Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation is the Registered Native Title Body Holder (RNTBC), Prescribed Body Corporate (PBC), Land Trust and Cultural Heritage Body for the Eastern Kuku Yalanji People.
Our Yalanji Rangers
Read about our Yalanji Rangers that Care for Bubu, Jalun and Bana.
Jabalbina invites all Eastern Kuku Yalanji family groups to our Cultural Consent Workshops #2, continuing the work from the first round of discussions.
🗓 WORKSHOP DATES
Southern Yalanji 📅 Thursday, 02 April 2026 ⏰ 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM 📍 Mossman Bowls Club
Jalunji 📅 Thursday, 09 April 2026 ⏰ 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM 📍 Wujal Wujal – Jabalbina Office
🎯 Purpose of the Workshops
- Revisit Cultural Consent Framework for the leasing of Eastern Kuku Yalanji lands and other land-use decisions within each clan area. - Revisit the scope of this Framework so it can be applied to other land-use matters within clan areas. - Progress the agreed outcomes into a formal written policy.
👥 Who Should Attend All family groups who belong to, or hold rights and interests in, their respective clan areas are encouraged to join.
ℹ️ Important Information
Morning tea, lunch, and drinks provided Transport available for Elders (depending on location) Microsoft Teams link available for those unable to travel Travel expenses cannot be reimbursed
📞 Contact For questions, transport, or a Teams link: Jabalbina Reception – (07) 4098 3552 ... See MoreSee Less
Cape York United #1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)
👥Who: People who hold or may hold Native Title rights and interests in the CYU#1 claim within the Project footprint 📆Date: 1st April 2026 ⏰Time: 11am-1pm 📍Where: Daintree Community Hall - Osborne Street, Daintree QLD 4873
Purpose of this meeting: The purpose of this meeting is for: • CYLC to discuss and take instruction concerning Aboriginal cultural heritage that may be affected by this project; • CYLC to provide information and seek instructions on the terms of the proposed Cultural Heritage Agreement proposed for this project; • CYLC to, if appropriate, take instructions in relation to the amendment or authorisation of the Cultural Heritage Agreement.
To make a request for travel assistance please contact Clementine Rushford by Wednesday 25 March 2026 on free call number 1800 623 548 or by crushford@cylc.org.au.
Please contact Clementine Rushford to confirm your attendance by Wednesday 25 March 2026 on free call number 1800 623 548 or by crushford@cylc.org.au.
If you have any questions about this notice or the meeting, please contact Daniel Barker on free call 1800 623 548 or dbarker@cylc.org.au. ... See MoreSee Less
You may have already seen some new faces around the community looking deadly in their uniforms 😎
But if not, here’s a brief introduction to our newest intake of trainees ✨
💥 First week almost done! They’ve been busy signing contracts, completing orientations, signing on for training support, and meeting their new work colleagues — ALL THE FUN STUFF — before they really get stuck into it 💥
Like the previous three intakes we have had, they will be employed full-time with Jabalbina over the next six months, so please join us in congratulating them all on taking their next step into the workforce 😁👏 as part of this project, participants will undertake a Certificate I in Conservation and Ecosystems Management with Registered Training Organisation TAFE Queensland.
We hope this journey gives them confidence and empowerment, while gaining knowledge and understanding of what it means to care for bubu and jalun, and to build positive relationships with bama and community ✨🌿🪸
Nigel Minniecon’s journey through the ranger program reflects steady growth, strong leadership, and a deep commitment to caring for Country across land and sea.
Nigel began his ranger career in September 2015 as a casual ranger with Jabalbina, gaining early experience through hands-on work and learning from senior rangers and Elders. His dedication to developing his skills saw him complete a Certificate IV in Government (Compliance) in 2020, strengthening his understanding of professional ranger operations and governance.
In 2022, Nigel expanded his operational capacity by completing machinery tickets for skid steer, front-end loader, and roller, supporting a range of land management and infrastructure works. His experience extends strongly into marine operations, having completed a Coxswain Grade 1 and Divemaster qualifications which including a rigorous six-month internship with Reef Unlimited and Marine Parks. Throughout his career as an IPA ranger, Nigel gained practical experience in coral planting, COTS (Crown-of-Thorns Starfish) control, coral star rebuilds, and mooring maintenance with Queensland Parks in Port Douglas. This work involved inspecting and maintaining mooring systems on the seafloor, removing marine growth and corrosion, and ensuring infrastructure remained safe and effective while protecting reef ecosystems.
On Country, Nigel has completed training in ant baiting, gully erosion management, Fire Training Level 1, and a Small Engines course, giving him a well-rounded skill set across land, sea, and fire management. Through this training, Nigel has been responsible for servicing and maintaining work vehicles and equipment, helping ensure ranger fleets remain safe, reliable, and operational in remote conditions. He is currently continuing his professional development through a leadership program, building skills to support teams and strengthen ranger operations, He is also currently on track to complete his cert 3 in eco systems management.
Nigel has progressed through a number of roles during his career, including Casual Ranger, Traditional Owner Ranger, and Team Leader in 2023. He also spent time as a Resource Ranger, contributing to planning, coordination, and delivery of operational outcomes. Following his transition into Queensland Parks, Nigel took on the role of 004 Ranger and now serves as 006 Ranger, providing leadership and support to ranger teams working collaboratively across Parks and Jabalbina. His approach is grounded in experience, cultural knowledge, and respect for both Country and people.
Impact🎯
Nigel’s work has significant cultural, environmental, and social benefits. “All the activities I do—fires, pests and weeds management, animal and land health checks, and track maintenance—help keep our ecosystems healthy,” he explains.
“A lot has changed since I started in 2015. New programs mean more employment opportunities for our Yalanji People and more options for them to explore when choosing a career. Jabalbina has expanded a lot since I started, and I don’t think it’s going to stop here. I believe this organisation will continue growing and improving.”
Team Recognition🤝
Nigel takes a moment to acknowledge those who have guided him along the way:
“I just want to acknowledge Sea Ranger Gerard and thank him for all the support and guidance he’s given me throughout my career. I really appreciate the time, knowledge, and encouragement you’ve shared—it’s helped shape me into the ranger I am today. Wishing you all the very best for the future and whatever comes next. Thank you for everything.”
Looking Ahead➡️
Looking forward, Nigel is excited about upcoming projects and opportunities:
“We recently walked the Cedar Bay track to monitor and tag it, so people don’t get lost during their hikes. Our next trip will be a 10-day effort to clear and cut the track, making it much more accessible. Can’t wait to do that.”
He also shares his vision for his current role:
“The goal is to work alongside Parks 006 RIC at the Diwan Base and learn how they manage daily operations. So that one day, Jabalbina can look after their own Country and be the sole rangers doing so. Once we are all trained and qualified, that will become a reality.”
Nigel’s career highlights the strength of partnerships between Queensland Parks and Jabalbina, and the importance of investing in ranger pathways that support long-term development, leadership, and strong outcomes for conservation, culture, and community.👏
🌿 Expression of Interest – IOC Cook Position 🌿 Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation is seeking Expressions of Interest for an Intensive On‑Country (IOC) Cook. We are looking for someone who is passionate about preparing meals in an on‑country setting and supporting our team while they carry out important cultural and land-based activities. 📍 Location: Far North Queensland 📄 More information: See the attached poster for details. If you or someone you know might be interested, please get in touch! For enquiries, contact: Gavin Findlay 📧 gavin@jabalbina.com.au 📞 4098 3552 ... See MoreSee Less
Eastern Kuku Yalanji Native Title Group Cape York United #1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)
📆Date: Tuesday 10 and Wednesday 11 February 2026 ⏰Time: Day 1: 10:00am to 5:00pm (Registration from 9:30am) Day 2: 9:30am to 3:00pm (Registration from 9:00am) 📍Venue: Wujal Wujal Recreation Hall, 91 Kotzur Street, Wujal Wujal
If you have any queries about the purpose of this meeting, please contact Deputy Principal Legal Officer Lousie Keepa on 1800 623 548 or by email lKeepa@cylc.org.au
Attendance, Travel Assistance and Teleconferencing For travel assistance, to confirm your attendance or any general queries about the meeting, please contact Marijke Walker on 1800 623 548 or by email MWalker@cylc.org.au
Travel assistance and requests must be made by 3rd February 2026 ... See MoreSee Less
🔥 Deadly few days on Country with the Northern crew 🔥
We’ve been out on EKY Country this week, punching out some solid training alongside our ecologist as part of the Nest to Ocean project. The team is currently gathering baseline data across potential and historical turtle nesting sites to help strengthen our understanding and protection of these important areas.
We’ve also been testing the drone for mapping work, exploring how this technology can support on-ground patrols. The aim is to train the software we’re using to reduce time on patrols, improve data accuracy, and build its AI capabilities over time supporting smarter, safer, and more efficient monitoring on Country.
Deadly effort from everyone involved. Strong work combining science, technology, and ranger knowledge to care for Sea Country 🌊🐢💪
Eastern Kuku Yalanji Clan Group Workshops #2
Jabalbina invites all Eastern Kuku Yalanji family groups to our Cultural Consent Workshops #2, continuing the work from the first round of discussions.
🗓 WORKSHOP DATES
Southern Yalanji
📅 Thursday, 02 April 2026
⏰ 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Mossman Bowls Club
Jalunji
📅 Thursday, 09 April 2026
⏰ 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Wujal Wujal – Jabalbina Office
🎯 Purpose of the Workshops
- Revisit Cultural Consent Framework for the leasing of Eastern Kuku Yalanji lands and other land-use decisions within each clan area.
- Revisit the scope of this Framework so it can be applied to other land-use matters within clan areas.
- Progress the agreed outcomes into a formal written policy.
👥 Who Should Attend
All family groups who belong to, or hold rights and interests in, their respective clan areas are encouraged to join.
ℹ️ Important Information
Morning tea, lunch, and drinks provided
Transport available for Elders (depending on location)
Microsoft Teams link available for those unable to travel
Travel expenses cannot be reimbursed
📞 Contact
For questions, transport, or a Teams link:
Jabalbina Reception – (07) 4098 3552 ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Daintree Ferry Upgrade Project - Decision-making meeting
Cape York United #1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)
👥Who: People who hold or may hold Native Title rights and interests in the CYU#1 claim within the Project footprint
📆Date: 1st April 2026
⏰Time: 11am-1pm
📍Where: Daintree Community Hall - Osborne Street, Daintree QLD 4873
Purpose of this meeting:
The purpose of this meeting is for:
• CYLC to discuss and take instruction concerning Aboriginal cultural heritage that may be affected by this project;
• CYLC to provide information and seek instructions on the terms of the proposed Cultural Heritage Agreement
proposed for this project;
• CYLC to, if appropriate, take instructions in relation to the amendment or authorisation of the Cultural Heritage
Agreement.
To make a request for travel assistance please contact Clementine Rushford by Wednesday 25 March 2026 on free call number
1800 623 548 or by crushford@cylc.org.au.
Please contact Clementine Rushford to confirm your attendance by Wednesday 25 March 2026 on free call number
1800 623 548 or by crushford@cylc.org.au.
