'Meet the Network' is an ongoing profile series that centres the people we value and collaborate with across communities, projects, and practice. Each edition shares personal stories, lived experience, and knowledge that shape and strengthen this work.
These profiles aim to recognise the relationships that underpin our work, acknowledge contributions across the network, and provide a deeper understanding of the shared responsibility of caring for Country, culture, and community.
In this 'Meet the Network' profile, we hear from Wakka Wakka Ranger Tahlya 'Tilly' Gower, a next generation practitioner whose journey with Cultural Fire is just beginning. From her early years working on a cattle station in Western Queensland, to learning alongside Elders and neighbouring mob, Tilly is embracing every opportunity to grow her knowledge and responsibilities to Country – in spending time with Tilly, this determination is palpable.
As part of the Bunya Peoples' Aboriginal Corporation (BPAC) team, Tilly is involved in caring for important landscapes and supporting the cultural revitalisation of fire. Alongside ecological restoration projects she’s passionate about strengthening women’s business and creating pathways for future generations to connect with culture, community and Country.
Name: Tahlya Rose Gower aka Tilly
Mob: Wakka Wakka
Totem: Brush Tail Possum
Role: Cultural Fire Practitioner with BPAC
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your own connection to Country?
My connection to Country started as a young kid around 13 years old, working on a cattle station in Western Queensland. The Country, lifestyle and animals are harsh out there, but it's a beautiful and character building experience.
How did your journey with Cultural Fire begin?
For me, I'm right at the start of my journey and it's been absolutely life changing. From working with Elders to meeting my neighbouring tribes, the things I'm learning amaze me every day and I love that I still have so much to learn.
What does Cultural Fire mean to you personally?
Not only is it amazing to see our Country heal and come back to health and life, but it's amazing to see our people heal and grow as well. Cultural Fire is opening many doors for young adults, keeping the demand for responsibility on Country - and best of all it's creating a safe space for our people.
What are some key projects, or activities you're currently involved in with BPAC?
My crew and I have two main focuses going on for us at this point, whilst being involved in the community still. Project A is a massive 243-hectare Dry Rainforest reserve located on the Great Dividing Range in Toowoomba, Queensland. And priority B is focusing on revitalising women’s business, not only should our women be connecting with each other but we have our own responsibility on Country and it’s important to make sure our future girls have a clear structure and foundation to work from, that our Elders want us to pass on.
Asa a younger practitioner in the network, what perspective do you feel you bring to Cultural Fire?
As a young person it’s our job to always offer a fresh perspective. It’s very easy for us to get carried away sometimes because we're fast thinkers. Don’t worry, the Elders will tell you when to slow down. But the ability to be adaptive, think fast and have new ideas is what drives the world forward, making it a better place one bit at a time.
Can you share a memorable experience you've had on Country through your work?
One day Leeton (BPAC Senior Fire Practitioner) and I were walking on his Country at a work conference. While he was walking around in less than 15 minutes, he picked some wild berries that we ate for breakfast, he picked a leaf just to peel it and show me how to make rope, he then introduced me to all the native trees in the area. All in 15 minutes, I was shocked that this man could literally be left in the bush for a week and he would be fine. I learnt Country can look after you if you let it.
Have there been any important mentors, Elders, family members, or other practitioners that have influenced your journey?
I look up to my Uncle Rohan; he worked his whole life on Country and still does. From working with him when I was young, he taught me the importance of our Country and how it is our responsibility to protect and nurture it, if we do that, Country gives us everything we need and more.
What do you enjoy most about being part of BPAC and the wider Cultural Fire community?
My favourite thing so far is how much we're all on the same page about making a better future for the kids, no one is here for selfish reasons, we are all here to do our bit and share along the way. A family like this, will just keep getting bigger.
Is there a project, burn or community experience you've been involved in recently that has felt particularly meaningful?
On a visit to Bundjalung Country for work, we highlighted how all elements effect the fire, we even highlight how we are one of those elements is us well. It was a cool way to see how we all can contribute to something bigger than ourselves, knowing the fire will not burn as hot and beautiful without the right elements, or without us.
Tilly at work on Wakka Wakka Country. Credit: Tilly Gower
What gives you hope for the future of Cultural Fire and caring for Country?
Our connections. We are on the right path with fire on Country, kids on Country and Elders on Country, but making these connections and having these conversations is what’s really giving me hope that fire will stay on Country and its people will keep caring for it.
What advice would you give other young people who are interested in walking the path of Cultural Fire?
A time will come when, one day, you are needed and must take the lead. Our people need leaders right now and our Cultural Fire has a way of taking you to where you not only shine, but you get to use your full potential. So, you need to get out there, make those mistakes and source your connections.
When doors open, say yes. Not all are meant to be walked through but only then can you guarantee you’ve had every possible chance to be your best self.
