'Meet the Cultural Fire Practitioner' is an ongoing profile series that spotlights the people who are leading, teaching, and revitalising Cultural Fire practices in their communities. Each edition shares the personal stories, experiences, and cultural knowledge of practitioners who are working to care for Country and pass on traditions to the next generation. Through these interviews, we aim to honour their journeys, celebrate their contributions, and help others understand the importance of Cultural Fire in restoring balance to land, culture, and community.
In this edition, we’re honoured to share the story of Rheanne Sandy, a Cultural Fire Practitioner and Co-Founder of the Julnair Fire Team.
Rheanne walks proudly in the footsteps of her Yuggera and Wangerriburra ancestors, carrying forward deep knowledge, responsibility, and cultural strength as she works to restore balance to Country through Cultural Fire practice.
Rheanne’s journey began with what she describes as a calling - a return to something much bigger than herself. Today, she is a respected practitioner, mentor, and community connector, bringing heart, leadership, and cultural insight to every workshop, burn, and conversation.
Her reflections shine a light on the role of women in fire practice, the importance of listening to Country, and the powerful legacy of those who walked before us. Here, she shares not only how she came into this work, but what continues to inspire her - from the guidance of Elders and mentors, to rediscovering Country, to creating learning spaces for the next generation.
Name: Rheanne Sandy
Mob: Yuggera (Grandfather), Wangerriburra (Grandmother)
Totem: Waterhen & Red Belly Black Snake
Role: Cultural Fire Practitioner and Co-Founder of Julnair Fire Team
When did your journey with Cultural Fire begin?
I first learned about Cultural Fire in 2022 when the first South East QLD team began. My cousin owned a conservation business and asked if I’d like to join a mentoring program that was just beginning. It felt like an invitation to step into something much bigger - a calling back to Country.
What inspired you to start working with Living Knowledge Network?
The first workshop I went to was at the Bunya Mountains on Wakka Wakka Country. Vic Steffensen was there. During our first walk on the mountain, Victor encouraged myself and another female practitioner, Ivana, to go and light.
I couldn’t believe we were trusted so soon, but I could see we had Victor’s full confidence. Seeing that trust, and feeling the fire respond to us, showed me that I belonged in this space.
You're a female leader in a role that is mostly dominated by men - why are female fire practitioners so important?
Having women practitioners is important because they help keep balance. In our Culture, there aren’t really “male roles” or “female roles” in the way Western society sees them - everything is about balance.
We bring a different perspective, a different way of listening to the land.
In what ways do you feel your work with Cultural Fire connects you to your ancestors and the traditions of your mob?
Being able to walk on my own Country - places I have never walked before, but where my ancestors would have is deeply moving. You can feel their presence out there.
When I’m on Country, I reflect on how resourceful our ancestors were. We never took much. We managed the land so it would always replenish, always keeping the next generation in mind.
Doing this work makes me feel like I am part of that same cycle of care.
What do you enjoy most about working with Living Knowledge Network?
The connection to Country and community. Being able to see, touch, and walk Country, taste bush tucker - I’m always learning or teaching in a safe space.
I’ve been on workshops and met family members I may never have crossed paths with otherwise. Living Knowledge Network is an extension of family.
Tell me about the Brisbane Grammar project, and what this project means to you personally.
This project is incredibly close to my heart. Having a place on Country where I can learn and also teach our jarjums, family, and others is pretty special.
The ancestors were brewing something up on that Country long ago, waiting for us to reconnect. My mother had already made a connection with Brisbane Grammar long before I knew - teaching the children down by Lake Moogerah.
Now with Julnair Fire Team, our classroom is Country. Getting to share that with my jarjums (children) and show them that they belong on this land is everything to me.
I’m continuing a legacy I didn’t even know was being prepared for me.
What is one piece of advice you would give to young women interested in becoming Cultural Fire practitioners?
Get out there! The Country is waiting for you to come home to it. You will always feel empowered when you are standing on Country, with your ancestors at your back. Women need to feel that power more often.
Personal note from Rheanne: Thanks to all my mentors, from the young ones to my Elders, who have taught me and continue to teach me - much love.
Rheanne and her daughter, Kyara Livermore
