New Ranger vessel to help protect waters of Murujuga

A new purpose-built vessel, Nyamina, has been launched with support from Lotterywest and the WA State Government to strengthen cultural and environmental monitoring across the Murujuga Cultural Landscape.

The vessel launch in Dampier builds on Ranger capability, expanding access remote islands and Sea Country, ensuring the Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation (MAC) can meet its growing responsibilities following the World Heritage listing.

“This vessel will be a tremendous support for Ngarda-Ngarli in protecting the World Heritage values of the Murujuga Cultural Landscape for generations to come,” Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn said.

Deep cultural connection

“Nyamina not only enhances the Rangers’ ability to care for Country but also stands as a powerful symbol of the deep cultural connection to Murujuga’s land and sea.”

Nyamina is a custom-built 5.8-metre rigid-hulled inflatable boat designed to meet Ranger operational needs. Built by Western Australian-based Cordina Marine, the vessel features dugong-themed rubber flooring and striking artwork by MAC Ranger Jade Churnside, reflecting the deep cultural connection to Country.

The $595,000 vessel was jointly funded by Lotterywest and Woodside. The name Nyamina means ‘dugong’ in the Ngarluma, Mardudhunera, and Yindjibarndi languages, recognising an important and protected species found in Murujuga waters.

Following successful sea trials in Perth and Dampier, Nyaminais now ready to patrol the waters and islands of the Dampier Archipelago, supporting Murujuga Rangers and Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions in the joint management of Murujuga National Park.

Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation Chair Peter Hicks said the Corporation deeply appreciated the State Government’s funding for the vessel.

World Heritage-listed

“We also acknowledge and thank the vessel’s co-funder Woodside Energy, and the many organisations and individuals who contributed to the project – in particular, the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, which provided invaluable marine advice and support, and others who generously offered their time, sea hours for the Rangers and technical expertise,” he said.

“With the Murujuga Cultural Landscape now World Heritage-listed, it is more important than ever that Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation has the capability to access and care for the entire area, including the Burrup Peninsula, islands and Sea Country.”