Dedicated in 2009, the Djelk Indigenous Protected Area (IPA) covers more than 670,000 hectares of land and sea country that stretches from the central Arnhem Land plateau to the Arafura Sea. The IPA includes biologically diverse landscapes and encompasses the land of 102 clans, representing at least 12 language groups, making the area rich in cultural heritage.
Marine turtles breed on Djelk's coastline and islands, seasonal floodplains provide a home to file snakes and saltwater crocodiles and the mangroves support species including the water mouse and mangrove monitor. Djelk's sandstone plateaus are thought to contain the richest variety of reptiles in the world, with 90 species recorded.
The Bawinanga Rangers represent the various language groups of the region and assist Traditional Owners with their land management needs. Bawinanga Rangers also work with a range of partners on patrolling the coastline, controlling weeds and feral animals, preventing damage to sacred sites and running Junior Ranger activities.
