Newsletter : 2026 January - February
Message from the CEO
2026 has begun with steady momentum for Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation. We remain focused on advancing our priorities while strengthening the foundations that will support the organisation over the long term. This year is not simply about delivering programs — it is about ensuring our governance, structures and workforce are aligned and capable of supporting the next stage of growth across the Yamatji Nation.
A significant milestone has been reaching 100 Yamatji businesses supported through Yamatji Business Support. This represents more than a number. It reflects the drive, resilience and entrepreneurial strength within our community. Each business supported strengthens families, creates local employment and builds economic independence. Sustainable economic participation continues to be central to securing long-term and intergenerational opportunity for Yamatji people.
I am also proud of the continued development of our Yamatji Ranger teams. Through accredited training, hands-on experience on Country and strengthened partnerships, our Rangers are building capability while maintaining cultural authority and fulfilling joint management responsibilities. Their work demonstrates leadership grounded in culture — where knowledge of Country guides land and sea management with professionalism and pride.
The progress we are seeing reflects the strength of our community and the commitment across the organisation.
Warm regards,
Luka Gray
CEO, YSRC
Heritage Update
Stronger Systems, Stronger Cultural Care
There is positive news from the YSRC Heritage team as we continue strengthening the way we care for and protect Yamatji cultural heritage.
Over the past year, YSRC has been progressively bringing more of our heritage work in-house. This means heritage activities are now being managed directly by our own team, here at YSRC.
This is an important step forward for our organisation and for our members. It strengthens cultural knowledge, supports clear decision-making, and ensures heritage processes remain guided by Yamatji voices and governance.
Our dedicated Heritage team includes:
Diann – Heritage Manager
Khegan – Heritage Coordinator
James – Heritage Coordinator
Together, they support members to participate in heritage surveys and cultural heritage activities across Country, ensuring the right people are involved in the right work.
Meet the YSRC Heritage Team
Behind every survey, consultation and cultural heritage process is a dedicated team working to support members and protect Yamatji heritage. We are proud to introduce the YSRC Heritage team who are leading this important work in-house.
Heritage Manager - Diann McKenzie
As Heritage Manager, Diann leads the strategic direction of YSRC’s heritage operations. She works closely with members, proponents and stakeholders to ensure cultural heritage processes are managed respectfully, professionally and in alignment with YSRC governance.
Diann plays a key role in strengthening internal systems, supporting compliance under the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage framework, and ensuring Yamatji voices remain central in decision-making.
Heritage Coordinator - Khegan Brockman
Khegan supports the coordination of heritage surveys and on-Country activities, working closely with members to ensure the right people are engaged in the right work.
With a strong understanding of community, cultural responsibility and on-Country protocols, Khegan assists with survey preparation, member engagement and field logistics. His work helps ensure heritage activities are organised, respectful and culturally informed.
Having worked closely within heritage processes and on-Country fieldwork, Khegan is passionate about protecting cultural places and supporting members to actively participate in preserving Yamatji heritage for future generations.
Heritage Coordinator - James Brockman
James plays an important role in keeping our mob connected to land and culture through YSRC’s heritage work. As Heritage Coordinator, he supports the principle of “right people for right Country,” helping coordinate opportunities that ensure cultural responsibility is upheld across heritage activities.
With over 20 years of frontline government health service experience, along with further studies through the University of Western Australia in research, development, program delivery and group facilitation, James brings strong community knowledge and leadership to the team. He also served for many years on the Amangu Working Group in the lead-up to the establishment of the ILUA and YSRC.
James is passionate about yarning and learning from people’s lived experiences, deepening his understanding of culture and sharing knowledge in the same way our ancestors have done for more than 65,000 years. He believes in always moving forward and remaining a positive, productive member of community, for community.
Yamatji Rangers - Critical Teamwork on Country
Over the past two months, our Yamatji Rangers have continued delivering important work across land and sea, strengthening cultural connections and caring for Country through hands-on conservation, monitoring and partnerships.
Chapman River estuary invasive Sharp Rush removal
The YSRC Yamatji Rangers have successfully removed invasive Sharp Rush (Juncus acutus) from the Chapman River estuary, protecting a threatened coastal saltmarsh and strengthening the health of this important ecosystem.
Sharp Rush was identified during late-2024 environmental assessments as a high-risk invasive species. Known for spreading rapidly, it outcompetes native vegetation and threatens local wildlife habitats. Careful planning around river conditions ensured the removal process was conducted safely and effectively, with works completed on 21 January.
Working alongside Coastal & Marine NACC Project Officer Josh Burney, Rangers applied hands-on, culturally respectful methods to minimise further spread. Seed heads were removed first, followed by the careful extraction and disposal of plants to prevent regrowth within the estuary system.
The Chapman River estuary holds deep cultural significance for the Mullewa Wadjari, Naaguja and Amangu peoples. With appropriate consent in place, this work represents caring for Country through collaboration, cultural responsibility and environmental stewardship.
The YSRC Yamatji Rangers will continue monitoring the site to ensure it remains free of Sharp Rush and to protect the integrity of this culturally and ecologically significant area.
We thank all partners involved for their dedication and teamwork in protecting this important place.
This project is jointly funded by the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust and NACC NRM, a member of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners panel.
Sea Lion Monitoring – Beagle Island
The YSRC Yamatji Rangers continue to play an active role in caring for Sea Country, with Ranger Andrew Ronan recently participating in a Sea Lion monitoring trip to Beagle Island in partnership with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (Parks and Wildlife Service, Western Australia).
The day commenced at Gum Tree Bay with a vessel safety briefing before launching just after 8:00am. Once anchored offshore, the team moved carefully across surrounding reefs and islands to undertake important monitoring activities.
Key tasks included:
Camera station maintenance
Drone transects
On-ground surveys across bushland and beach areas
Counting Australian Sea Lions
Multiple islands were assessed throughout the morning, with sea lions recorded on the third island before the team regrouped and returned safely to the mainland by midday.
This collaborative work strengthens long-term conservation efforts while building Ranger capability through practical, hands-on experience. It reflects the powerful combination of cultural knowledge, technical training and strong partnerships working together to protect marine species and ecosystems across Yamatji Sea Country.
We acknowledge the dedication and professionalism shown throughout this operation and remain proud of the commitment our Rangers continue to demonstrate in caring for land and sea.
💦 Yamatji Water
22nd Annual Wetlands Conference
On 5 February 2026, Yamatji Water was proudly represented at the 22nd Annual Wetlands Conference in Perth by Vilma Hodder, Junior Water Technician, alongside Laurie Barlow, General Manager Strategic Projects.
Vilma delivered an engaging and confident presentation, sharing her journey as a proud Yamatji Nations woman progressing from trainee to Junior Water Technician. She spoke about the important work undertaken by Yamatji Water and highlighted the success of the trainee program in creating meaningful employment pathways within the water sector.
Her presentation generated strong interest and positive feedback from attendees, prompting valuable discussions about the impact of Yamatji Water initiatives and the opportunities available for Aboriginal people pursuing careers in water management.
This milestone reflects not only Vilma’s dedication and growth, but also the strength of Yamatji Water’s commitment to building local capability, supporting career development and leading in water stewardship.
We congratulate Vilma on representing herself, her community and Yamatji Water with professionalism and pride. Her achievement is a testament to the vision and hard work of the entire team.
Vilma Hodder, Junior Yamatji Water Technician
Lands Team Update
Land Estate Due Diligence Underway
The Lands Team is currently focused on essential due diligence across the Yamatji Land Estate.
This process ensures we have a clear understanding of ongoing land management costs, including fire management, rates and insurance, while also identifying opportunities for each parcel of land moving forward.
As part of this work, the team recently visited land near Koolanooka Hills alongside the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) to inspect existing firebreaks and discuss future management options.
Members are encouraged to explore the YSRC online mapping system, which provides access to all eligible land parcels across the estate:
This mapping tool strengthens transparency and supports informed decision-making as we continue building a sustainable land management framework.
Restoring Country
On the ground, restoration work continues to gain momentum.
In partnership with our Rangers, the Lands Team successfully secured funding to undertake a cleanup of the Alice Nannup site. Works included vegetation management and general maintenance to ensure the site remains cared for and accessible.
At the Irwin River, Rangers have been removing invasive Boxthorn and collecting native seeds to support long-term revegetation and biodiversity outcomes.
These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to caring for Country, strengthening ecosystems and protecting culturally significant places for future generations.
The A team On Country - Yamatji Rangers Andrew Ronan, Andrew Yarran and Yamatji Lands Manager Andrew Close
Cultural Awareness Training – Codesign in Action
Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation is progressing the codesign of its Cultural Awareness Training (CAT) initiative, with Amarah leading the project as Project Manager.
Following a successful first workshop in Geraldton last month, representatives from the Cultural Authority, YSRC and Yamagigu staff came together to share knowledge, strengthen relationships and guide the direction of the training content.
The strong participation and generous contributions from attendees are now shaping the next stage of development for the online training content.
A second workshop is scheduled for early March and will continue this important work, supporting the development of both online and in-person training packages. The initiative aims to:
Raise cultural awareness
Support respectful engagement with Yamatji Nation Country and culture
Create new economic opportunities for the corporation
Farewell Gabe mapping legend
We also acknowledge our Mapping Officer, Gabriel Kovesi, who will be leaving YSRC to travel through Central America.
As one of our longest-serving team members, Gabe has been instrumental in supporting the land transfer process, developing our online mapping system, and working closely with Rangers on restoration work at the Irwin River.
We sincerely thank Gabe for his dedication and contribution over the years. We wish him safe travels and look forward to building on the strong foundations he has helped establish.
Welcome to the YSRC Team
Curtis Robinson - Joint Management Body and Cultural Committee Engagement Coordinator
We are pleased to welcome Curtis Robinson to Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation as our Joint Management Body and Cultural Committee Engagement Coordinator.
Curtis works closely with Cultural Committees and community stakeholders in relation to the Yamatji Nation Conservation Estates, jointly managed by YSRC and DBCA. He brings over a decade of experience in joint management across the Kimberley, Pilbara and Midwest regions, with a strong background in Land Management, Cultural Engagement and Front Line Management.
Curtis is motivated by raising awareness of our people’s journey and ensuring strong pathways for future generations. His advice to others entering the field is:
“Always remember where you come from — emotionally, culturally and in your self-identity.”
Outside of work, Curtis enjoys spending time on Country with family and friends, cooking BBQs, and supporting community initiatives focused on environmental care and men’s health.
He looks forward to continuing his journey at YSRC for the benefit of community.
Drew Elliott - Project Manager
We are pleased to welcome Drew Elliott to Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation (YSRC) as our new Project Manager.
Drew brings a strong background in construction management and work health and safety, underpinned by hands-on experience as a qualified carpenter by trade. His practical knowledge combined with project leadership skills will be a valuable asset as YSRC continues delivering projects that support and strengthen our community.
After nearly a decade away, Drew has returned home to Geraldton to be closer to family and begin a new chapter. He is passionate about working collaboratively with the YSRC team to deliver high-quality projects that create lasting impact across Yamatji Country.
Outside of work, Drew enjoys spending time on the golf course — his favourite way to unwind and recharge.
Please join us in welcoming Drew to the YSRC team.
Yamatji Business Support
2026 Strong Start, Strong Demand
Yamatji Business Support has launched into the year with exceptional momentum, experiencing one of our strongest starts to date.
Demand for support is high, and our team is currently fully booked through to mid-April. We kindly ask members to keep this in mind when planning enquiries and sincerely thank you for your patience as we continue supporting a growing number of Yamatji businesses.
If we are unable to book you in immediately, you will be placed on our Expression of Interest list and contacted as soon as an appointment becomes available.
Before approaching Yamatji Business Support, please ensure you:
Are a current Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation (YSRC) member
Have a genuine business idea or an existing business you are actively operating or preparing to launch
Hold an active ABN in the correct business name
Have relevant business registrations in place, including GST registration where required
Have a clear understanding of the support you are seeking (for example, grants, business planning, compliance, or growth support)
We appreciate your understanding as we continue delivering culturally informed and practical business assistance across our region.
100 Businesses and Growing
🖤💛♥️
Today, we celebrate a significant milestone
100 businesses supported through Yamatji Business Support.
Of the businesses we have worked with: 60% have been established enterprises seeking to strengthen and scale.
40% have been new start-ups taking their first steps into business
We are especially proud of an 85% business survival rate across those we support.
Collectively, these businesses now employ more than 60 people (not including business owners), creating meaningful employment opportunities across our region. These outcomes reflect not only the demand for culturally grounded business assistance, but the resilience, capability and determination of Aboriginal entrepreneurs.
Yamatji Business Support is proud to have walked alongside each of these businesses. To every client past and present, thank you for trusting us to be part of your journey.
Over the past four years, this work has been both intense and rewarding. During this time, we have also supported other Aboriginal organisations to establish their own business support units, sharing our learnings to strengthen economic development beyond our immediate footprint and contribute to a broader
Aboriginal enterprise ecosystem.
We acknowledge and thank our valued partners, including:
Many Rivers, Indigenous Business Australia, IPS Consultants, Small Business Development Corporation, Waalitj Hub, Morguul
Together, these partnerships provide critical wrap-around services including:
Business planning and feasibility support
Cashflow forecasting and financial analysis
Financial literacy support
Borrowing capacity assessments and loan applications
Grant identification and applications
Tendering and procurement advice
Governance and compliance guidance
Tax structuring and business setup advice
Marketing strategy and digital presence support
Growth and expansion planning
Risk management and business continuity planning
Supplier linkages and market access opportunities
Workforce planning and organisational structuring
Looking ahead, we are eager to strengthen pathways for our clients by working more closely with Supply Nation to support eligible businesses to become registered and better positioned for procurement opportunities.
We are also exploring the introduction of limited in-house training to complement our external partnerships, with further details to be shared as this progresses.
100 businesses is not just a number
It represents livelihoods
It represents confidence
It represents capability
It represents a growing, sustainable network of Aboriginal enterprise across Yamatji Country.
Join the Yamatji Business Register
Are you a Yamatji business owner? We’d love to feature your business on the Yamatji Business Register, a dedicated space on our website that provides free advertising for Yamatji-owned enterprises, with additional opportunities for spotlighting on social media.
The register is actively used by proponents, investment partners, and government agencies looking to engage First Nations businesses for upcoming contracts, services, and collaborative projects.
What’s in it for you?
Free listing on the YSRC website I Increased visibility with industry & government contacts I Marketing Support
If you’re interested, simply fill out the form online.
Check out the live business register below: