Newsletter : February 2025
CEO Report – Shaping the Future Through Collaboration and Opportunity
As we embark on a new year, our focus remains on driving growth, fostering investment, and creating new opportunities for the Yamatji Nation. I am excited to speak at the Mid West & Gascoyne Major Projects 2025 event—an important platform for advancing discussions on economic diversification, renewable energy, and regional collaboration.
For First Nations peoples, these conversations are essential. We must be active participants in shaping the opportunities that will secure our future. By working together, we can achieve sustainable economic development and deliver long-lasting benefits to our communities.
This year, we are making substantial strides across all areas. Yamatji Water is nearing completion of the Yamatji Nation Integrated Water Study, which examines the impact of water on culturally significant sites while expanding commercial opportunities in renewable energy and carbon farming. The Yamatji Land Estate has successfully transferred more than 80% of eligible land, with new management orders, housing, renewable energy, and tourism projects now in development. Yamatji Fresh Produce continues its growth with 100,000 tomato plants in production, creating jobs and bolstering regional food supply chains. Yamatji Business Support remains fully committed to helping local businesses thrive by assisting with grant applications, workforce development, and fostering opportunities for Yamatji enterprises.
Through collaboration, innovation, and cultural strength, we are building a future where the Yamatji Nation leads in both economic and community development.
Thank you for your ongoing support. I look forward to sharing more exciting updates in the months to come!
Warm regards,
Luka Gray
CEO, YSRC
Heritage - Important Reminders for All Members
🧑🤝🧑Selection of nominations - The Cultural Committee select the right people for the country that is being worked on. The Heritage team assists in providing all names and information to the CC, which contributes equally to this process.
Commitment Matters: If you nominate for surveys, be prepared to walk up to 10km daily in various challenging conditions, including hot weather. Monitoring generally will require standing and/or sitting outside for up to eight hours per day, safely observing the construction area and removing vegetation and ground disturbance up to approximately 0.5 metres.
Attendance is Essential: Please notify us ASAP if you cannot attend a survey or monitoring. Every job requires a full team on-site, and we appreciate your commitment. People who do not show up, are late, or breach site and employment conditions related to conduct may result in suspensions of up to 12 months.
On-Site Requirements: Heritage survey and monitoring roles require you to be on-site 5-10 mins before the commencement time for OH&S safety induction and breathalyser tests. Be safe and well and free from any alcohol and drugs, with the necessary PPE.
Travel to site: Please ensure you have a road-worthy and valid vehicle license to access sites for monitoring roles. For surveys, participants will travel with the heritage services provider to and from sites.
Personal Attendance Only: You cannot send a replacement in your place for surveys or monitoring; You must call the YSRC Heritage team to ensure everyone is cleared for work, paid on time, and has completed all paperwork needed.
Travel Allowances: NO travel allowance is provided for monitoring; you must get to and from the site, have your own meals/drinks and be capable of communicating with the relevant business and be independent for the day.
Travel Requirements: Participants must travel with heritage services providers to and from the site for surveys for safety and easier undertaking of the survey.
If you must stay away from your home for surveys, accommodation and meals will be paid for by the proponent and must be used by the participants.
Your dedication ensures that our heritage is protected and respected. Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment!
Heritage Services Update - Summer Survey Shutdown Ending – Surveys Resuming Soon
We’re gearing up to recommence Yamatji heritage monitoring and surveys! If you would like to take part, please ensure you submit your application here.
Yamatji Land and Development Update
The Yamatji Land Estate continues to make significant progress, with key developments in land transfers, renewable energy, carbon farming, land development, and tourism projects. These initiatives align with YSRC’s vision of sustainable land use and economic growth for the Yamatji Nation.
Yamatji Land Estate
The first 10 parcels were allocated in late 2024, with insurance now secured.
The second tranche of management orders is set for March 2025.
A comprehensive land access policy is in development to guide future land administration decisions.
Carbon Farming
Four potential carbon farming sites have been identified.
YSRC is collaborating with a leading carbon service provider and the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage to confirm project eligibility.
Land Development Opportunities
Collaboration with the Shire of Irwin to develop a residential site south of Port Denison.
Extending the approval period of the 2011 Bluff Point Structure Plan for future 88 lot subdivision.
Awaiting $4.2 million in Commonwealth funding for future planning of Lot 601.
Tourist Developments
Conducting an opportunity and constraint analysis of Pink Lake, including future accommodation options and concept design.
Developing a feasibility study for Lucky Bay, assessing commercial viability and risks. A 12-month extension of DBCA’s management has been negotiated, including a dedicated Lucky Bay ranger position.
Renewable Energy
Partnering with Australian National University (ANU) for a rapid site assessment of wind, solar, and microgrid projects, with findings to be presented in April.
A non-binding cooperation agreement has been signed with an international wind farm developer, with feasibility studies underway.
Pre-feasibility investigations for microgrid projects on Yamatji land are progressing.
