Inside Queensland's wildest Ranger roles
- Issued
- 29 July 2025
From ancient rainforests to sparkling coral reefs, Queensland’s protected areas are watched over by a proud team of Rangers whose roles are as diverse as the environments and wildlife they help protect. No two days are the same, and no two Rangers are either. This World Ranger Day, we go behind the badge to meet the people working to conserve Queensland’s unique parks and wildlife.
Keedan's journey to caring for Country
Growing up in Sydney, Githabul man Keedan never imagined he’d one day be working among the dramatic ridgelines and rainforests of Main Range National Park, but after a life-changing experience with his mob’s Ranger group, Keedan found his calling; caring for Country and connecting people with its cultural and ecological stories.
Discover how Keedan’s first month on the job unfolded, what surprised him most, and why fire management is the next skill he’s eager to master.
Life on the water with marine park Ranger in Charge Troy
For Ranger in Charge Troy, a life on the water isn’t just a career — it’s a generational calling. With salt in his veins and a deep love for Moreton Bay, Troy turned a passion for the sea into a role that protects this marine park for the future.
Dive into Troy’s story to learn how a chance encounter with a Ranger vessel set him on a new course.
Ranger Tay’s journey is just getting started
While most kids dream of becoming astronauts, Ranger Tay set his sights on something a little closer to Earth; Queensland’s forests. After a chance encounter with a Ranger on a family holiday, Tay knew exactly what he wanted to be. Now, at just 19, he’s living that dream while patrolling bushland, managing pests, and protecting wildlife as a full-time terrestrial Ranger based in Maleny.
Ranger Tay’s story is a reminder that passion, dedication, and a willingness to learn can take you anywhere.
Inspiring the next generation with Education Ranger Kristen
At Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre, just a stone’s throw from Brisbane, visitors don’t just explore nature, they connect with it. Leading that experience is Education Ranger Kristen, who’s made it her mission to inspire curiosity, respect, and a lifelong passion for conservation.
From childhood dreams sparked by a red panda talk to her current role wearing the Herbie badge with pride, Kristen’s journey is a testament to the power of education in shaping future conservationists.
Chasing childhood dreams with Ranger Sophie
Destined to be a Ranger from a young age, Sophie’s journey began with childhood adventures—napping with frogs, fracturing her skull in Lamington National Park, and taking inspiration from TV’s iconic Ranger Stacey.
Today, Sophie is busy blending her love for nature, workplace cultural change, and teaching the next generation of Rangers what it’s all about. Sophie’s story is one of passion, resilience, and inspiring leadership.
Behind the badge with Compliance Senior Ranger Luke
As Queensland’s southwest parks beckon with adventure, Senior Ranger Luke is on the frontlines of protecting these breathtaking landscapes. Overseeing compliance across nearly 3 million hectares, Luke leads a team dedicated to ensuring visitors follow the rules that keep Girraween, Carnarvon, and other iconic national parks safe, accessible, and thriving for future generations.
Discover the challenges and rewards of enforcing park regulations through the eyes of Compliance Senior Ranger, Luke.
Wildlife Rangers and a world outside of parks
While many Rangers can be spotted working on park, Wildlife Rangers play a unique role in protecting native animals where people and wildlife collide. From tackling the billion-dollar illegal wildlife trade to rescuing injured animals, Wildlife Rangers are at the frontline of managing human-wildlife interactions
Everyone has a part to play in protecting Queensland’s native animals. Discover how Wildlife Rangers, like Chris and Jonathan, are safeguarding Queensland’s native animals and how you can too.