Kicking Up Dust with the Aboriginal Pastoral Academy

There’s something beautiful and timeless about working in the pastoral industry in the Kimberley. Dusty yards, chasing cattle, endless fences, plus the kind of sunrises and sunsets that make you forget about phone reception. What makes the industry and station lifestyle really tick is the people. Those that quickly become family and who are willing to roll up their sleeves, get on a horse or a bike and put in the hard yards together.

That’s where the Aboriginal Pastoral Academy (APA) comes in.

Run by Job Pathways in partnership with the Kimberley Pilbara Cattlemen’s Association, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Nyamba Buru Yawuru and local stations, the APA is more than just a training program to get Aboriginal people work ready. It’s a gateway into meaningful, long-term careers that are based on Country. Participants spend six weeks on station learning the essentials: stock handling, fencing, water management and teamwork. Plus, of course, the art of staying calm when 400 kilograms of bovine decides it doesn’t want to do what it’s told.

The Academy was created with a goal of creating the next generation of stockmen and women. The program does this by building confidence, communication and a sense of pride. It’s about preparing people not only for jobs, but for careers that keep them connected to land and community, while also opening doors across the wider pastoral industry. Graduates walk away with a Statement of Attainment, a swag (pun intended) of experience and a network of support that doesn’t disappear once the course wraps up.

The best part? It’s a win-win. Stations get motivated, work-ready staff who know the country and the culture better than anyone and participants get a fair go in an industry that needs fresh energy. We’re so excited to see the Aboriginal Pastoral Academy taking off! It’s proof that when you mix tradition with opportunity and a bit of Kimberley grit with some solid training, you can create pathways as strong as a well-built cattle yard.

If the station lifestyle sounds like it’s the life for you, reach out to your local Job Pathways office to join the APA. You must be 17 years old and registered as a job seeker.

This feature is proudly brought to you by Job Pathways.