarkets across Australia, bringing the essence of Indigenous entrepreneurship to households nationwide!
Stay tuned for more updates as we witness the growth and success of Yamatji Fresh Produce, a testament to the power of partnership and progress! 🌱
💦 Now for the rain... bring it on!!!!
Yamatji Sea Rangers
Drone Course - Building skills
Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Operator Accreditation: Our Sea Rangers recently embarked on an exciting journey by participating in Central Regional TAFE’s short course in Capturing Images using Drone Technology. Over two action-packed days, our rangers delved into the world of flying drones and mastering the art of capturing images while adhering to the regulatory requirements set by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and national operating standards.
The skills acquired during this course open up a world of possibilities for our team. From conducting aerial surveys to monitor our coastline, mapping, managing lands, to heritage surveys, the potential applications of drone technology are limitless. We're thrilled about the myriad of opportunities that lie ahead as we integrate drones into our operations.
Our Sea Rangers have been diving into exciting new experiences as they near the end of our very first Sea Ranger Grant. In March, alongside Batavia Coast Dive & Watersports, our rangers embarked on an adventure to complete their PADI Open Water Diver Course. PADI, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, provided the framework for this thrilling journey, consisting of three exhilarating parts: Knowledge Development, Confined Water Dives, and Open Water Dives.
First, our Sea Rangers tackled online knowledge quizzes, gearing up for the real action. Then, they dove into the Confined Water Dives at the Geraldton Aquarena, where they honed their scuba skills under direct instructor supervision. The real thrill came during their Abrolhos Island trip, where they put their newly acquired knowledge to the test with Open Water Dives. Guided by our expert instructor from Batavia Coast Dive Shop, they completed four dives over two days, earning their certification. This experience was definitely a highlight for many of our rangers, marking a milestone in their diving journey!
Well done Rangers we are all so proud of your continued acheivements !
Yamatji Water
As part of the Yamatji Water integrated study, a Cultural Awareness Workshop was held with our Joint Management Body and Yamatji Water technicians in attendance. To raise the profile of Yamatji Water, the team met with the Mid West Chamber of Commerce, DWER, and the Mid West Development Commission. These meetings identified additional opportunities for Yamatji Water in the region.
Current projects include identifying a water supply to help boost production at the Yamatji Fresh cucumber farm and inspecting potential sites to source water for the upcoming northern access road into the Oakajee industrial estate. Managing Director Mike Hollett presented on Yamatji Water’s capabilities and supply opportunities at this week's Mid West Economic Summit and will present at the Oakajee Industrial Area industry reference group in early June.
Employment Opportunities
Introducing our Proponent Coordinator
Celeste meeting with Brad Goodlet the Cultural Heritage –
Stakeholder Engagement Lead for FI JV (FI Joint Venture)
Celeste Douglas has transitioned from her role as Lands Officer to Proponent Coordinator within our YSRC team. As Proponent Coordinator, Celeste will serve as the primary point of contact for new stakeholder inquiries. Her responsibilities will encompass ensuring seamless communication, fostering clarity, and facilitating collaboration between our team and external parties, with the overarching goal of streamlining processes and driving successful outcomes.
This strategic addition is aimed at enhancing transparency, efficiency, and satisfaction for all stakeholders involved. We remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering exceptional results and nurturing robust relationships with our partners. Your invaluable feedback and unwavering support are integral to our continuous innovation and improvement endeavours.
For any inquiries please email Celeste proponent@ysrc.com.au.
Our awesome NAIDOC Event celebration
Elder's Gift Card Program
Starting July 1, 2024, all eligible elders enrolled in the program will receive this new updated card, valued at $1000.00 per financial year.
If you have been a recipient in previous years, no action is required on your part. This is a simpler solution there is no need for you to ring Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation for activation or loading the card with funds. The EFTPOS card will all be preactivated and funds deposited prior to receiving your card.
The cards will be sent out by Registered Post so you will have to sign for the letter.
Please see some dot points for information on the use and where you can use it, more information will be sent out with your new card.
1. How does my eftpos Gift Card work? The eftpos gift card works just like your bank card, you simply swipe at the terminal, select savings and key in the PIN as printed on the back of the card. The transaction amount should be the same as or less than the value of the available funds on the card. If the transaction amount is more than the value, see question 9 for how to complete the sale.
2. Where can my eftpos gift card be used? Quite handily, they can be used wherever eftpos is accepted right across Australia. Unfortunately, it is not possible to use eftpos gift cards outside of Australia. Some retailers, at their discretion, may decline gift cards that are not their own, but these are few and far between. Membership Officer Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation.
If you have family Elders that are not YSRC Members turning 60 years old this financial year, please encourage them to join to help support them in times of hardship.
Please see our membership form here.
Membership Officer
Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation
