From the Ground Up
Dhimurru rangers' way of caring for Country
From the Ground Up is not just a way of working it is who we are.
At Dhimurru, our foundation is the moiety system. Dhuwa and Yirritja and the deep kinship ties that guide every decision we make. Like the roots of the trees that belong to each moiety, our values grow from Yolŋu law, ceremony, and relationship with wäŋa (Country). These roots keep us strong and balanced. They remind us of our place, our responsibilities, and our authority.
From the Ground Up is about building leadership from within. It’s about strengthening Dhimurru rangers to care for Country on their terms not through outside agendas, but through Yolŋu ways of seeing, doing, and knowing. It means making space for young rangers to learn through practice, guided by Elders, and supported by a team that holds respect, responsibility and balance at its core.
What guides us
Dhimurru rangers are led by Yolŋu rom (law), the power of gurrutu (kinship), and deep responsibility to wäŋa (Country).
These three elements – rom, gurrutu and wäŋa form the foundation of all decision-making, management, and daily ranger practice.
Guiding principles
Our three guiding values are:
Respect: We respect each other, our Elders, our land, and our roles.
Responsibility: We step up. We look after the things we are trusted with. We support the team.
Balance: We know when to lead and when to support. We keep our heads and hearts aligned with Yolŋu rom.
Planning with Country
At Dhimurru, we plan our work according to the Yolŋu seasonal cycle not a Balanda calendar.
Each season brings changes in weather, wildlife, and ceremony. It tells us what needs to be done, and when.
Our rangers follow these signs to know the right time for action, rest, and renewal.