If you have any questions about this notice or the meeting, please contact Daniel Barker on free call 1800 623 548 or
dbarker@cylc.org.au. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
🎊 Skilling Queenslanders for Work 2026 📣
You may have already seen some new faces around the community looking deadly in their uniforms 😎
But if not, here’s a brief introduction to our newest intake of trainees ✨
💥 First week almost done! They’ve been busy signing contracts, completing orientations, signing on for training support, and meeting their new work colleagues — ALL THE FUN STUFF — before they really get stuck into it 💥
Like the previous three intakes we have had, they will be employed full-time with Jabalbina over the next six months, so please join us in congratulating them all on taking their next step into the workforce 😁👏 as part of this project, participants will undertake a Certificate I in Conservation and Ecosystems Management with Registered Training Organisation TAFE Queensland.
We hope this journey gives them confidence and empowerment, while gaining knowledge and understanding of what it means to care for bubu and jalun, and to build positive relationships with bama and community ✨🌿🪸
L-R Wilfred Baira, Indiana Solomon, Tasia Doughboy, Shellina Barlow, Kapreece Swindley, Riti Riley, Enrique Gibson, Jamaal Cannon, Tyreice Sands and Michael Peter.
*This Skilling Queenslanders for Work project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government.
#SkillingQueenslandersForWork
#kukuyalanji
#jabalbinaranger
#BamaStrong
#healthycountry ... See MoreSee Less
4 CommentsComment on Facebook
🌟Ranger Spotlight: Nigel Minniecon (006 Ranger)🌟
Queensland Parks & Jabalbina🌿
Nigel Minniecon’s journey through the ranger program reflects steady growth, strong leadership, and a deep commitment to caring for Country across land and sea.
Nigel began his ranger career in September 2015 as a casual ranger with Jabalbina, gaining early experience through hands-on work and learning from senior rangers and Elders. His dedication to developing his skills saw him complete a Certificate IV in Government (Compliance) in 2020, strengthening his understanding of professional ranger operations and governance.
In 2022, Nigel expanded his operational capacity by completing machinery tickets for skid steer, front-end loader, and roller, supporting a range of land management and infrastructure works. His experience extends strongly into marine operations, having completed a Coxswain Grade 1 and Divemaster qualifications which including a rigorous six-month internship with Reef Unlimited and Marine Parks. Throughout his career as an IPA ranger, Nigel gained practical experience in coral planting, COTS (Crown-of-Thorns Starfish) control, coral star rebuilds, and mooring maintenance with Queensland Parks in Port Douglas. This work involved inspecting and maintaining mooring systems on the seafloor, removing marine growth and corrosion, and ensuring infrastructure remained safe and effective while protecting reef ecosystems.
On Country, Nigel has completed training in ant baiting, gully erosion management, Fire Training Level 1, and a Small Engines course, giving him a well-rounded skill set across land, sea, and fire management. Through this training, Nigel has been responsible for servicing and maintaining work vehicles and equipment, helping ensure ranger fleets remain safe, reliable, and operational in remote conditions. He is currently continuing his professional development through a leadership program, building skills to support teams and strengthen ranger operations, He is also currently on track to complete his cert 3 in eco systems management.
Nigel has progressed through a number of roles during his career, including Casual Ranger, Traditional Owner Ranger, and Team Leader in 2023. He also spent time as a Resource Ranger, contributing to planning, coordination, and delivery of operational outcomes. Following his transition into Queensland Parks, Nigel took on the role of 004 Ranger and now serves as 006 Ranger, providing leadership and support to ranger teams working collaboratively across Parks and Jabalbina. His approach is grounded in experience, cultural knowledge, and respect for both Country and people.
Impact🎯
Nigel’s work has significant cultural, environmental, and social benefits. “All the activities I do—fires, pests and weeds management, animal and land health checks, and track maintenance—help keep our ecosystems healthy,” he explains.
“A lot has changed since I started in 2015. New programs mean more employment opportunities for our Yalanji People and more options for them to explore when choosing a career. Jabalbina has expanded a lot since I started, and I don’t think it’s going to stop here. I believe this organisation will continue growing and improving.”
Team Recognition🤝
Nigel takes a moment to acknowledge those who have guided him along the way:
“I just want to acknowledge Sea Ranger Gerard and thank him for all the support and guidance he’s given me throughout my career. I really appreciate the time, knowledge, and encouragement you’ve shared—it’s helped shape me into the ranger I am today. Wishing you all the very best for the future and whatever comes next. Thank you for everything.”
Looking Ahead➡️
Looking forward, Nigel is excited about upcoming projects and opportunities:
“We recently walked the Cedar Bay track to monitor and tag it, so people don’t get lost during their hikes. Our next trip will be a 10-day effort to clear and cut the track, making it much more accessible. Can’t wait to do that.”
He also shares his vision for his current role:
“The goal is to work alongside Parks 006 RIC at the Diwan Base and learn how they manage daily operations. So that one day, Jabalbina can look after their own Country and be the sole rangers doing so. Once we are all trained and qualified, that will become a reality.”
Nigel’s career highlights the strength of partnerships between Queensland Parks and Jabalbina, and the importance of investing in ranger pathways that support long-term development, leadership, and strong outcomes for conservation, culture, and community.👏
#jabalbina #IndigenousRangers #kukuyalanji #caringforcountry #healthycountry #StrongPartnerships #landandseamanagement #deadly #jabalbinaranger ... See MoreSee Less
14 CommentsComment on Facebook
🌿 Expression of Interest – IOC Cook Position 🌿
Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation is seeking Expressions of Interest for an Intensive On‑Country (IOC) Cook.
We are looking for someone who is passionate about preparing meals in an on‑country setting and supporting our team while they carry out important cultural and land-based activities.
📍 Location: Far North Queensland
📄 More information: See the attached poster for details.
If you or someone you know might be interested, please get in touch!
For enquiries, contact:
Gavin Findlay
📧 gavin@jabalbina.com.au
📞 4098 3552 ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
... See MoreSee Less
8 CommentsComment on Facebook
Eastern Kuku Yalanji Native Title Group
Cape York United #1 Native Title Claim (QUD673/2014)
📆Date: Tuesday 10 and Wednesday 11 February 2026
⏰Time: Day 1: 10:00am to 5:00pm (Registration from 9:30am)
Day 2: 9:30am to 3:00pm (Registration from 9:00am)
📍Venue: Wujal Wujal Recreation Hall, 91 Kotzur Street, Wujal Wujal
If you have any queries about the purpose of this meeting, please contact Deputy Principal Legal Officer Lousie Keepa on 1800 623 548 or by email lKeepa@cylc.org.au
Attendance, Travel Assistance and Teleconferencing
For travel assistance, to confirm your attendance or any general queries about the meeting, please contact Marijke Walker on 1800 623 548 or by email MWalker@cylc.org.au
Travel assistance and requests must be made by 3rd February 2026 ... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
Attention All Eastern Kuku Yalanji Traditional Owners:
The Return to Country Project is facilitating clan workshops to develop cultural consent frameworks for the purpose of leasing EKY lands.
For further information , please see notice.
For any inquiries, please contact the Jabalbina office on 07 4098 3552. ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
🔥 Deadly few days on Country with the Northern crew 🔥
We’ve been out on EKY Country this week, punching out some solid training alongside our ecologist as part of the Nest to Ocean project. The team is currently gathering baseline data across potential and historical turtle nesting sites to help strengthen our understanding and protection of these important areas.
We’ve also been testing the drone for mapping work, exploring how this technology can support on-ground patrols. The aim is to train the software we’re using to reduce time on patrols, improve data accuracy, and build its AI capabilities over time supporting smarter, safer, and more efficient monitoring on Country.
Deadly effort from everyone involved. Strong work combining science, technology, and ranger knowledge to care for Sea Country 🌊🐢💪
#oncountry #NesttoOcean #RangerWork #easternkukuyalanjicountry #caringforcountry #deadlywork ... See MoreSee Less
5 CommentsComment on Facebook