Junior Ranger Coordinators from across Queensland came together June 2025, in Cairns for the first statewide in-person workshop of its kind. The event strengthened relationships across the Junior Ranger network, connected coordinators with key partners, and created space to share practical tools and ideas for engaging young people in cultural and environmental stewardship.
Participants explored successful Junior Ranger activities, discussed youth leadership pathways, and collaborated on long term support strategies and professional development needs. With representation from Indigenous Ranger Groups, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority-Reef Guardian School, Queensland Parks and Wildlife (QPWS), Traditional Owner Groups, Elders and program partner organizations. The workshop highlighted the collective commitment to empowering the next Generation of Custodians.
A key outcome from the Reef Guardian Schools' involvement was supporting the Lama Lama Ranger Group to access a Turtle Activity Kit, helping them deliver locally relevant turtle education across their community and Sea Country. This collaboration reinforces the shared commitment to empowering young people as future custodians of Land and Sea. Furthermore, Rapid monitoring was introduced with many rangers taking up a training opportunity that occurred in August and September 2025. The data gathered will assist the Reef Authority management of the Marine Park.
Our Reef Guardian School community is proud to stand alongside these Land and Sea Rangers that empower young people to take action for the Great Barrier Reef and the environments they call home.