2024 SW NAIDOC Caring for Country and Culture
Leschenault Catchment Council
The Leschenault Catchment Council (LCC) has been awarded the prestigious 2024 SW NAIDOC Caring for Country and Culture Award for their outstanding program, Danju - Jobs Together. This recognition celebrates the program's significant impact on fostering a deep connection to Country, culture, and community.
Conceived in 2017, Danju - Jobs Together was envisioned to include Noongar people in landcare work within the Leschenault Catchment. Today, the program stands as a testament to the power of integrating traditional knowledge with modern conservation practices.
Key Players Behind the Success
The success of Danju - Jobs Together can be attributed to several dedicated individuals:
Chris Howe, the Program Manager, has been instrumental in guiding the program from its inception.
Lance McGuire, the Danju Supervisor, ensures that the work aligns with Noongar values and traditions.
Peter Jetta and Shannan Turvey, the Team Leaders, inspire their crew members to embrace the land and its stories.
Field Technicians Brandon Jetta, Anthony Hansen, Chris Winmar, Nathan Mogridge, Maya Hume, Melrick Ryder, and Ranford Kearing contribute significantly to the project's success.
Beyond Paychecks: Building Skills and Friendships
The benefits of Danju - Jobs Together extend far beyond monetary compensation. Team members gain valuable skills through hands-on experience and formal training. More importantly, they forge friendships and engage in cross-cultural learning, celebrating diversity and honoring wisdom passed down through generations.
Leadership and Commitment to Traditional Owners
The LCC's foresight in facilitating a Noongar work crew underscores their commitment to Traditional Owners. By directly employing local Noongar people and supporting local businesses, they set an exemplary standard for conservation organizations and corporate partners alike.
A Brighter Future
As the community celebrates this achievement, it is clear that the Leschenault Catchment Council, Danju - Jobs Together, and the Noongar community are making a significant impact. Together, they care for Country, nurture connections, and build a brighter future—one seedling at a time.