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About us

WELCOME TO COUNTRY

THE RUSSELL RIVER CATCHMENT

Whole-of-catchment planning

We transform policy into effective on-ground action to improve catchment condition and water quality discharged to the Great Barrier Reef. Working within a modified landscape, we operate at the catchment scale – identifying opportunities for environmental restoration and engineered solutions.

Our approach

SMART MANAGEMENT

We take a strategic approach, creating frameworks and models to prioritise limited resources for cost-effective solutions. Our successes are inspiring other community groups towards a sustainability approach.

COLLABORATION

Our work unites farmers, scientists, traditional owners and the community in collaborative partnerships. We design and deliver projects using best-practice and with continuous development in mind.

INNOVATION

Our work leads the way in integrated solutions. We restore water quality, hydrology and habitat across the catchment through innovative water treatment systems and ecological restoration projects. 

Our values

LEADERSHIP

We are committed to making a difference. As a business owned and operated by a Wanjuru Elder of the Russell River catchment, we are a positive example of Aboriginal leadership.

IMPACT

We partner with government, corporate and other organisations to deliver financial solutions. In collaboration with our science partners, we are providing new methods to measure the impact of investment.

EMPOWERMENT

Our expertise supports local communities and landowners in developing and implementing practical solutions that will promote environmental and economic sustainability. 

Our team

LIZ OWEN

DENNIS AH-KEE

DENNIS

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Dennis has a background in catchment management, fisheries, aquaculture and Aboriginal labour market, education and training. Dennis is a Wanjuru Traditional Owner of the Russell River catchment that is part of the Yidinjii nation. ​ Dennis holds several official roles on Reef water quality, including: Reef Advisory Committee; Traditional Owner Technical Water Quality Working Group under the Reef 2050 Long-Term Sustainability Plan; Wet Tropics Wetland Alliance; and, Australian Coastal Restoration Network. Dennis previously represented the Australian Government in international forums, including: Network of Aquaculture Centers in the Asia-Pacific (Agricultural and Food Organisation, United Nations); Arafura and Timor Seas Experts Forum; and, Aboriginal Labour Markets and Government Policy (International Conference on Local Employment Initiatives). Dennis has extensive background in Aboriginal labour market and education policy and program development and delivery. Working as Senior Researcher on the Secretariat of the Committee of Review of Aboriginal Employment and Training Programs (Miller Report), Dennis conducted research and analysis of economic and social policy with regards to Aboriginal education, employment and training programs (Miller Report, 1985) and, subsequently, co-drafted the Cabinet Submissions and the Aboriginal Employment Development Policy that came into effect in 1986 (Commonwealth). As National Director of Aboriginal Post Schooling Strategies, Dennis drafted the Cabinet Submissions and National Aboriginal Education Policy (AEP) and negotiated 5-year strategic plans with Territory and State Governments and Aboriginal student support arrangements with the post-schooling institutions (TAFE, universities and other training providers).



Liz assimilates the specific knowledge and financial resources as an enabler for local leadership and on-ground action.

DENNIS

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Dennis has a background in catchment management, fisheries, aquaculture and Aboriginal labour market, education and training. Dennis is a Wanjuru Traditional Owner of the Russell River catchment that is part of the Yidinjii nation. ​ Dennis holds several official roles on Reef water quality, including: Reef Advisory Committee; Traditional Owner Technical Water Quality Working Group under the Reef 2050 Long-Term Sustainability Plan; Wet Tropics Wetland Alliance; and, Australian Coastal Restoration Network. Dennis previously represented the Australian Government in international forums, including: Network of Aquaculture Centers in the Asia-Pacific (Agricultural and Food Organisation, United Nations); Arafura and Timor Seas Experts Forum; and, Aboriginal Labour Markets and Government Policy (International Conference on Local Employment Initiatives). Dennis has extensive background in Aboriginal labour market and education policy and program development and delivery. Working as Senior Researcher on the Secretariat of the Committee of Review of Aboriginal Employment and Training Programs (Miller Report), Dennis conducted research and analysis of economic and social policy with regards to Aboriginal education, employment and training programs (Miller Report, 1985) and, subsequently, co-drafted the Cabinet Submissions and the Aboriginal Employment Development Policy that came into effect in 1986 (Commonwealth). As National Director of Aboriginal Post Schooling Strategies, Dennis drafted the Cabinet Submissions and National Aboriginal Education Policy (AEP) and negotiated 5-year strategic plans with Territory and State Governments and Aboriginal student support arrangements with the post-schooling institutions (TAFE, universities and other training providers).



Dennis uses two-way dialogue with policymakers and locals to create a bridge between Government objectives and local circumstances.

ENQUIRIES

+61 427 903 390

liz@jaragun.com.au

2/102 Munro Street  •  PO Box 219 Babinda QLD 4861

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ABN 41 120 661 583

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