From coast to desert: Indigenous Rangers unite for cultural gathering

Hundreds of Indigenous Rangers are set to unite at an on-Country gathering next month to share ecological knowledge, cultural practices and approaches to land and sea management.

Hosted by the Tamworth Local Aboriginal Land Council (TLALC), the 2026 Ngarringilanha Ranger Gathering will be held from 21-25 September at Trelawney Station in Somerton, NSW on Kamilaroi/Gamilaroi/Gomeroi Country.

Proudly supported by the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC), the gathering is a unique event that celebrates the twin roles of ancient knowledge and modern science in caring for Country.

Over the four days, First Nations rangers will partake in a rich program of workshops, demonstrations, networking sessions and cultural activities.

This is the second annual gathering TLALC has hosted – the initial event in 2025 attracted over 150 rangers. This year, the event is expected to reach new heights, bringing in over 200 rangers from 28 communities from across the Country, including the Northern Territory, Cairns and the ACT. 

The event was inspired from the experiences of the TLALC Walaaybaa ranger team, whose on-Country exchanges with fellow rangers fostered meaningful learning and connection.

The gathering’s location nods to the longstanding partnership between ILSC and TLALC, which began eight years ago, when the ILSC handed back Trelawney Station on Kamilaroi/Gamilaroi/Gomeroi Country to Indigenous care and control.

Trelawney has long held significance for the Kamilaroi/Gomeroi people. 

Originally purchased in the 1980s, the 751-hectare property was transferred to the (then) Indigenous Land Corporation in 2005. 

Situated on prime cropping, cattle and sheep Country on the Peel River, the station supported cattle grazing and hosted a shearing school, providing valuable training and employment opportunities. 

By the time the property was divested from the ILSC, TLALC’s vision for Trelawney was well underway. The goal of purchasing new cattle yards, laneways and fencing were essential for the land to support more cattle – which it did. This was thanks to co-funding by both TLALC and the ILSC. 

Now, Trelawney Station is transforming into a thriving centre for cultural renewal, economic empowerment and community-led development, from hosting shearing schools, as well as larger events like their ranger gatherings.

Tamworth LALC Chair, Daisy Cutmore, said Trelawney Station was bringing Tamworth Local Aboriginal Land Council’s long-term vision for the property to life.

“TLALC’s vision for Trelawney is coming together following its divestment, delivering not only economic outcomes, but the cultural and social outcomes that Trelawney offers Tamworth LALC and our community. 

“Our longstanding partnership with the ILSC has been an important part of bringing that vision to life, and we value their continued support as Trelawney grows as a place for culture, community and opportunity. It is an ideal location to welcome rangers onto Country and create opportunities for valuable knowledge sharing,” said Ms Cutmore.

ILSC Group Chief Executive Officer, Joe Morrison, said after years of partnership, patience and persistence, TLALC’s vision for Trelawney is continuing to take shape.

“The ILSC invests in Indigenous peoples and their ambitions for Country, culture and community. We strive to be partners of change in all we do.

“Not only is TLALC is creating a productive, sustainable property, they are a powerful example of what community can achieve with the handback of Country.

“I have no doubt this year’s Ngarringilanha Ranger Gathering will highlight the dedication, knowledge and leadership of Indigenous rangers across Australia. It is fantastic to see the ILSC’s involvement with Trelawney Station continue, even after several years post-divestment,” said Mr Morrison. 

What is next for TLALC? 

A patch of Country is currently being monitored at Trelawney Station to examine the long-term benefits of cultural burning, while a ‘tiny forest’, complete with a yarning circle, will support TLALC’s junior ranger program. 

TLALC is looking to hold another ranger gathering next year in 2027. Interested ranger groups are encouraged to enquire further with TLALC directly.