DOCUMENTING CHANGE: DONNY IMBERLONG'S PASSION FOR KIMBERLEY CONSERVATION
Donyy Imberlong, Jaru man PC: Donny Imberlong/Facebook
BY ASAD KHAN
Donny Imberlong, a Jaru man and photographer, has dedicated his life to documenting the changing landscapes of the Kimberley region.
Inspired by a childhood gift from his grandparents, a small Canon pocket camera, Imberlong has honed his skills in photography over the past two decades, focusing on the intricate connections between the land and its ecological health.
“My grandparents always encouraged me to keep going, saying I had an eye for photography,
“I would take my camera on walks with them, capturing everything from insects to landscapes.” he said.
Recently, Imberlong was awarded the $5,000 Canon Oceania First Nations grant, which will help him acquire new equipment to further his conservation work.
Kununurra, Kimberley WA PC: Donny Imberlong/Facebook
“It feels good to have some of my work recognized. The grant will allow me to document my journey more effectively, especially as I plan to move back to our property near the Drysdale River next year,”
One of the central focuses of Imberlong’s work is the conservation of Cypress Pine trees, which he regards as vital indicators of the overall health of the Kimberley ecosystem.
“The landscapes are changing dramatically, and the Pines are quite fragile,”
He said they (Cypres Pine Trees) serve as a North Star for understanding the ecosystem's condition. If the Pines are struggling, the whole ecosystem is likely in trouble.”
Imberlong’s connection to the land is deeply rooted in his family’s history.
He said he recalls a significant conversation with his grandfather that sparked a deeper awareness of the environmental changes occurring over the years.
Kununurra, Kimberley WA PC: Donny Imberlong/Facebook
“We talked about the close to 300 Pines in a small area and why that is. Over the last 20 years, we've been implementing controlled burns, gathering data to replicate these efforts across the Kimberley.”
Through his photography and conservation initiatives, Imberlong aims to inspire future generations to engage in protecting their environment.
“It’s all about continuing the work my grandparents started and ensuring that our cultural heritage is preserved alongside the land,” he said.
As he embarks on this next chapter of his conservation journey, Imberlong’s work serves as a powerful reminder of the deep ties between Indigenous knowledge, environmental stewardship, and the ever-changing landscape of the Kimberley.
Listen to Ngaarda Media’s Lead Journalist, Asad Khan speak with Photographer Donny Imberlong: