Indigenous Grazing for Profit: Pathway into the pastoral industry
In northern Western Australia, a highly successful academy is helping young Aboriginal adults discover a bright future in the pastoral industry.
The Aboriginal Pastoral Academy (APA), a collaborative initiative between community and industry, is supported by the government through funding provided by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD). The APA’s mission is to create employment pathways for Aboriginal people in the northwest pastoral industry, aiming to empower individuals and communities through sustainable agriculture.
A key focus of the Academy is to engage and support young people entering the industry. Nyamba Buru Yawuru, a foundational partner of the Academy, runs an annual pre-employment training program. This program is instrumental in preparing young Aboriginal people for careers in the pastoral industry. The Kimberley Pilbara Cattlemen’s Association (KPCA) also plays a crucial role by helping to secure and support employment placements in the broader industry.
Recognising the importance of continuous professional development, the APA is dedicated to helping individuals progress from entry-level positions to roles of leadership and influence. In early April, the APA proudly coordinated and hosted the RCS Indigenous Grazing for Profit course. This 4-day workshop, held at the Frank Wise Institute in Kununurra, included a field trip to Newry Station.
The event attracted over 20 pastoralists and industry representatives from across the Kimberley region. The workshop was facilitated by Nic Kentish from RCS, along with Gina and Chongy Howard from HGH Contracting in the Northern Territory. Gina and Chongy shared their inspiring story of building a successful and sustainable Indigenous beef enterprise using the principles taught by RCS.
The workshop covered essential topics such as people management, business operations, land stewardship, and livestock care. Participants particularly appreciated the insights on the relationship between soil and grass, sustainable grazing practices, and business financial management. The overwhelming response from participants was a request for ongoing and further training opportunities.
The event also highlighted the diverse ways in which Aboriginal people are involved in the pastoral industry. Participants included senior station staff, business owners, and board members of Aboriginal corporations associated with pastoral leases or enterprises. Each group brought unique knowledge and requirements to the table.
The APA and partners are excited about the future and are committed to developing and delivering more training opportunities. These efforts aim to support the growth and success of Aboriginal people in the pastoral industry.
For more information about the Academy and its various activities, you can contact APA Coordinator at workforce@kpca.net.au. To stay updated, follow DPIRD on Facebook here.
