Indigenous Advisory Committee

The Indigenous Advisory Committee (IAC) was established to ensure that the rights, interests, and priorities of Rainforest Aboriginal Peoples are meaningfully embedded in the strategic delivery of plans, policies, and programs by the Wet Tropics Management Authority and Terrain NRM. As a skills-based committee, the IAC provides culturally informed advice and guidance. Its members bring expertise in cultural heritage, natural resource management, and community development, working collaboratively to foster sustainable outcomes for the Wet Tropics biocultural region.

Expressions of Interest are currently open for additional Rainforest Aboriginal Peoples to join this skills-based committee. For further information or to obtain an application package, please contact Alicia Haines, Principal Project Officer, at alicia.haines@wtma.qld.gov.au or 0448 592 683.

2024-2027 Indigenous Advisory Committee

Chrissy Grant, Co-Chair of the Indigenous Advisory Committee

Wet Tropics Management Authority Board Chair

Chrissy Grant is an Eastern Kuku Yalanji woman with extensive national and international expertise in World Heritage, Indigenous Peoples’ rights, natural and cultural management, and biological diversity. She brings a wealth of experience to the Indigenous Advisory Committee, drawing from her leadership roles and advocacy work. Chrissy is the Chairperson and a Foundation Member of UNESCO’s International Indigenous Forum on World Heritage, where she champions the integration of Indigenous perspectives in global heritage management. Her deep cultural knowledge and commitment to sustainable practices make her a valuable voice for Rainforest Aboriginal Peoples in the Wet Tropics region.

Barry Hunter, Co-Chair of the Indigenous Advisory Committee

Terrain NRM Board Chair

Barry Hunter is a descendant of the Djabugay-speaking people of the Cairns hinterland, bringing over 30 years of experience in Aboriginal affairs, particularly in cultural and natural resource management. With a Bachelor of Applied Science, Barry’s career spans diverse sectors, including government, the mining and exploration industry, and not-for-profit. He has also provided consultancy expertise in Aboriginal land management, the carbon industry, and community economic development. Barry’s extensive knowledge and multidisciplinary experience make him a strong advocate for Rainforest Aboriginal Peoples and their sustainable management of the Wet Tropics biocultural region.

Lynese Hari

Lynese Hari, a proud Gunggandji–Eastern Kuku Yalanji woman from Yarrabah, is a dedicated Rainforest Aboriginal leader committed to protecting Country, cultural knowledge, and community wellbeing. With extensive experience in governance, environmental management, and community leadership, Lynese is passionate about embedding Aboriginal voices in decision-making processes. Currently serving as Executive Officer for the Gunggandji people, Lynese focuses on strengthening cultural authority, organisational development, and advocacy for Traditional Owner rights. She is also the Deputy Chair of the Gindaja Treatment and Healing Indigenous Corporation and a Director on the Jabu Mugay Yarrabah Leaders Forum (JMYLF) board, ensuring culturally safe services for Elders and communities. Lynese’s expertise in strategic planning, ethical governance, and cross-sector collaboration aligns with the IAC’s purpose of advancing self-determination and co-stewardship. Her leadership and cultural insight make her a valuable contributor to the IAC’s work in reflecting the aspirations of Rainforest Aboriginal Peoples.

Jennifer Joyce

Jennifer Joyce is a Mamu Native Title Holder with deep connections to her Country in and around Innisfail, particularly Wooroonoonan National Park. Raised with cultural knowledge of bush tucker and sacred places, Jennifer has built a career advocating for Rainforest Aboriginal Peoples. Currently a First Nations Engagement Officer with North Queensland Land Council, she supports native title claims, bridging communication between Traditional Owners, legal teams, and government. Jennifer has led collaborative projects such as the Koster’s Curse Task Force and pond apple removal, fostering partnerships and securing funding. Known for her strong communication skills, she ensures First Nations voices are heard and respected.

Dewayne Mundraby

Dewayne Mundraby is a Mandingalbay Yidinji Traditional Owner with deep connections to the Wet Tropics biocultural region, including native title determinations covering 70% of the World Heritage Area. With over 30 years of experience, Dewayne has been instrumental in advancing cultural preservation, environmental protection, and socio-economic development. He has led initiatives such as the Mandingalbay Eco Cultural Tourism Infrastructure Project, fostering partnerships, securing tenure, and creating employment opportunities. Dewayne’s expertise in strategic planning, Indigenous Ranger Programs, and cultural heritage ensures he provides culturally grounded advice. A skilled communicator, he champions inclusivity, transparency, and actionable outcomes for Rainforest Aboriginal Peoples.

Gavin Singleton

Gavin Singleton is a descendant of the Yirrganydji and Djabugay speaking people with deep cultural, familial, and professional connections to the Wet Tropics biocultural region. Gavin brings knowledge and experience in cultural and natural resource management, tourism, Indigenous business governance, and project management. His extensive experience spans advisory roles with the Wet Tropics Management Authority, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, Tropical Tourism North Queensland, and local councils, among others. Gavin has successfully coordinated and delivered projects such as the Yirrganydji Land and Sea Ranger Program, Cultural Fire Project, and Traditional Owner Water Quality Project, which all aimed at fostering collaboration, cultural education, and sustainable land management in the Wet Tropics region. Passionate about embedding First Nations values in policy, Gavin in a dedicated advocate for Rainforest Aboriginal Peoples.