Message from the CEO

As we move through 2026, YSRC continues to make strong progress in delivering outcomes under the Yamatji Nation Indigenous Land Use Agreement. There has been a lot of work happening across the organisation, and we continue to build the systems, people and governance needed to support Members and community now and into the future.

As part of this growth, YSRC has continued to expand across a number of key areas. New positions are helping to strengthen our service delivery, governance, operations and on-Country programs. Importantly, these roles are also creating long-term opportunities for Yamatji people and supporting the development of a strong, capable and sustainable organisation

We are also proud to share that the new YSRC uniforms, designed by Yamatji designers for rollout in 2026, have arrived and are already being worn with pride. These uniforms reflect our identity, culture and connection to Country, and will proudly represent YSRC across our staff, Directors and Cultural Committees.

Planning has also commenced for this year’s iconic NAIDOC Drone Show. This event continues to grow each year and has become an important celebration of Yamatji culture, storytelling and community pride. Early planning is already underway, and we look forward to bringing the community together again for another memorable event in 2026.

Kind regards,
Luka Gray
CEO, YSRC

New 2026 Uniforms

A proud moment for YSRC as our Geraldton and Perth teams debut the new 2026 uniforms designed by Yamatji designers at WT Design Studio.

Yamatji Sea Country Indigenous Protected Area (SCIPA)

YSRC has officially commenced consultation with Members to explore the establishment of a Yamatji Sea Country Indigenous Protected Area.

Sea Country Indigenous Protected Areas are coastal and marine areas voluntarily managed by Traditional Owners to protect cultural, environmental and biodiversity values while supporting long term care for Country. These areas also create opportunities for ranger employment, cultural knowledge sharing and environmental management.

Over the next 12 to 18 months, YSRC will work closely with the four Cultural Committees, Members and stakeholders through workshops, meetings and consultation activities to gather feedback and guide future planning.

A Yamatji SCIPA Committee will also be formed, bringing together representatives from the Cultural Committees along with government agencies and stakeholders to support development of a future management plan.

This consultation process is an important opportunity for Members to help shape how Yamatji Sea Country is cared for into the future, ensuring cultural knowledge and community priorities remain at the centre of decision making.

Yamatji Rangers On Country

Environmental Monitoring Programs

Our Yamatji Rangers recently returned from an incredible week on the Southern Pelsaert Islands, working alongside DBCA and BCMI on important conservation and biodiversity activities.

Starting with an early departure from Geraldton, the team spent five days on Country carrying out hands on fieldwork across Gun and Middle Islands. Activities included lizard monitoring, environmental data collection, marine debris clean ups, eDNA sampling, and a trial mouse eradication program to better understand the impacts invasive species are having on native wildlife populations.

Throughout the week, Rangers worked in challenging conditions and extreme heat while setting up transects, checking traps, collecting species data, and monitoring important habitats. Several native species were recorded including spiny tailed skinks, king skinks and other island reptiles that play an important role in the ecosystem.

The trip also delivered some unforgettable moments, including sightings of shovelnose sharks near Middle Island, seals playing in the shallows and coral spawning events. These experiences are a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting these fragile environments for future generations.

This work supports future conservation planning and ongoing environmental monitoring programs aimed at improving biodiversity and strengthening the health of Sea Country. It is a great example of Yamatji Rangers combining cultural knowledge, science and teamwork to care for Country.

Seed Collection Caring For Country

YSRC Rangers recently partnered with NACC and the Western Mulga crew for a successful week of native seed collection across Geraldton and surrounding areas including Byne Park, East Yuna and the Chapman River.

This work plays an important role in restoring and protecting Country. While some native plants rely on fire and smoke for regeneration, increasingly intense fires can destroy natural seed banks and prevent healthy regrowth from occurring naturally.

By collecting and storing seeds, Rangers are helping protect native plant species and ensuring future restoration work can continue after fire and land disturbance. Seed collection also supports wildlife habitats, strengthens biodiversity and helps Country recover and thrive long term.

Over the week, a wide range of native species were collected including banksia, melaleuca, hakea and eucalyptus varieties. These seeds will contribute to future revegetation and environmental restoration projects across the region.

This project highlights the importance of proactive land management and demonstrates how Rangers continue to play a key role in caring for Country through practical, on ground environmental work.

