ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

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2025 Photography and Video Competition People's Choice Award

Indigenous.gov.au: connecting with First Nations Australians

2025 Photography and Video Competition People's Choice Award

Healthy Country, Healthy Waters, Healthy Communities Photo and Video Competition

The 2025 Healthy Country, Healthy Waters, Healthy Communities Photography and Video Competition was to showcase the unique work that Indigenous Ranger groups and IPA providers do in managing and protecting Australia’s natural and cultural heritage.

Indigenous Rangers use traditional knowledge and cultural practices, combined with Western science, to manage land, river and sea Country and deliver environmental, cultural, social and economic development outcomes.

Please rate the shortlisted entries below using the stars at the top of each photo and video. 1 star is the lowest rating, with 10 stars being the highest rating, and then submit your votes using the button at the bottom of the page.

 

People's Choice - photo category

Coastal Erosion is an issue in our Country, and lately the higher than usual tides have been unearthing ancient (formed 12,000 years ago) peat beds, the rangers in the photo are measuring the tree stumps (dated to 7,000 years old) which were once covered by white sandy beaches. There are over 100 tree stumps that were once a part of a wetland.

David Fell, Freddie Moses, and Chloe Accoom work side by side during the Umpila Biodiversity Study, supported through the Australian Government’s Indigenous Protected Areas Program. David, a respected scientist, kneels to compare plant samples and field notes while Freddie and Chloe observe closely, sharing their knowledge of local species and habitats. This quiet exchange captures the essence of two-way learning, where western science and Traditional Ecological Knowledge meet in the shade of Country. Freddie’s deep understanding of seasonal signs and plant use guides the study, while Chloe bridges generations by combining modern methods with cultural insight. Together they document species, record data, and deepen respect for the interconnectedness of all living things. This image shows how collaboration between Traditional Owners, Elders, and scientists strengthens both knowledge systems, ensuring Country is cared for with wisdom, respect, and heart.

Leaning out of the helicopter, Warddeken ranger Lindsay Whitehurst scans the landscape of the Yurlhmanj estate within the Warddeken Indigenous Protected Area (IPA). He is conducting an aerial cull specifically targeting pigs, as Warddeken’s successful Buffalo culls over the past decade have led to an increase in the more evasive feral pig. Below, patches of disturbed earth and dark wallows cut through the green vegetation — clear signs of Ngannabbarru (buffalo) and Bikbik (pig). From above, he can see both the scars of damage and the signs of recovery, while still searching for the culprit. This photo captured a moment of both reflection and responsibility for Lindsay — seeing the deep impact of feral animals on Country, and the ongoing work needed to heal and protect the ancient Kuwarrdewarrde (Stone Country, Arnhem Plateau).

Birdweek (locally known as Warawullu Week or Wedgetail Eagle Week) is a celebration of science and culture on Country: where the next generation of youth learn about two way science from elders and western scientists. This photo represents the enthusiasm of youth: to engage, to find, to learn about bird surveys on Country.

Manoah Nawilil, one of Warddeken Land Management’s Bininj aerial platform shooters and a senior feral mayh (wildlife) officer, steps out of a helicopter after a successful aerial culling mission. In September, Warddeken’s Mayh team, alongside NAILSMA and CDU, hosted rangers from across Arnhem Land to deliver the first level 3 unit in feral animal management designed specifically for First Nations ranger groups. Held at Markarlarl camp on Yurlhmanj Country, high up on the Arnhem plateau, the week-long training blended Indigenous knowledge with Western science, focusing on practical control methods and solutions to build tailored action plans for each group. During the final days, Manoah and the team put their strategies into action— targeting feral pigs to protect the health of Yurlhmanj and surrounding estates. This program marks a significant step in Indigenous rangers leading long-term feral animal management on Country.

Walaaybaa Rangers carried out a smoking ceremony for St Edwards Primary School in Tamworth during NAIDOC week. Here are Dheran and Karwin posing up for the camera prior to the ceremony. The importance of this photo to me is how it shows both of the boys characters in one picture. Professionalism with a touch of humor!

The ease demonstrated by these two young Bundjalung people as they gently moved fire through Country was at once, so peaceful and also enthralling to watch. The two didn't speak much from what I could tell. Their actions moved in tandem with each other, each one knowing what needed to be done - supporting the other through observation and also through a shared knowledge of Country - they held an energy and an understanding that surpassed words.
The afternoon light suspended the smoke in the air which enhanced their silhouettes, giving this image a sense of peace and tranquility.

High in the ironbark trees of Umpila Country, two Palm Cockatoos (Probosciger aterrimus) known locally as Ki-lla perch together in the morning light. Their striking red faces and tall crests catch the sun as they call across the woodland, a sound both ancient and commanding. Captured during the biodiversity study supported through the Australian Government’s Indigenous Protected Areas Program, this image reflects the strength and rarity of these magnificent birds, which are culturally significant to Traditional Owners as symbols of guardianship and spirit. Ki-lla are known for their unique drumming display, using sticks to beat rhythms on hollow trees, announcing territory and connection. For the Umpila Rangers, sighting them reaffirmed that this Country remains healthy and alive. The photograph celebrates not only a species of ecological importance but also one of deep cultural resonance, reminding us that to protect Country is to protect every song, story, and living heartbeat within it.

Warddeken Land Management rangers (Lindsay Whitehurst, Zacharia Namarnyilk and Arijay Nabarlambarl) wave goodbye to visiting rangers after a week of on-country learning and collaboration on feral animal management in Arnhem Land. Warddeken rangers hosted teams from Mimal, ASRAC and Yirralka to learn together and complete a Level 3 unit in feral animal management, delivered by CDU in collaboration with NAILSMA. Throughout the week, rangers shared knowledge and solutions—from the Stone Country to the Arafura Swamp. It was the first time rangers from across Arnhem Land had gathered to both complete a Level 3 unit and implement management solutions on-country, devising a work strategy for aerial culls on the Yurlhmanj estate. Strong bonds were formed, and everyone looks forward to continuing the path set by this week for more collaboration in indigenous feral animal management. Hence the title is Kaluk Nan (see you later), not Boh-Boh (good-bye)…

Entry of Mungalla Station, When I took the photo, I could see the old people standing between the trees.

For tens of thousands of years, Martu people have used waru (fire) to care for ngurra (Country). KJ Martu Ranger Terry Biljabu continues this practice, carrying out ground burning on Martu Country near the remote community of Kunawarritji (Well 33). Right-way waru burning helps prevent destructive wildfires, protecting ngurra and the life that depends on it. Without this practice, wildfires become larger and more intense, threatening plants, animals, cultural sites, and remote communities. Right-way burning also encourages the growth of bush foods, with the mosaic of fire scars creating regrowth and sustaining the desert’s biodiversity. Yet this photo represents more than right-way waru management—it reflects the pride Martu hold in caring for Ngurra, the ninti (knowledge) passed down through countless generations that stands behind them, and the enduring strength of Martu people who continue to keep Country healthy—for the benefit of everyone.

Joanne has a passion for photography and took these photos while working as a Ranger on Balanggarra Country. Joanne was capturing the beauty of her Country while documenting her working day as a woman ranger for the Balanggarra rangers. Joanne enjoys sharing her photos with family, friends and senior Balanggarra People who don’t often have to opportunity to see their Country from a Rangers perspective.

This photo captures Freddie Moses, senior Umpila Traditional Owner, performing a smoking ceremony for Sharon Prior before the team began their work on Country as part of the biodiversity study supported through the Australian Government’s Indigenous Protected Areas Program. The ceremony represents cleansing, respect, and protection, an essential cultural practice that prepares both people and spirit for the journey ahead. The smoke drifts through the rainforest air, carrying ancient knowledge and connection. For Sharon, this moment symbolised deep gratitude and humility for being welcomed onto Umpila land; for Freddie, it was a continuation of cultural law and responsibility passed through generations. This exchange embodies the partnership between Traditional Owners and those who come to learn from them, reminding everyone that real research begins with ceremony, respect, and recognition of Country’s spirit.

This image captures the Umpila Rangers and partners travelling together on Country during the recent biodiversity study supported through the Australian Government’s Indigenous Protected Areas Program. Riding through the dry woodland landscape, the team, including Traditional Owners, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Rangers, and visiting specialists are seen discussing the day’s survey plans and sharing knowledge of the land. Freddie Moses, senior Umpila custodian, points toward an important cultural site, blending direction, story, and science in one moment. For many, this journey symbolised the partnership between Traditional Ecological Knowledge and modern conservation methods, with every stop revealing new insights about plants, animals, and habitat health. The trip also reinforced strong relationships between community, scientists, and park staff, built on respect and shared purpose. The dust rising behind the buggy reminds us that every track made on Country leaves a story, one of connection, stewardship, and collaboration for the future.

This photo was taken at the Gables on Butchulla Country for the release of "Layla" who had been ill and was rescued from Butchulla Country and spent 108 days in rehabilitation at Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital. As a djaa narawi Ranger and "Turtles in Trouble" volunteer it's a part of our deliverables to be involved with threatened species rescue and release on Butchulla Country. It's wonderful to see our sacred milbi's receive the best care when needed to ensure their rehabilitation which allows them to come back to Country and be released back home.

This photo is important because it is the first time I had seen a Gawandii (dolphin) since I was kid. The (Richmond) river has been sick for many years and we are now helping to care for her and all her creatures. The photo was taken at the Richmond River mouth in Bullinah (Ballina) NSW.

Joanne has a passion for photography and took these photos while working as a Ranger on Balanggarra Country. Joanne was capturing the beauty of her Country while documenting her working day as a woman ranger for the Balanggarra rangers. Joanne enjoys sharing her photos with family, friends and senior Balanggarra People who don’t often have to opportunity to see their Country from a Rangers perspective.

This photo captures a rare native orchid growing from a paperbark tree beside a towering termite mound on Umpila Country. Taken during the biodiversity study supported through the Australian Government’s Indigenous Protected Areas Program, it symbolises the delicate balance of life in Cape York’s dry woodland ecosystems, where every plant, insect, and tree plays its part. The orchid, known locally as a sign of healthy soil and seasonal change, Its fragile beauty against the strong termite mound mirrors the relationship between resilience and renewal found across Country. For the rangers and scientists, finding this orchid was a reminder of the land’s quiet wisdom, how even the smallest bloom holds story and significance. This image honours the connection between Traditional knowledge and scientific care, capturing a living example of Country’s strength and sensitivity side by side.

This photograph captures Jamilla Piva, Umpila Traditional Owner, walking beneath a canopy of ancient vines on Country during the biodiversity study supported through the Australian Government’s Indigenous Protected Areas Program. The vines twist and coil above her like living ropes, symbolic of the strong ties between people, place, and culture. Known locally as Kulap or Pii-aala, these vines are used traditionally for weaving and binding, but they also carry story reminders of how everything in the forest is interconnected. For Jamilla, this moment reflects pride and purpose, continuing the work of her ancestors while caring for Country in a modern ranger role. The photograph shows the harmony between cultural identity and environmental science, where learning flows both ways. Each vine, like each person in the team, has a role in supporting and strengthening the whole a visual metaphor for the resilience of Country and culture.

Manoah Nawilil and Zacharia Namarnyilk take to the skies to conduct targeted aerial culling of feral pigs on Yurlhmanj country, within the Warddeken IPA. Seated at the back and playing the role of spotter for this session is Zacharia, a senior djunkay (caretaker) for the Yurlhmanj estate. The operation was part of a week-long, on-ground training camp where rangers from four groups across Arnhem Land came together to complete a level 3 unit in feral animal control techniques, delivered by CDU. This was developed in collaboration with NAILSMA and is the first of its kind to offer formal certification tailored to the unique work of Indigenous rangers and recognises their long-standing efforts in tackling feral species management. Zacharia and Manoah have been leaders in this work over the last fifteen years and are proud to see healthy Country thriving through effective feral animal control on estates like Yurlhmanj.

These images are of our people caring for country in contemporary ways. From our female ranger team leader, to the youth we are carving a future for, we are proud to be learning about different plant species and how to clear and eliminate invasive species so that Country can thrive. I feel proud seeing our people learning new skills and seeing in real time how the land is responding to our efforts as birds and animals return to these areas.

This photo was taken during the Junior Ranger rockholes excursion in Ti Tree during the school holidays, attended by Traditional Owners and Rangers. Throughout the visit, cultural knowledge and scientific learning were shared with participants, helping them understand the significance of local rockholes. In this image, one participant is measuring the depth of a rockhole, one of the deeper ones in the area, while another records the measurement in the Junior Ranger booklet. The photo captures their genuine interest in learning about rockholes and the importance of maintaining and protecting them. It also highlights the teamwork, engagement, and developing skills of the young participants. Moments like this contribute to shaping their understanding of Country and fostering their potential as future Rangers in Ti Tree.

A previously unknown population of Black-flanked Rock Wallaby (Petrogale lateralis) was detected in the Nyangumarta Warrarn IPA for the first time in 2017. Since then, the Nyangumarta rangers have been exploring the many rocky outcrops dotting their Country in the Great Sandy Desert, mapping their presence and protecting the wallabies from feral predators such as cats and foxes. Initially very shy, the wallabies are now used to see their guardians regularly checking their wellbeing.
This photograph of a juvenile, Black-Flanked Rock Wallaby and one of the Nyangumarta Rangers was captured on Nyangumarta country in the beautiful Great Sandy Desert. The Rangers were conducting a week of feral cat trapping and shooting around threatened species habitat.

My daughter and I participated in a Wadja Indigenous Protected Area (IPA) camping trip on Country, undertaking cultural mapping of our significant sites, installing remote cameras to support IPA dedication efforts, through documenting threatening species, and surveying native plant communities.

William Munns IPA Cultural Adviser sharing the story of how our Wadja Ancestors passed through this Ochre Quarry on Wadja Country on their way to significant sites nearby. Through the lens, Wadja Man Richard Sporne has captured the magnificent rock appearing like a wave about to engulf William and pull him back towards its heart. The overwhelming essence of greatness and beauty compared to how small William appears, shows how we and our Ancestors before us, are only a small part of our great Wadja Country, Landscape and Culture.

I am the operations manager of the Walaaybaa Rangers and this photograph was taken during a Community NAIDOC Cultural Burn facilitated by the Walaaybaa Rangers on Bective TSR which is Gomeroi Country. This photo is of Senior Ranger Bareki Knox who was the lead Ranger for this burn. I just love this photo as for me it depicts Bareki as a protector and caretaker of the land and his fellow rangers, keeping a calm eye on everything.

George and Shaun undertaking a controlled burn on Mina Mina country.

I took this photo when we were doing whale and dolphin research with Dolphin Research Australia. It is important to me because it speaks to me, I feel a connection with it and the journey ahead. It was taken just off the coast from Lennox Head NSW.

This photo was taken out at Billen Cliffs which has multiple occupancy land sharing title. Billen Cliffs is home to an incredibly biodiverse ecosystem in the Northern Rivers of NSW on Bundjalung country. This burn was put on Country with the intention of maintaining, improving and caring for the species of both plants and animals that inhabit the land. The burn was also to demonstrate the gentle beauty of what Cultural Fire is to the community who live and maintain this land. Featured in this photograph is Kobi Stewart, a ranger with Jagun Alliance. He is captured here in a moment of serenity as he holds space in the smoke while the gentle flames creep through the landscape around him.

KJ Martu Wanti (Women) Ranger Tisharnee Taylor installs a sensor camera to monitor the endangered Northern Quoll, known to Martu as Wiminyji. Martu are the Traditional Owners of the Martu Native Title Determination area, spanning 13.6 million hectares—around twice the size of Tasmania—and including parts of the Great Sandy, Little Sandy, and Gibson Deserts, collectively known as the Western Desert. Through this vast Country, the KJ Martu Rangers continue to care for ngurra (Country) and protect six endangered and critically endangered species through ongoing monitoring, feral animal management, right-way waru (fire) practices, and by using Martu ninti (knowledge) alongside western science methods. Martu Country is home to 15 animal and 29 plant species of national and international significance. This photo represents more than conservation—it captures the strength and leadership of our Wanti Rangers, walking in two worlds, contributing to two-way science, and caring for ngurra just as their old people did for thousands of generations.

 

People's Choice - video category

Iningai Rangers sharing OnCountry experience and indigenous cultural land management practices with University researchers and environmental scientists, bringing together two world sciences and the marriage of Indigenous knowledge and environmental indicators with western science for emerging nature repairs and carbon farming opportunities.

