Ganalanga Mindibirrina, Northern Territory (NT), IPA Feral Animal Management Survey 2026

The NLC has funding to deliver a large feral herbivore and feral pig survey across the Ganalanga Mindibirrina IPA. Sitting adjacent to the renowned Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park the Ganalanga-Mindibirrina IPA protects more than 1 million hectares of high conservation and cultural heritage significance. This includes approximately half of the China Wall massif, a major biogeographic feature within the southern Gulf of Carpentaria and conservation hotspot of national significance. It is roughly 500kms from Borroloola, the closest service to the IPA is the Hells Gate Roadhouse. The IPA is owned by the Waanyi Garawa people.

The NLC is proposing that two aerial surveys be undertaken across the IPA: one to count cattle and horses (both domestic and feral), and a second focused on feral pigs. These surveys will build on previous work completed on the IPA in 2018 and 2020. The findings will inform a management plan—required as a contract deliverable—setting out a long-term approach to reducing feral pig numbers across the IPA.

Management of cattle and horses presents additional considerations, as these animals hold cultural significance for Traditional Owners. Any future planning will need to recognize and respect these values alongside land management objectives.

The surveys are proposed for late May to early June 2026 and will be conducted by helicopter. The survey team is expected to operate out of Hells Gate Roadhouse for the duration of the work. Close collaboration with Traditional Owners, ranger groups and NLC staff will be essential, and strong on-ground knowledge of the country will be highly regarded.