Authority training rangers to improve track experience

THE Kokoda Track Authority (KTA) is expanding its ranger team to better manage and maintain the region’s rich biodiversity and preserve its important cultural and military heritage, chief executive officer Julius Wargirai says.
“The KTA ranger capacity development project, supported by the Papua New Guinea-Australia partnership, will train 14 new rangers to join the six existing rangers,” he said.
Wargirai said the track’s management would be strengthened with quality training and manpower.
“Having more well-trained rangers will improve the track as a tourist destination and bring business opportunities to communities,” he said.
“The training programme is open to men and women who believe they have the education, skills and personal qualities to be a ranger.
“This will also be the first time for KTA to recruit women to take on the role of ranger.
“KTA is taking into account that gender equality is important.
“KTA rangers will have many different roles working on environmental protection, tourism promotion and military heritage management with the other Kokoda initiative partners such as the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority, Tourism Promotion Authority and the National Museum and Art Gallery.
“This makes for an interesting and exciting career.
“Some of their work is hands on – clearing vegetation, repairing the track and building footbridges – while other tasks are more strategic.”