QIWRN is not just another forum, it's a sisterhood

Zeila (right) with QIWRN Founder, Larissa Hale

Zeila Wallace works with the Yuku Baja Muliku Rangers, her work spans a variety of activities such as being a part of hosting Traditional Owner camps, teaching language to junior rangers, training in drones, quadbikes and 4WDs, doing cultural burns and seagrass monitoring. Her work spans a variety of activities that not only protect the environment but also preserve cultural heritage and empower the next generation. Now coordinating the Queensland Indigenous Women Rangers Network (QIWRN) forums, Zeila says:

All women rangers are important, they are passionate and driven, they are Champions.

Women bring diverse perspectives to conservation, often incorporating holistic approaches that consider the interconnectedness of ecosystems, communities, and cultures. Their unique insights can lead to innovative solutions and more sustainable practices.

Indigenous women rangers are unique in their own right. They have Traditional Knowledge passed down to them for many generations. Indigenous women have always been a caregiver to Country, family and to the next generation and it’s only right for them to continue.

Zeila (right) with daughter and junior ranger Zeikera

As a part of the QIWRN forums, women do presentations, showcasing the work they do on country. Just being in the room listing to their stories you can see and hear the love, dedication and passion that these women have for their Culture and caring for Country and its people. It's so inspiring and empowering to see and be a part of the Queensland Indigenous Women Rangers Network.

The women are always saying that "QIWRN is not just another forum, it’s a sisterhood".

Zeila (far right) with QIWRN women, from left to right: Mikayla, Laurissa, Chantel, Cindy Lou and Manuwuri

CONTEXT: “Country is land, sea, air, stars, rocks, plants and animals – all things living and non-living. She is our spirituality. Country is Us.” ~Healing Country Statement