ZEILA WALLACE

A descendant of Kuku Yalanji Warra and Guugu Yimidhirr Nation, I grew up in a small community called Wujal Wujal in Cape York, Far North Queensland. As a result of my Grandparents' connections to land and sea, I was raised with our Yalanji Culture and Traditions. Married with two beautiful children, I am very proud of them. I love spending time with my family on country fishing, camping, and catching up with friends. I am an Indigenous Artist who enjoys painting, it is very relaxing and calming. My art allows me to share my stories.

Throughout my career, I have played many different roles, one of which was being elected as the youngest female Indigenous Councillor for Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council in 2008. As a community builder, I enjoy working with our people to achieve positive outcomes. After moving to Cooktown in 2012, I began working for Yuku Baja Muliku Rangers as a Traditional Use of Marine Resource Agreements (TUMRA) Coordinator. In my time with YBM, I worked as a Junior Ranger Coordinator and a Ranger. My work in the social service sector has been very rewarding and meaningful to me for the last few years. As QIWRN Coordinator for Yuku Baja Muliku Rangers, I am extremely excited and looking forward to this new chapter in my career, including coordinating the QIWRN mentoring and leadership program.