Djarwyn ‘DJ’ Riley, a proud Wiradjuri man, is the newest addition to the Ginninderry Conservation Trust team, bringing deep cultural knowledge, passion for land management and genuine commitment to Caring for Country.

The Ginninderry Conservation Trust’s Caring for Country team plays a vital role in protecting and managing the 280 hectares of protected bushland that make Ginninderry special. Supported through the National Indigenous Australians Agency’s Indigenous Ranger Program, the team combines practical land management expertise with deep cultural knowledge and commitment to Country. Their work spans everything from maintaining tracks and managing vegetation, habitat restoration, and helping locals discover the environment on their doorstep. They ensure the Conservation Corridor thrives for generations to come whilst creating meaningful employment opportunities grounded in cultural values.

DJ’s role as a Caring for Country Ranger spotlights Indigenous leadership in land management, cultural connection to Country being lived and practised, and a commitment to restoring and protecting the ecosystems that make Ginninderry special.

“I love being outdoors, it’s unreal just to be out in nature. I feel grateful and lucky that this is our office every day!” DJ says.

DJ came to the role with practical skills; he’s completed a Certificate III in Civil Plant Operations and is now studying towards a Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management.

What excites DJ most is the opportunity to connect with younger generations. “It’s another way for me to tap into my culture and teach the younger generations. I’d like to be more involved with that in the future.”

DJ also loves the versatility of the Corridor when it comes to activities for locals and visitors. “There are so many tracks, for so many different abilities, kids or older people as well.”

So, what does a regular day in the life of DJ look like? Every day is different.

Land management activities include everything from maintaining tracks to keeping an eye on native wildlife, and helping locals discover the incredible environment in their own backyard. With hundreds of hectares of protected land, there’s always something to do.

For more information about the Ginninderry Conservation Corridor, guided walks, and conservation work happening on Country, visit the Ginninderry Conservation Trust at ginninderry.org or follow them on Instagram @ginninderrytrust.