💦 Yamatji Water Update

Twin Hills Groundwater Investigation

Yamatji Water continues to make strong progress on the Twin Hills Groundwater Investigation, with recent on Country activities marking another important milestone for the project.

In early March, a cultural heritage survey was completed in partnership with heritage representatives and specialists ahead of proposed exploration drilling works. This process ensures all activities are undertaken respectfully and in accordance with cultural protocols while identifying and protecting culturally significant areas.

The investigation aims to confirm the viability of groundwater resources within the Twin Hills sub region, identified as an important area for future water supply opportunities. Planning and site inspections have already been completed, with efforts focused on minimising environmental impacts by using existing tracks and previously cleared areas where possible.

With the heritage survey now complete, the project will move into approvals and the mobilisation of exploratory drilling works in the coming months. This work will help assess groundwater quality, aquifer characteristics and future water opportunities for the region.

Five Year Contract Secured

Yamatji Water has secured a major five year contract with the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation to deliver water monitoring, sampling and hydrogeological services across Western Australia.

This exciting achievement builds on Yamatji Water’s previous two year monitoring contract and represents an important step forward in creating long term employment and training opportunities for Yamatji people.

The contract strengthens Yamatji Water’s position as a trusted Aboriginal business delivering high quality environmental services while building capability and skilled careers on Country. The work will include groundwater monitoring, field sampling and environmental data collection across a range of projects and locations.

Yamatji Water Chair Jarrad Oakley Nicholls said the contract represents more than just service delivery.

“This contract is about building capability on Country and creating meaningful skilled employment opportunities for Yamatji people while caring for our water and environment.”

This outcome reflects the hard work and professionalism of the Yamatji Water team and highlights the continued growth of YSRC’s business operations and service delivery across the region.

Celebrating Success Vilma Hodder

We are incredibly proud to celebrate Vilma Hodder being named 2025 Mid West TAFE Trainee of the Year.

Vilma’s dedication, professionalism and commitment to learning continue to make a strong impact across her team and the wider community. Through her role with Yamatji Water, Vilma supports important water monitoring programs that contribute to sustainable water management across the Mid West region.

Her positive attitude, strong work ethic and willingness to learn have seen her become a valued member of the team and a fantastic role model for future trainees.

Vilma is also now a finalist in the WA Training Awards for WA Trainee of the Year. This is an outstanding achievement, and we wish her every success moving forward.

💦 Welcome to the Yamatji Water Team💦

We are proud to welcome three new team members to Yamatji Water, strengthening our workforce and supporting the next generation of environmental leaders caring for Country.

L-R Shonette Mongoo, Cody Farrell and Dakira Mongoo

Shonette Mongoo Trainee Water Monitor

Shonette is a proud Yamatji woman with Banjima and Yamatji heritage and strong ties to Yalgoo, Murgoo Station and Ngarluma Country.

As a Trainee Water Monitor, she is building skills in groundwater and surface water monitoring, field sampling and environmental reporting while combining cultural knowledge with environmental science to help care for Country.

Cody Farrell Water Monitoring Technician

Cody joins Yamatji Water bringing strong experience in conservation, land management and working with Aboriginal organisations.
His role includes water monitoring, bore runs and field sampling across Yamatji Country.

Cody has experience working across national parks, marine compliance and heritage activities throughout the Gascoyne region and is passionate about caring for Country and supporting Traditional Owners through his work.

Dakira Mongoo Trainee Water Monitor

Dakira is a proud Yamatji woman with strong cultural connections across Yamatji and Banjima Country.

Recently graduating from high school, Dakira brings enthusiasm and curiosity to her traineeship and is gaining hands on experience in water monitoring and environmental data collection while strengthening her connection to Country and community.

Lands Team Leadership Achievement

YSRC is proud to share that Lands Manager Andrew Close has been awarded an Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) Not for Profit Scholarship.

The AICD Scholarship Program is highly regarded across Australia and supports emerging and existing leaders to strengthen their governance, leadership and strategic decision making skills within the not for profit sector.

Through this opportunity, Andrew will undertake nationally recognised governance training that will further build his knowledge and capability in leadership, governance responsibilities, organisational strategy and effective decision making. The scholarship will also provide valuable networking and professional development opportunities that will support both his personal growth and the continued growth of YSRC.

Andrew’s dedication to supporting Yamatji people, Country and community through his role within the Lands team continues to make a positive impact across the organisation. This scholarship is fantastic recognition of his commitment, professionalism and leadership potential.

Congratulations Andrew on this well deserved achievement.

Yamatji Business Support (YBS)

Yamatji Business Support continues to grow from strength to strength, recently reaching the milestone of supporting 109 Yamatji businesses across the region.

This achievement reflects the growing number of Yamatji people stepping into business ownership and building long term economic opportunities for themselves, their families and community.

Over recent months, supported businesses have continued to progress from start up stages into steady operations, with several securing new contracts, expanding their workforce and strengthening their governance and financial systems. Businesses are also successfully accessing grants and support funding to invest in equipment, training and future growth.

The YBS team continues to work closely with Members to provide tailored support across business planning, workforce pathways, grants, mentoring and development opportunities. Demand for the program remains strong, with appointments currently booked across the coming weeks.

Planning is also underway for future paid training opportunities specifically designed for supported Yamatji businesses, helping continue to build local skills, confidence and capability.

YBS remains focused on supporting strong, sustainable Aboriginal businesses and creating lasting economic outcomes for Yamatji people across the region.

Connecting You with Yamatji Businesses

Looking for a service provider or wanting to support a Yamatji owned business?

Visit the Yamatji Business Register via the YSRC website to connect with local Yamatji businesses across a range of industries and services.

YAMTJI BUSINESS REGISTER

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 websiteI Increased visibility with industry & government contacts IMarketing Support

If you’re interested, simply fill out the form online.

Business Support Application

Current Job Opportunities with YSRC

As the Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation continues to expand, so do the exciting career opportunities available across the organisation. YSRC is building a strong, innovative workforce dedicated to creating positive outcomes for community, culture and Country — and we are looking for passionate people to be part of the journey.

If you want to work within a progressive organisation that values inclusion, supports professional growth, and invests in developing skills and talent, now is the perfect time to join the YSRC team.

YSRC proudly promotes diversity and maintains a strong commitment to equal opportunity, ethical practice, workplace health and safety, and creating pathways for Yamatji people. We are committed to fostering a supportive workplace where employees feel valued, empowered and connected to meaningful work that makes a difference.

Current Vacancies

2026 General Manager On Country Services.png

2026 General Manager Heritage Services.png

Administration Officer to the Executive Team
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
General Manager – On Country Services
General Manager – Heritage Services
Heritage Finance and Administration Officer
Heritage Work Opportunities

Why Join YSRC?

Be part of a fast-growing organisation creating real impact across the region
Work alongside passionate teams committed to culture, community and Country
Enjoy a supportive and collaborative workplace culture
Grow your career through exciting projects and professional development opportunities
Help shape the future of Yamatji initiatives and programs

Your next opportunity could start here. Join a corporation that is growing with purpose and creating pathways for the future.

For full position details, including responsibilities, requirements and how to apply, please learn more below

Learn more

2026 YSRC NAIDOC Community Event

Planning has officially commenced for the 2026 YSRC NAIDOC Community Event, with this year’s celebration set for Saturday October 24th 2026 from 4:30pm on the Geraldton Foreshore.

Following the huge success of previous years, this iconic event continues to grow, attracting thousands of attendees and showcasing Yamatji culture through storytelling, performances, food, art and entertainment.

YSRC is now inviting expressions of interest from performers, stallholders, volunteers and sponsors wanting to be part of this year’s event.

Sponsorship opportunities are also now open, providing businesses and organisations the chance to support one of the region’s most recognised community celebrations while connecting directly with the wider community.

If you missed last year’s event, relive the magic and check out the 2025 YSRC NAIDOC Drone Show below.

Featuring the powerful Bimarra Dreamtime story narrated by Donna Ronan in language, the drone show was a truly moving celebration of culture, storytelling and community connection. Experience the incredible atmosphere and see why this iconic event continues to capture the hearts of thousands across the region year after year.

Email event Expressions of interest

2026 YSRC NAIDOC Community Sponsorship Packages

YSRC NAIDOC Partnership Agreement Form