Fire Working Group Named Environmental Champions at 2025 Landcare Awards
Preston Cox accepted the award
The Dampier Peninsula Fire Working Group has been awarded the First Nations Landcare Collaboration Award at the 2025 National Landcare Awards.
Held annually, the Landcare Awards celebrate the remarkable efforts of individuals, groups, and organisations across Australia who are making a difference in sustainable agriculture, conservation, and community-led environmental management. And this year, the spotlight turned north to the Kimberley, where this dedicated group has been protecting Country for more than a decade through traditional fire management practices.
"Extremely proud this Indigenous-led group has been recognised nationally. When we started over 10 years ago, we thought enough is enough of seeing our land burn – and here’s the proof of what can be achieved."
- Preston Cox, Nyul Nyul Ranger
Kimberley Land Council regional fire officer Azton Howard and Nyul Nyul Ranger Preston Cox flew to Brisbane to accept the award on behalf of the grou[.
Over a Decade of Collaborative Cultural Burning
The Dampier Peninsula Fire Working Group brings together a broad alliance of stakeholders, including:
Rangers from Bardi Jawi, Nyul Nyul, and Yawuru Ranger groups
The Kimberley Land Council (KLC), Rangelands NRM, Environs Kimberley, Department of Fire and Emergency Services, Shire of Broome, and many others
Together, they have worked to reintroduce and maintain cultural burning practices across the Peninsula. These traditional methods have not only reduced destructive late-season wildfires but have also rejuvenated native landscapes and protected biodiversity - demonstrating the power and relevance of Indigenous knowledge in modern land and fire management.
“It feels really good, was amazing to come all this way. Over the years we’ve worked collaboratively, and it really matters – and it’s great to get this recognition.”
- Phillip ‘Bibido’ McCarthy, Bardi Jawi Ranger
A Win for Country, Culture and Collaboration
This award is recognition of the power of community-led environmental action, guided by generations of cultural knowledge and fuelled by a shared commitment to protecting Country.
Congratulations to everyone involved in the Dampier Peninsula Fire Working Group. Indigenous-led conservation initiatives are setting a powerful example for how respectful partnerships and Indigenous leadership can drive meaningful environmental change.
