Meet the Roper River's newest Fisheries Inspectors
Date: Jul 26, 2022
Publication Type: Blog
Yugul Mangi Rangers Clarence Rogers and Julie Roy were appointed as Class I Fisheries Inspectors in June after completing the Certificate III in Fisheries Compliance.
The pair spent the day finalising their practical induction training at Tomato Island with staff from the NT Fisheries Marine Ranger Support unit before receiving their induction certificates and Inspector authority cards.
The Yugul Mangi Rangers regularly patrol along the Roper River near their base at Ngukurr, assisting with local monitoring and surveillance of coastal waters and providing a visual presence on the water. They play an important role in educating local and visiting fishers.
Clarry and Julie will now have the power to enforce fishing compliance by recording evidence, collecting details, asking to see licences and permits and inspecting fishing gear in use.
Julie is the second Indigenous female to be appointed as a Class I Fisheries Inspector in the NT.
“I’m so proud of myself for finally getting this. I started [as a ranger] way back in 2001.
“I hope to carry on and be a role model for the future kids, helping them learn on country,” said Julie.
The Yugul Mangi Rangers (L to R): Roger Thompson, Simon Ponto, Andrew Vocke (coordinator), Clarry Rogers, Bert Rami, Julie Roy, Jana Daniels.
Regional Program Manager Mike Carmody said he is pleased that there are now two NLC women rangers with Fisheries Inspector qualifications.
“This sends a message to everyone that women rangers can do all the jobs that male rangers can do. It speaks to their perseverance and consistent effort,” said Mr Carmody.
Clarry said his appointment as a Fisheries Inspector has given him a lot of hope for the future, and he is encouraging other Yugul Mangi Rangers to carry out the training as well.
“Three of them will be doing their Certificate III Fisheries Compliance course, then they will also become Class I Fisheries Inspectors, hopefully next year.
“Thanks to the support from the Northern Land Council, Fisheries, Water Police, my family and the Ranger group,” said Clarry.
NT Fisheries Marine Ranger Support Manager Simon Xuereb said the partnership between NT Fisheries and the Yugul Mangi Rangers will help to address concerns that Traditional Owners have been expressing for years.
“This is the opportunity to empower Aboriginal people under the Fisheries Act to not only assist themselves but also assist the department to maintain the sustainability of fish stocks,” said Mr Xuereb.