Corporate Firearms and 4WD Recovery Training for KJ Rangers

KJ Rangers from Jigalong, Punmu, Parnngurr, and Kunawarritji communities were provided corporate firearms and 4WD recovery training by David and Angus, instructors from Morning Star Training at the White Gums camp.

Firearm Training

Under the guidance of experienced firearm safety instructor David, the rangers quickly felt at ease as they learned how to safely load, aim, and shoot firearms. Even those with little prior experience quickly felt comfortable handling and shooting the rifles. The rangers practised with both 308-calibre and 22-calibre rifles. Although both rifles were shot simultaneously, the 308s were noisier and had a bit of recoil.

The sand dune was strategically lined with targets, serving as a protective barrier to arrest the bullets' trajectory. Seasoned rangers took their initial shots, utilising .22 and .308 caliber rifles, while the less experienced rangers observed, embracing the opportunity to absorb the techniques and dynamics of the exercise. The resulting scores effectively showcased the rangers' shooting aptitude, reflecting their accuracy and skill in hitting their designated targets.

4WD Recovery Training

Rangers met with instructor Angus at the Kalkan-Kalkan river crossing, which offered exceptional 4WD recovery conditions, including a coarse, sandy riverbed and numerous puddles left over from a recent storm.

After Angus briefly explained the task and some simple tactics for freeing a bogged vehicle, the Rangers were ready to begin. The group's more experienced and senior members went first, successfully freeing the bogged Toyota one by one. Soon after, the younger rangers were also driving around, getting bogged and freeing themselves.

Senior rangers provided guidance and worked alongside younger rangers to guide them through each step. As the younger rangers felt more confident, the senior rangers took small groups to run through various scenarios and explore different approaches to removing vehicles from a bog. They explained how to execute different recovery techniques in both English and Martu wangka (language).

This training was highly effective for building trust, engagement, and facilitating learning. The Rangers could make corrections amongst themselves when something didn't work or was attempted inaccurately.

The training provided by Morning Star Training was a great success that left Martu Rangers feeling more confident and equipped with skills to help them care for Country.

📷: Rangers ready to fire at the shooting range; Sonja having a blast; sharpshooter Muuki; Angus from Morning Star Training explains the tasks; Joel starts to dig out the bogged 4WD; Angus and the rangers work together to remove a 4WD from a bog.