These initiatives represent exciting opportunities for economic growth, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability across Yamatji Country.
Stay tuned for further updates as these projects progress!
Yamatji Wind Map
Joint Management Plan for Yamatji Conservation Estate
The 2024 Around the Table and On-Country meetings have built a strong foundation for the Yamatji Joint Management Body’s collaboration with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions. With the final draft of the Joint Management Plan expected in the second half of 2025, this plan will play a key role in guiding the management and conservation efforts for the Yamatji Conservation Estate.
Cultural Committees guiding the way
The Yamatji Cultural Committees continue to play a key role in shaping and guiding important initiatives across Yamatji Country. From planning for a healthy future for our land and sea to strengthening the connection between Elders and Rangers, these initiatives ensure that cultural knowledge remains at the heart of conservation efforts.
Healthy Country Plan for Yamatji Southern
Launched in late 2024, the Healthy Country Plan was developed with consultant Hamish Morgan in collaboration with all Cultural Committees.
The plan assesses key environmental and non-environmental factors affecting Yamatji Southern Country.
Once finalised, baseline data will be reviewed, setting targets for healthier Country at 5-year and 10-year milestones.
Yamatji Rangers – both Land and Sea – will lead efforts in restoring and caring for Country across the ILUA area.
Yamatji Ranger Cultural Knowledge Exchange
Recognising the importance of intergenerational knowledge sharing, the Joint Management Body Project Officers initiated a Cultural Knowledge Exchange between Elders and Rangers.
Exchanges across both land and sea locations have provided opportunities for Elders to share stories, cultural site histories, and family connections.
These exchanges strengthen the bond between Elders, Yamatji Rangers, and Country, ensuring that traditional knowledge continues to guide conservation efforts.
Yamatji Land Rangers
The Yamatji Land Rangers have had a productive start to 2025, actively working across the region to support land management and conservation efforts. Their commitment extends from fire management initiatives to professional development, ensuring they are well-equipped to care for Country.
The Murchison/Midwest and Turquoise-based Ranger teams have been focused on fire management across key locations, including Urawa, Lochada, Barnong, and surrounding areas further south.
Rangers are advancing in their professional development, with most having achieved a Certificate II in Conservation and Ecosystems Management.
Some Rangers have completed Certificate III and are now progressing to Certificate IV, demonstrating their dedication to expanding their skills and knowledge.
Cultural Awareness Training Progress
Coming Together to Preserve Culture & Country! Exciting news for our Yamatji community!
YSRC is working closely with Hutt River, Mullewa Wadjari, Southern Yamatji, Widi Mob, and claim groups to develop a groundbreaking Cultural Awareness Training package. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to preserving and promoting Yamatji culture while fostering deeper understanding and respect.
Sharing Knowledge: Honouring Yamatji stories, traditions, and cultural practices.
Empowering Our People: Inspiring pride, resilience, and stronger cultural connections.
Educating Others: Promoting respect and awareness of Yamatji heritage.
Through workshops, cultural circles, and collaboration, this training will highlight the strength of Yamatji culture, from traditional land care to storytelling.
👉 Stay tuned for updates as we bring this vision to life!
Yamatji Water – Projects & Commercial Update
Yamatji Water continues to make significant progress across key areas, from finalising the Yamatji Nation Integrated Water Study to expanding commercial opportunities and strengthening water monitoring efforts.
Water Study: The commercial and technical components of the Yamatji Nation Integrated Water Study are nearing completion. The next phase will focus on understanding water impacts on culturally significant sites across Yamatji Country. Site visits are planned in the coming months to engage Elders and knowledge holders in discussions about the role of water in sustaining these sites and addressing ongoing concerns.
Water Monitoring: The Yamatji Water Monitoring team continues to provide essential monitoring services. The team is currently seeking a technical lead to be based in Geraldton, with interviews underway.
Commercial Engagements: Yamatji Water is in active discussions with multiple proponents regarding short-term and long-term water sales contracts. Recent engagements include:
A water source investigation for a green energy project.
A water licensing review for a local agricultural/pastoral company.
Providing advice and preliminary costings to Yamatji Fresh for the treatment of local groundwater to support greenhouse expansion.
Yamatji Water remains committed to ensuring sustainable water management while creating commercial opportunities that benefit the Yamatji Nation.
The Story of Water and Community: Our New Artwork
Commissioned Artwork: True Heart Design
Yamatji Water is proud to showcase a new artwork by Yamatji artist Delphine Schwarze of True Heart Designs, commissioned to represent both the company and the waterways across Yamatji Country. Delphine’s painting beautifully captures the deep connection between water, culture, and community, and we are excited to feature it in our branding as our business continues to grow.
The artwork is currently on display in our Perth office.
Story Behind the Artwork
The painting represents the many waterways flowing across Yamatji Land.
Yarning circles symbolise meeting places where Elders share knowledge, traditions, and stories, strengthening cultural connections.
It highlights how waterways support community needs, protect the land, and carry wisdom passed down through generations.
This meaningful piece reflects the heart of Yamatji Water’s work, honouring Country, respecting culture, and ensuring sustainable water management for future generations.
💦 Welcome the new Yamatji Water Team
💧We’re excited to introduce Cadence Gordon and Vilma Hodder our newest Yamatji Water Monitors! 💧
Both are currently undertaking a two-year traineeship with Yamatji Water, hosted by the DWER. Through this program, they are gaining valuable skills in water measurement, sampling, and data input while working towards their Certificate II in Measurement and Sampling, followed by a Certificate III in Laboratory Skills at Central Regional TAFE.
As proud Yamatji women, Cadence and Vilma bring enthusiasm, a love for learning, and a passion for working on Country to their roles. They’ve already achieved milestones, including dieback training, first aid certification renewal, and multiple bore monitoring runs. Looking ahead, their training will include 4WD skills, a skipper’s ticket, chainsaw training, and swift water rescue.
When they’re not working, Cadence, a proud Yamatji Widi woman, and Vilma, whose family comes from Yalgoo, love spending time with friends and family, traveling, and enjoying music.
𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙧? 𝙂𝙤 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙞𝙩!
“It’s a great balance of office and outdoor work, an opportunity to gain valuable qualifications, and a chance to get paid while learning and traveling.”
Welcome to the team, Cadence and Vilma - we can’t wait to see the amazing work you’ll do! 🎉
Team photo working onsite with Breanna Mead our qualified Yamatji Water Technician now proudly training our next generation of trainees. A true role model for our future leaders!
Yamatji Water Monitoring team conducting groundwater assessments at Strike Energy’s mine site in between Arrowsmith and Three Springs , ensuring responsible water usage and environmental sustainability.
🌱 Yamatji Fresh Produce – Growing the Future of Yamatji Nation
Yamatji Fresh Produce continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the economic future of the Yamatji Nation. With approximately 100,000 tomato plants in production, we are creating local employment opportunities and contributing to regional food supply chains.
By building our capabilities in commercial agriculture, we are establishing a strong foundation for long-term economic sustainability.
As we look ahead, our focus remains on:
Expanding market opportunities for our produce.
Enhancing workforce development to ensure a skilled and capable team.
Driving investment in Yamatji-owned enterprises to foster growth and self-sufficiency.
Through strategic growth and collaboration, Yamatji Fresh Produce is not just cultivating crops; we are cultivating an economy that will provide lasting benefits for our community for generations to come.
Yamatji Business Support (YBS) – Business Development Update
Yamatji Business Support (YBS) is off to a busy start in 2025, with a high demand for business development assistance. Our team is currently fully booked, helping applicants navigate grant processes and explore workforce opportunities. We appreciate your patience as we work through existing commitments.
For those who have submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI), please rest assured that we will be in touch as soon as possible. If you're awaiting a response, there’s no need to follow up, our team will reach out when we’re ready to progress your application.
Thank you for your continued engagement with Yamatji Business Support, and we look forward to supporting your business development needs!
Welcome Travis McNaught to YSRC!
We’re excited to introduce Travis McNaught as our new Chief Commercial Officer.
Travis brings extensive experience in project management, business development, and stakeholder engagement, having led major projects across regional WA, including tourism, infrastructure, and industrial developments.
Previously, he was Project Director at Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation, where he played a key role in securing funding and driving major initiatives.
Originally from Geraldton, Travis returns home after over 10 years in Karratha, bringing a deep commitment to creating opportunities for the Yamatji Nation. He looks forward to contributing to YSRC’s success and supporting sustainable economic growth.
Please join us in welcoming Travis to the team!
Yamatji Business Register – Get Listed!
The Yamatji Business Register is an essential tool for Yamatji businesses to gain visibility and access new opportunities. By being listed, businesses can connect with potential partners, clients, and projects across the Yamatji Nation. Whether you're a startup or an established business, this register provides a platform to promote your services and products.
If you think you are ready to start a business or grow your existing business and want to see if you are eligible for support, please email our YBS Team.
Stay connected and grow your network within the Yamatji business community!
Membership Review Reminder
YSRC is beginning a membership review to ensure our records are up-to-date and meet the eligibility criteria set out in our Constitution. This process is an important step to strengthen our governance and maintain the integrity of our membership.
What You Need to Know:
Members will receive a notification about the review, outlining any updates that may be needed for their records.
There will be a three-month period to provide any missing information, with YSRC staff available to offer support if required.
We encourage all members to participate in this process to ensure their membership remains current and compliant with our guidelines.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work through this important update. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
If you are a current member turning 60 years of age in 2025 please note our membership officer will be in contact to update your details to receive the Elders Gift Card as part of our program process.
If you have any questions or feedback for our team, we would love to hear from you so please reach out via our contact form.
🖤💛♥️