Capacity development for aerial feral pig control
Aims and overview
Training and capacity building are the foundation of Carpentaria Land Council Aboriginal Corporation’s (CLCAC) efforts to protect the fragile ecosystems of the Gulf of Carpentaria. CLCAC prioritises training for rangers to tackle environmental challenges effectively. An example is the fee-for-service Aerial Feral Pig Control Program, a critical initiative aimed at managing the invasive feral pig population that threatens the region's biodiversity.
Through targeted training programs, CLCAC rangers have increased expertise and demonstrated proficiency in delivering aerial shooting operations.
Feral pigs damage the region's ecosystems and biodiversity, uprooting vegetation, spreading weeds, and preying on native wildlife. CLCAC has undertaken rigorous efforts to manage feral animal populations (pigs and horses) through aerial shooting since 2012. Over 110,000 feral pigs and 18,000 feral horses have been removed, mitigating environmental degradation and safeguarding the cultural heritage of the Gulf of Carpentaria. Ranger Coordinator Desmond in particular has played a major role in this work and his proficiency has been widely recognised.
Activities and outcomes
CLCAC’s commitment to capacity building for rangers has had many positive outcomes. In April 2024, CLCAC was contracted by Aak Puul Nganatam (APN) Cape York to execute an aerial shooting operation targeting feral pigs in Blue Lagoon, Aurukun, Queensland. This marked the first instance of fee-for-service involving aerial feral animal control for the CLCAC rangers. Over six days, Desmond, in collaboration with Indigenous helicopter pilot Richard, conducted 10 flights covering 2,168 kilometres in nearly 29 hours, culminating in the control of 816 pigs.
Despite encountering challenges such as dense vegetation and an extended wet season, the team adeptly identified and targeted areas with higher pig concentrations.
Most Gangalidda and Garawa rangers have completed a Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management. This certification has solidified the ranger unit as the most skilled and capable team in the region, setting a high standard for conservation efforts.
Two rangers, Milmarja and Zac, have made substantial progress in their Certificate IV in Tropical Biosecurity, which will ensure they are prepared to tackle complex biosecurity challenges, safeguarding the region's biodiversity.
Ranger Coordinator Desmond is midway through a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, which will qualify him to provide certified training to other rangers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and capacity building within the ranger unit. This advancement not only strengthens the skills of individual rangers but also ensures the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of conservation efforts in the region.
Learning and next steps
The Aerial Feral Pig Control Program illustrates how targeted training can lead to substantial environmental benefits and professional growth, demonstrating the transformative potential of indigenous-led management initiatives.
Through ongoing investment in training, CLCAC continues to empower rangers, ensuring they remain at the forefront of environmental conservation in the Gulf of Carpentaria and beyond. Equipped with both traditional knowledge and modern conservation practices, these rangers will make an enduring contribution to a sustainable future for their communities and ecosystems.