Newsletter : May - June 2025
Message from the CEO – Luka Gray
Dear Members,
It’s been a busy and rewarding few months across the Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation (YSRC), and I’m pleased to update you on the progress we’ve made together.
Since last year’s AGM, we’ve made strong progress on the governance reforms endorsed by members. These reforms are already improving how we work—bringing greater clarity, fairness, and accountability across the YSRC Group. I want to acknowledge everyone who has contributed to these changes and encourage members to read the updated documents now available on our website.
We’ve also launched our new Aboriginal Information Management (AIM) system, a tool built to support how we manage information across Membership, Heritage, Lands, and other key areas. AIM will make it easier for our teams to collaborate and deliver better services for our members and community.
There are also changes in our Heritage team. We welcome Dr Peta Straiton as our new Chief Heritage and Country Officer and thank Brooke O’Donnell for her leadership and dedication over the past two years. Brooke has helped build a strong foundation that will continue to grow under Peta’s leadership.
Across the organisation, our work continues to expand—from supporting Ranger projects and water monitoring, to developing partnerships that bring long-term opportunities for the Yamatji Nation. These efforts are grounded in respect for Country, Culture, and the voices of our community.
Thank you for your ongoing support. As always, I look forward to working with you as we continue to build a strong future for the Yamatji Nation.
Warm regards,
Luka Gray
CEO, YSRC
Governance Update
Since last year’s Annual General Meeting, Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation has been implementing the governance reforms approved by members, including the adoption of a new Constitution. These reforms have strengthened our governance framework by clarifying director roles and responsibilities, introducing term limits, enabling proxy voting, and improving fairness in how members are engaged and supported.
We have also made significant structural changes to our group entities. Yamatji Funds Management Limited (YFML) has been restructured to operate more independently. Yamatji Enterprises Limited (YEL) has updated its constitution to improve efficiency and clarity, and Bundi Yamatji Aboriginal Corporation (BYAC) has adopted new rules to meet legislative standards.
A new Group Governance Charter was adopted in May 2025 to guide all YSRC Group entities under one consistent framework. This Charter supports strong leadership, ethical conduct, and accountability across the group.
Recruitment for YFML Members will commence shortly, followed by the appointment of Directors to YFML and then YSRC. These processes will be overseen by the Nominations Committee, and further information will be shared with members as each stage progresses.
Finally, I’m pleased to let you know that all updated constitutions and governance documents are now available on our website. We encourage all members to read them.
Thank you for your continued support. These changes position YSRC to better serve the Yamatji Nation today and into the future.
Exciting News – New Perth Office Now Open!
Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation is proud to announce the opening of our new CBD metropolitan premises at:
📍 101 Edward Street, Perth WA 6000
This new space strengthens our ability to connect with government, industry, and key partners in Perth, while also creating a welcoming hub for Yamatji members living in the Perth and Peel regions. We encourage members to drop in, have a yarn, and connect with our team.
There’s plenty of free parking on site and we’d love to see you next time you’re in the area!
While our Geraldton office remains our operational base and cultural heart, the Perth office represents another step in expanding our presence and strengthening the voice of the Yamatji Nation across the State.
For more information or to arrange a visit, please contact our team.
Introducing the AIM System:
A New Chapter in Data Management
YSRC is pleased to launch the new AIM (Aboriginal Information Management) system - a custom-built platform powered by Microsoft Dynamics 365. AIM will support our work across Membership, Heritage, Lands, Rangers, Business Support and Stakeholder engagement by bringing all our data into one central, easy-to-use system. It’s designed to improve accuracy, save time, and make collaboration across teams much easier.
As YSRC’s work continues to grow, so does the need for a smarter way to manage our complex data. AIM streamlines reporting, improves day-to-day workflows, and provides a strong foundation for future growth. The first rollout includes tailored modules for Membership, Heritage Sites and Stakeholder management.
Developed in partnership with Indigenous Data Management (IDM), and supported by DPLH, AIM has been shaped by input from our staff and teams. Training is now underway, with more features to come as we continue building a system that works for us and the community we serve.
Heritage - Key Updates
Heritage Site Visit: Australian Garnet Mine
On 26 May, Brooke O’Donnell (Heritage Manager), Kyle Raina (Manager of Ranger Services), and Gabriel (GIS Project Coordinator) visited the Australian Garnet Mine near Lucky Bay with a representative from the Hutt River Cultural Group.
The visit focused on the site's proximity to culturally sensitive areas, environmental management, and potential future involvement of Rangers in land care activities.
Key highlights included:
Operational improvements in dust suppression and water usage.
Positive updates on employment outcomes for Yamatji community members.
Ongoing discussions about future engagement in seed collection and environmental works.
This visit reinforced the value of meaningful engagement and the importance of continued collaboration to ensure that both environmental and cultural values are protected.
Gabriel Kovesi, Kyle Raina, Marcius Brown, Brooke O’Donnell, and Barbara Stoeckel- Clayton
Heritage Site Visit: Shine Mine (Fenix Resources)
On 11–12 June, Brooke O’Donnell joined four Widi Cultural Representatives on a heritage monitoring visit to Shine Mine, hosted by Fenix Resources and environmental consultant Brad Goodlet.
The visit included:
A tour of mining operations with Reece Olney and Chris Gibbons.
Review of vibrational testing and updates to the Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP).
Identification and protection of culturally significant sites, including a rock shelter and gnamma hole.
This visit highlighted strong collaboration between Traditional Owners and the mining operator. It reflected best practice in cultural heritage stewardship—placing Yamatji voices at the centre of development decisions.
Leadership Transition – Welcome Peta & Farewell Brooke
We’re pleased to welcome Dr Peta Straiton as YSRC’s new Chief Heritage and Country Officer. Peta brings deep experience in cultural heritage protection, Indigenous engagement, and environmental planning. She joins YSRC with a strong commitment to ensuring Country and culture remain at the centre of all development and land use activity.
At the same time, we farewell Brooke O’Donnell, who has led the Heritage team with strength and compassion for the past two years. Brooke’s leadership helped build solid foundations that will continue under Peta’s guidance. Brooke is moving to the Pilbara to support the Wanparta Aboriginal Corporation and we thank her for her outstanding work.
Recruitment for a new Heritage Manager and Heritage Coordinator is underway. Interested applicants should watch Seek for upcoming advertisements.
Peta is a member of Australia’s two leading archaeological societies (AAA and AIMA), and in 2022, she completed an award-winning doctoral thesis in Archaeology and Tourism through Flinders University. While her work spans a wide range of archaeological disciplines, she specialises in maritime archaeology and the study of cultural landscapes.
“There’s nowhere I’d rather be than walking transects on the beach or mapping heritage on the sea floor,” Peta says.
Now stepping into her role at YSRC, Peta is focused on bringing her skills and insights to support and celebrate Yamatji stories, knowledge, and connection to Country.
“It’s a privilege to be part of this next chapter. I look forward to helping ensure Yamatji heritage continues to be protected, honoured, and shared for generations to come.”
Please join us in welcoming Peta to the team!
Heritage Participation: Get Involved
EOIs Now Open - YSRC invites interested individuals and Cultural Committee nominees to complete the Heritage Onboarding Forms to be considered for upcoming surveys and monitoring.
For more details visit: https://www.ysrc.com.au/heritage-obligations
Seasonal delays: Wet weather and fire conditions are impacting scheduling. Pre-nominated participants remain allocated. Thank you for your flexibility.
Weather-Related Scheduling Updates
Seasonal weather is causing some delays and cancellations of scheduled heritage works. Just like the bushfire season, wet conditions can impact safety and access to Country.
If you’re already nominated for a project, your allocation remains secure.
We’ll keep you updated with any changes.
Thank you for your continued flexibility and commitment to protecting our shared heritage.
Lands Team Update
Yamatji Land Estate Clean Energy Scoping Project
YSRC is celebrating the release of the Yamatji Land Estate Clean Energy Scoping Project. This collaborative effort between the Australian National University and YSRC aims to assess the renewable energy potential of the Yamatji Land Estate. The findings of the report reveal that parts of the Yamatji Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) area are among the best in Australia for clean energy development. This presents significant economic opportunities for the Yamatji Nation. Stay tuned for more news on this front!
