WA’s Indigenous Desert Alliance ranger teams sole Australian nominees for Prince William’s Earthshot prize

A group of WA based Indigenous rangers have been named the only Australian finalists for Prince William’s Earthshot Prize.

The Indigenous Desert Alliance – made up of a group of about 70 indigenous ranger teams – were picked from a field of almost 700 nominations.

Its Right Way Desert Fire program combines Indigenous knowledge with modern approaches to reduce bushfire risk.

The Indigenous ranger teams use carefully timed ground and aerial burning to create a mosaic of vegetation at different stages of recovery.

This improves habitats for native species, lowers fuel loads and reduces the risk of vast, uncontrolled fires.

Alliance chief executive Samantha Murray a Yilka, Wongutha and Nyoongar woman said becoming an Earthshot Prize finalist would bring greater visibility to the group.

“IDA exists to serve desert mob and the rangers caring for Country every day, connecting their work across the desert,” Ms Murray said.

“The next few years are crucial with the increased impacts of climate change and an uncertain funding future.

“Being selected as an Earthshot Prize Finalist gives us a stronger platform to show why right-way fire, threatened-species work and knowledge passed from Elders to younger people must be supported and funded for the long term.

“That means stronger ranger teams, healthy Country and decisions about the desert staying in Indigenous hands. Deserts thrive best when Indigenous people are leading.”

IDA is one of 15 nominees competing for one of five prizes of $1.9m (AUD).

Earthshot founder Prince William said every year the finalists give him renewed optimism.

“They show us that, even as the environmental challenges remain urgent, extraordinary people around the world are already proving that progress is possible,” he added.