The rangers conducted ecologically and culturally significant turtle research on Amburrkba, accompanied by Traditional Owner Freda Wurramarrba and her family. The research was special to all, with a number of traditional owners never having seen a turtle build her nest and lay her eggs. It was also very special as Freda had not been to the island in a long time, and she was able to share stories with her grandchildren. Ecologically, the research is important as it shows that the island is a very significant hawksbill turtle rookery and builds baseline data to understand how climate change may impact this activity.

This Djilba season, the Badgebup Junior Rangers have visited Piesse Park to create a video promoting on-Country learning, in partnership with our local ‘Friends of Piesse Park’. Our goal is to inspire the community to see our local environment through fresh eyes and recognise its cultural and ecological value to bring our commUNITY together . Focusing on the wetland area, we aim to raise awareness and appreciation for the land we belong and learn from and the Snake necked turtles and the biodiversity that is unique and in need to protect. By sharing our experiences through podcasts and videos, we hope to spread our message of environmental conservation and cultural connection. Our project highlights the historical significance of the area and its ongoing connection to neighbouring Noongar mobs. Like generations before us who passed down knowledge through stories, we hope our learning journey encourages others—young and old—to value these special places and get involved in protecting them for the future. We hope you enjoy our presentation. The BAC Junior Rangers.

Lirringkin also known as Wattle Seeds or Acacia Colei is one of the main native food sources that is a delicacy to the Karajarri people. Lirringkin is high in protein, fibre, antioxidants and healthy fats. When lirringkin is green, it can be used as soap when water is added but when its all dried out and the seeds start to reveal themselves, the seeds can be added to marinate or to even be mixed with baking beautiful breads and bicuits. The Lirringkin isnt just a plant, its a part of the living story of country, showing when to hunt, gather, and prepare for the next season.

This video was recorded out at the Tamworth Local Aboriginal Land Councils farm "Trelawney Station" prior to our Ranger Gathering back in June. We were working to get Trelawney ready for the gathering and we were getting some footage of that, this video wasn't planned, he just asked us to grab a guitar and we played for him. The video is important because I'm playing with my brother.

Wabarl (Malleefowl) are a key indicator species in the landscape of Australia. This vulnerable species is also important to many Traditional Owners. Rangers from the Mid West Aboriginal Ranger Program are monitoring the health of a malleefowl population by visiting the known malleefowl nesting mounds at this strategic site on Badimia Barna (Country). This week long activity on-country provides valuable data to the conservation of the species, supports the training and skill development of Rangers to undertake fauna monitoring, and provides a rewarding team activity. Filmed in the shire of Yalgoo this video demonstrates the work undertaken by NACC NRM and our Indigenous Ranger Program partners to care of Country.

Earlier this year we were shocked to witness widespread coral bleaching across Bardi Country. This is not something that I've seen in my 40 years of traveling across these reefs. This video is important because we are spreading the message of the impacts of climate change that we are seeing across our sea Country.

On Adnyamathanha/Kuyani Country at Witchelina Nature Reserve, our Year 7-12 First Nations students immersed themselves learning from Elders and rangers how care for Country flows through everything. We set up camera traps and surveyed native wildlife as part of restoring habitat and protecting water systems. Students removed old fencing, cooked kangaroo tails in a ground oven and witnessed the return of species to this arid landscape. Alongside cultural teachings about the importance of water, we learnt that healthy waters feed healthy Country and healthy communities. Every bit of scarce rain and water, every bird call recorded and every track found became part of our story of connecting young people to Country and culture. This video celebrates our hands on, respectful journey over the week showing how we can guard the waterways and life within them and future generations by working together, listening, learning and being on Country.

I believe this video is important to share because it captures the passion we have for caring for Country and revitalising our culture through meaningful work—connecting to land, sea, skies, and people. Filmed on Warulkawa (Deliverance Island), our Indigenous Protected Area, it documents our biodiversity efforts including flora and fauna surveys, revegetation monitoring, marine debris clean-up, turtle nest tracking, and invasive species assessments. My connection to this work is deeply rooted in ancestral stories, dancing, and singing, which continue to guide and strengthen our purpose.

 

This competition is co-sponsored by the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCEEW).