Yawuru patrol waters in Jangabarri

Named after an important food source for the Yawuru people, the Jangabarri will allow Yawuru rangers to care for marine conservation areas set aside as part of the group’s native title determination last year.

Meaning oyster-back stingray in Yawuru, the 5.8m vessel was christened by Environment Minister Bill Marmion last week.

The minister officially opened the ranger group’s new offices at Department of Environment and Conservation’s Herbert Street complex, where nine staff, including six Yawuru people, will be based.

“It will actually mean the Yawuru rangers with DEC staff will have a better opportunity to better preserve our pristine marine environment off Broome,” Mr Marmion said.

Professor Patrick Dodson helped christen the vessel and said it was another asset for the group to care for Yawuru country.

“It’s part of a system to encourage people to do the right thing when they’re on the water, when they’re in these areas,” he said.

“To do with safety, conservation and protection of cultural values that pertains to either the tidal zone or the sea.”

Professor Dodson said the boat would be used in accordance with the management plans that were currently being produced.

Through management by the department, Yawuru and Broome Shire, the group is currently preparing cultural, terrestrial and marine management plans to aid the development of visitor facilities in the area.

Mr Marmion also flagged the proposal for a marine park in Roebuck Bay, which was mooted by Premier Colin Barnett as part of the Kimberley Science and Conservation Strategy last year.

While funding was announced in the State Budget last week for two of the plan’s four marine parks, there were still issues with the park slated for Roebuck Bay.

It was unclear if the Bay’s extensive tidal mudflats would be included in the marine park.

Mr Marmion said the decision rested with Yawuru people and he would be guided by their suggestions on the matter.