More details about the Clean Energy Scoping Project Report please find in our documents online https://www.ysrc.com.au/documents
Irwin River Restoration Project
The Lands Team and Yamatji Rangers, along with staff and cultural representatives, have been working on a land restoration project along the Irwin River. This project is supported by representatives from the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (DPLH) and the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER). It's one of the first significant projects undertaken since the allocation of the Yamatji Land Estate under the Yamatji Nation ILUA.
Yamatji Ranger News
Introducing new Ranger Coordinator - Patrick Fogerty
We’re pleased to welcome Patrick Fogerty to the Yamatji Ranger team as our new Ranger Coordinator. Patrick brings a deep connection to Country through his Badimia and Naaguja heritage, along with strong ties to the Bibulman tribe in the southwest. With a lifelong passion for the natural world, his journey into this role feels like a natural calling.
A strong believer in lifelong learning, Patrick fills his weekends with reading, walking his dog, lifting weights, boxing, playing harmonica and guitar, and practicing Wing Chun. He’s motivated by curiosity, self-improvement, and the drive to be a role model.
“I’m a hunter-gatherer—I hunt information and gather knowledge,” he says. “If there’s a day I don’t learn something new, it feels like a wasted day.” With his grounded wisdom, cultural strength, and passion for teaching, Patrick is a welcome addition to the Yamatji Ranger family.
Welcome to the team, Patrick!
Building Skills in Fauna Handling
Our Yamatji Rangers recently took part in a hands-on Fauna Handling Training workshop delivered by Animal Ark, a licensed training provider endorsed by the DBCA Parks and Wildlife Service. Held at the NACC Enterprise Hub in Geraldton, the training offered practical learning in the safe and respectful handling of native animals.
The workshop covered key skills in wildlife identification, handling techniques, and animal welfare procedures—essential knowledge for Rangers working on Country. Rangers were also introduced to equipment and safety protocols used in fauna relocation and conservation work.
This valuable training supports ongoing professional development for our Rangers and strengthens their ability to care for and protect native wildlife across the Yamatji region.
The program was proudly supported through the Indigenous Advancement Strategy by the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet. YSRC thanks Animal Ark for their expert facilitation and NACC for hosting the event.
Photo 1: Kyiesha Ronan, Aboriginal Custodianship Project Officer NACC NRM
Photo 2: Thomas Pearse - Yamatji Ranger
Words of the week:
💦 Yamatji Water – Project Updates
Welcome Kirrili Weightman – Water Monitoring Supervisor
Yamatji Water is thrilled to welcome Kirrili Weightman to the team as our new Water Monitoring Supervisor.
After more than 25 years in Tom Price, Kirrili and her family recently made the sea-change to Geraldton — trading red dirt for coastline and settling into a new chapter of coastal life. Her children are enjoying their new schools and getting involved in local sports, while the whole family is embracing the new lifestyle.
Professionally, Kirrili brings a strong background as a Laboratory Technician, with hands-on experience in the mining and biomedical sectors, including over six years at Rio Tinto in Tom Price, as well as time spent in administrative roles within Local Government. Her broad skill set and easy-going, team-focused attitude make her a fantastic addition to our growing operations.
“I’m excited to be joining Yamatji Water and proud to contribute to an industry that is placing real value on First Nations voices, culture, and community,” she said.
Welcome to the team, Kirrili!
Yamatji Water Integrated Water Study – Phase One Complete!
Phase one of the Yamatji Nation Integrated Water Study is complete, identifying opportunities for long-term water security and economic growth. Results will be shared with community in July.
Monitoring Australian Vanadium
Water monitoring has begun at the proposed Australian Vanadium refinery site in Tenindewa. The program includes datalogger installations, trainee participation, and supervision by Dr Selva Marimuthu.
Supporting Lakelands Pastoral
Yamatji Water is assisting pastoralists in Eneabba with bore upgrades and a water licence application, creating more water monitoring opportunities on Country.
DUG Data Centre Partnership
YSRC and Yamatji Water are in discussions with DUG to establish a 1.5MW data centre near Geraldton. The project could expand to 6MW and offers future employment and economic benefits for Yamatji people.
Photo 1: Australian Vanadium Water Monitoring I Photo 2: DUG Visit I Photo 3 : Updated uniforms and vehicle artwork
Learn more at https://www.ysrc.com.au/country/yamatji-water
Joint Management Body – Caring for Country Together
The June 2025 meeting of the Yamatji Nation Joint Management Body (YNJMB) highlighted the growing strength of our joint management partnership with DBCA and the progress being made to care for Yamatji Country.
