Stronger together: GEBC and ranger groups deliver a successful year for gamba eradication

Published

Rangers from 27 Indigenous ranger groups contributed to this year’s survey and treatment effort across the Top End in collaboration with the Northern Land Council’s Gamba Eradication and Biodiversity Conservation (GEBC) Project.

Together, they recorded 1,103 new gamba sites and helped treat 672 infestations, highlighting not only the scale of the challenges, but the continued dedication of ranger teams to protect over 18,000,000 hectares of Country.

Another key aspect of the project is the capacity-building of land managers, supported by the project.

More than 200 participants have already taken part in upskilling opportunities offered through the project, ranging from accredited training to hands-on workshops. This support is part of the project’s ongoing commitment to working alongside ranger groups and strengthening capability through both training and practical resources.

The GEBC is working closely with all project partners to assess their needs and operational capacity, ensuring they have the equipment and resources required to support gamba grass eradication efforts.

The equipment includes herbicide, spray units, personal protective equipment, and other essential field materials to support groups working across some of the most remote and challenging parts of the Territory.

For ranger teams that have already received equipment, it is helping them lead the charge against gamba grass, with the new gear helping to make on-ground work safer and more efficient.

The federally funded project, administered by the Australian Government's Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water alongside the Northern Land Council, continues to meet with additional ranger groups to understand their needs and identify where further support may be required.

With preparations now underway for the 2025–26 treatment and survey season, rangers remain at the heart of this work by leading local responses and protecting Country every step of the way.

More information

To learn more about the project, go to the Gamba Eradication and Biodiversity Conservation website.

Gamba grass treatment and training with the Gumurr Marthakal Rangers on Elcho Island. (Supplied: GEBC Project)

Share this page:

URL copied!