Ranger team gathers around new tractor to get safety tips from Damien McKechnie, GR8 Northern Ag.
The Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council Land and Sea Rangers have reason to celebrate as they recently took delivery of a brand-new Kubota L4600 tractor.
Senior Ranger Darby Horace expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It’s a great tractor, and we also got implements including a heavy-duty slasher, an auger for drilling postholes, and pallet forks so we can shift loads around safely.” This advanced equipment will prove instrumental in carrying out the Rangers’ duties both within the town and out on Country.
Senior Ranger Fitzroy Lawrence highlighted the versatility of the new tractor, explaining, “We’ll be able to do our work out at Oriners-Sefton, and we can also assist other Council crews here in the township. Once Rangers are invited back onto their traditional Country around Kowanyama, we will also be able to use the tractor on projects here on our own land.”
Recognising the significance of this development, Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council CEO Kevin Bell emphasised the commitment of Council to support the aspirations of Traditional Owners at Oriners-Sefton. He stated, “Council has invested in this new tractor, which will deliver excellent service for the community. In addition, we are committed to restoring and repairing the old Fiat tractor at Oriners. That machine was purchased by the community, and we are keen to see it back in service at Oriners as a permanent asset for Traditional Owners.”
To ensure the smooth integration of the new machinery into their operations, the Rangers received a comprehensive induction from Damien McKechnie of GR8 Northern Ag. Damien, who was visiting Kowanyama for the first time, commended the Ranger team for their keen interest and skill with the new machine.
During the induction, Damien provided the Rangers with valuable safety guidelines and essential maintenance tips. The team members took turns driving the tractor and familiarising themselves with its basic functions, such as the loader and 3-point hitch. Justin Dick, an experienced machinery driver, expressed his confidence in the new tractor, believing it will be a perfect fit for the tasks entrusted to the Ranger team.
The pride of the Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council Land and Sea Rangers was evident in the tractor’s branding, which prominently displayed the new Land and Sea Ranger logo, symbolising the heritage of the Kokoberra, Kokomenjena, and Kunjen people.
Equipped with a new Kubota L4600 tractor and a team of dedicated and skilled Rangers, the Kowanyama Aboriginal Shire Council Land and Sea Rangers are primed to fortify their conservation endeavours, ensuring more efficient protection of their cherished traditional lands. This significant addition enables them to continue their vital work, safeguarding the well-being of the Kowanyama community and preserving the natural landscape for future generations.