The meeting focused on proposed work programs for the 2025–2026 financial year, covering conservation, fire management, marine activities, and visitor infrastructure. Each program was shaped by Yamatji priorities and will be delivered collaboratively across key regions.
Fire Management
Plans were presented for prescribed burns and track maintenance across the Turquoise Coast and Murchison districts. These efforts aim to:
Reduce bushfire risks
Improve biodiversity outcomes
Ensure safer access for response crews
All fire operations are being carried out with cultural sensitivity, and Yamatji Rangers continue to receive specialised training in fire leadership and operations.
Conservation & Land Care
Conservation programs remain strong, with a focus on:
Monitoring and protecting threatened species
Managing feral animals including pigs, goats, and foxes
Responding to dieback and invasive species
Yamatji Rangers continue to lead site inspections, seed collection, and reserve maintenance, ensuring the ecological and cultural health of Country remains front and centre.
Visitor Services & Infrastructure
Updates included:
Erosion control and infrastructure repairs at Coalseam Conservation Park
Improved signage and access works underway at Karara Rangeland Park
These upgrades support both environmental care and safe, respectful access for visitors.
Marine Conservation
Marine protection plans are progressing, with:
Monitoring equipment ready for sea lion activity tracking
Resumption of previously delayed signage and marine monitoring
A new proposal to expand marine debris clean-up along the Yamatji coastline
Yamatji staff remain actively involved in marine operations and training, helping to lead efforts in preserving ocean ecosystems.
The YNJMB meeting reinforced a shared commitment to collaboration, cultural leadership, and long-term land and sea stewardship. With full support from the Joint Management Body, these programs are now moving forward—and community input remains vital in shaping the future of Yamatji-managed parks and waters.
JMB with DBCA and YSRC representatives
Yamatji Rangers Presentation
Yamatji Business Services
Join the Yamatji Business Register
Free Promotion | More Exposure | New Opportunities
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 and government contacts I Potential for featured stories on our social media platforms
If you’re interested, simply fill out the form online.
Check out the live business register below:
Job Opportunities
Yamatji Southern Regional Corporation continues to grow our workforce with new job opportunities. If you want to join a team that is innovative, inclusive, and invested in developing your skills and talent, see below vacancies open for applications.
FINANCE MANAGER
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST – YAMATJI FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED (YFML) MEMBERS
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST - HERITAGE WORK
PRODUCE PICKING WITH YAMATJI FRESH
For more details of job descriptions requirements for job positions including essential qualifications, licences and experience
Community Voices Needed - Share Your Experience on Mining Transitions
Community Research Opportunity
YSRC is supporting PhD researcher Amberley Laverick from UWA, who is exploring how mine transitions affect Mid West communities. She is inviting participants to share stories and perspectives through informal interviews in early July. If you're interested in contributing, contact Amberley on the below details:
E: amberley.laverick@research.uwa.edu.au | M: 0476 268 296
In Loving Memory of Abby Shiozaki
It is with deep sadness and heartfelt love that we honour the memory of our dear colleague and friend, Abby Shiozaki.
As we reflect on Abby’s remarkable life, there is an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the joy, warmth, and light she brought into the YSRC family. From the day she joined our team, her radiant spirit uplifted those around her, turning everyday moments into cherished memories. Her laughter, kindness, and endless positivity created a legacy that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Abby embraced her role as Cultural Administration Officer with enthusiasm and pride. Her commitment to learning about her culture, working alongside her family and Elders, and deepening her connection to Country was evident in everything she did. She approached every challenge with courage, joy, and the biggest smile—reminding us all to live with heart and humility, even in the face of life’s surprises, including the occasional creepy crawly.
The many moments of laughter, joy, and togetherness shared with Abby will remain treasured. Her presence brought people closer, and her spirit continues to be a guiding force—reminding us of the strength found in kindness, the power of connection, and the lasting impact one person can have on a community.
Abby is deeply loved, profoundly missed, and will forever hold a special place in the heart of YSRC.
If you have any questions or feedback for our team, we would love to hear from you so please reach out via our contact form.
🖤💛♥️