This year we’re celebrating World Ranger Day (31 July) by highlighting some of our amazing people on nature’s frontline.

Read on to learn about Darren Barnes, a passionate ranger who earned a National Medal for his work during the 2009 Black Saturday fires. 

What’s your name, and where are you based?

I’m Darren Barnes, and I’m based at Yarra Ranges National Park, working out of Woori Yallock, Victoria.

Darren cosying up to one of Australia's memorable fauna. Photo credit: Parks Victoria.

How long have you worked for Parks Victoria, and how long have you been a Ranger?

I’ve been in government land management for over 17 years, starting as a Project Fire Fighter with the Department of Sustainability and Environment in 2008, joining Parks Victoria in 2011, and becoming a full-time ranger in 2013. While a Project Fire Fighter from 2008–2012, I completed my Certificate 4 in Conservation and Land Management at Swinburne to deepen my environmental expertise.

What made you want to become a Ranger?

Exploring Victoria’s wild places as a kid, I wanted a career protecting nature and cultural heritage while helping visitors enjoy our parks.

I also volunteered with the Victoria State Emergency Service (SES) for 10 years as an accredited Rescue Member – which sparked an ambition of being further involved with emergency response management.

What are three things you love about being a Ranger? 

• Preserving parks: Managing ecosystems and heritage at the Yarra Ranges National Park is fulfilling.
• Dynamic days: From maintenance to enforcement, every day brings variety.
• Visitor connection: Overseeing Upper Yarra Reservoir Park’s campground and seeing people enjoy nature is a joy.

A ranger can experience a wide variety of work, even jumping into a helicopter. Credit: Parks Victoria

What’s it really like to be a Ranger? Walk us through a typical day.

A ranger’s day is always varied and dependent on triaging priorities and planned works. I might start the day with administration or checking Upper Yarra Reservoir Park’s campground, managing contractors, machine operations with our truck and skid steer, or doing a patrol as an Advanced Authorised Officer with the Parks Victoria Trail Bike Enforcement Team to ensure compliance. I engage with stakeholders and stay ready for any urgent tasking that may occur, balancing hands-on work with protecting our natural assets.

What’s your favourite memory made in a National Park/part of your time at PV?

In 2010, after the Black Saturday fires, I installed the world’s most remote Leadbeater’s possum nest box near Mount Bullfight in Yarra Ranges, working alongside Zoos Victoria’s Dr Dan Harley, helping to save our endangered faunal emblem in a fire-hit area was unforgettable.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I dreamed of being a firefighter, inspired by serving communities. As a ranger, I’ve lived that passion, earning a National Medal for my work during the 2009 Black Saturday fires.

Darren standing bravely against fire-hit country, and smoke drenched skies. Credit: Parks Victoria.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not doing your Ranger job?

I hang out with family and friends, ride my Indian Scout Bobber through the Yarra Valley, and enjoy Australia’s national parks – rangers never stop adventuring!

What’s your favourite nature fun fact?

Leadbeater’s possums – Victoria’s faunal emblem – live in matriarchal communities led by a dominant breeding female, showcasing their strong social bonds in Yarra National Park.

What’s a piece advice you’d have for someone aspiring to become a Ranger?

Rangering is a fantastic lifestyle, but it demands adaptability. Be ready for challenges and flexible with locations—my first full-time role with Parks Victoria took me to the Southern Mallee area (Wyperfeld National Park) for a year before returning to Woori Yallock. Stay resilient, embrace the variety, and know you’re making a difference. 

World Ranger Day

Founded by the International Ranger Federation in 2007, World Ranger Day is internationally celebrated on 31 July. It's a day to celebrate the great work Rangers do and commemorates Rangers who are injured or killed in the line of duty.

Our rangers come from all walks of life, and their work is as diverse as the environments they manage. 
We’re proud of the work they do every day – partnering with Traditional Owners and local communities to care for iconic landscapes and make sure all Victorians can enjoy the outdoors. 

For more information on World Ranger Day, visit the International Ranger Federation’s website.