GLaWAC Rangers Take to the Water

The On Country Rangers made quite a splash recently as Tyler, Kobi, Kevin, Logan, Shak, John and Anthony completed Elements of Shipboard Safety training. Over three big days, they tackled rescue drills, survival techniques, fire-safety exercises, abandon-ship practice and life-raft operations.

This is the first time the Rangers have participated in this course together as a full group, and it already feels like a natural extension of our work. Whether on land or at sea, it is all Country, and having staff trained, confident and equipped to operate safely across every environment strengthens what we do in a real and lasting way.

“I’m out on the boats a lot already, working on the oyster trial project, so I’ll be using these skills straight away,” said On Country Ranger Tyler Hood. “Being out on the water means I’m always getting to know the local area better – learning parts of Country that you can’t easily reach by land.”

The course can count towards Coxswain Grade 2 certification. Cath, Harley and Tyrone have already achieved theirs, with Trey close behind, and we’re confident more of the new seafarers will follow in their wake next year.

These skills are central to GLaWAC’s long-term direction. Recognised qualifications open doors for mob and strengthen our organisation. But this training does more than build technical skills. It supports self-determination by helping us grow our capability and extend our reach. As the teams expand where and how they work, we strengthen our collective knowledge and ensure that people can safely reach, assess and care for the places that matter most.

Initiatives like this can support future Sea Country management, help us care for waterways, and unlock emerging opportunities in sustainable seafood projects, resource management, cultural tourism and other meaningful employment – all while keeping knowledge and capability within community.

“It’s about expanding what we can do as rangers,” explained Russell Dow, On Country Ranger Manager in the West. “When you add marine safety to what the crews already know, you create real options.”

This remarkable opportunity was funded through Latrobe City Council’s Steps to the Future program, and a huge thank you goes out to Jo and Ebony for their support. The training was delivered through TAFE Gippsland’s Seamec campus in Lakes Entrance – big respect to Brad and Gary for the skill, patience and genuine care provided throughout. And of course, special thanks to mentors Mick and CJ for all their guidance.

Stay tuned for more updates as these new skills ripple out across Country.