An Indigenous leader explains how Yolgnu beliefs and traditions, ngapaki (western) practices, and Australia’s unique far north, all intersect to influence Aboriginal Rangers’ health and safety at work.
Ms Herdman introduces this video by providing a fascinating insight into the inseparable links between Yolngu people, culture and country. This sets the scene for the important work of the Dhimurru Rangers who manage the natural and cultural resources under their vast jurisdiction.
The Rangers’ work includes animal control, removing invasive weeds from the land, and working with equipment like chainsaws and forklifts – in very challenging environments and remote locations. While the work presents inherent safety risks, Ms Herdman shares how Dhimurru has established a culture of safety that searches for equilibrium between Yolngu tradition and ngapaki best practice.
Who is this seminar for?
This seminar is for Indigenous workers, communities and businesses, public sector organisations who engage with Indigenous organisations, small businesses whose staff manage risk on a regular basis, senior leadership who are responsible for organisational culture, workers in regional and remote workplaces, and workers in challenging environments.
About the presenters
Rarrtjiwuy Herdman is the Chairperson of the Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation and the Aboriginal liaison officer with the Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation in Nhulunbuy. She enjoys working in a bilingual environment with Yolngu and ngapaki staff, and sharing Yolngu knowledge and culture.
Additional resources
- Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation website
- Code of Practice: How to manage work health and safety risks
- indigenous.gov.au
- Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet Indigenous Affairs initiatives
- Reconciliation Australia
- Country needs people
- Ghost nets Australia
- North Australian Indigenous Land & Sea Management Alliance
SWA is not a regulator and cannot advise you about managing risks in your workplace. If you need help, please contact your state or territory work health and safety authority.