Stephina Salee
Stephina Salee is the Executive Officer of Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation, leading one of Australia’s most respected Indigenous land and sea management organisations. A proud Indigenous woman, Stephina champions Yolŋu-led governance, cultural knowledge sovereignty, and innovative approaches to environmental stewardship across the Dhimurru Indigenous Protected Area in North-East Arnhem Land.
With a background spanning strategic governance, stakeholder negotiations, and program delivery, Stephina has strengthened Dhimurru’s cultural governance frameworks, expanded ranger capability, and secured long-term partnerships to support the organisation’s environmental, cultural, and economic sustainability. She has been instrumental in advancing collaborative research, enhancing cultural tourism opportunities, and building pathways for the next generation through initiatives such as the Junior Ranger Program.
Stephina is known for her ability to navigate complex political landscapes, protect Indigenous intellectual property, and amplify the voices of Traditional Owners on the national stage. Her leadership ensures that Dhimurru’s work remains grounded in Yolŋu values while achieving measurable environmental and community outcomes.
Abstracts this author is presenting: