Noel Nannup has been a friend of the Swan and Canning rivers all his life. He is dedicated to teaching and sharing indigenous information about the rivers and the rich cultural heritage of his people. Noel is linked to the Swan River through his father, Charles William Nannup who was born near Mundaring Weir. 

Noel’s friendly and approachable personality saw him become the first Aboriginal Ranger in the State, at Yanchep National Park in 1978, he also worked at Nambung, Kalbarri, Geike Gorge and Millstream National Parks. This work inspired him to study Cultural Heritage in Canberra for two and a half years. Since then, Noel has worked as a community liaison officer and played an instrumental role in developing land management courses at Universities and TAFE colleges.

He has also played an active and leading role in reconciliation, believing that we can move into the future together by “looking ahead through the past.”  In 2007, Noel was appointed to the Swan River Trust board by the Environment Minister. He brought with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in indigenous land management and cultural issues.

His work has included the mapping of ancient Nyoongar dreaming trails. Noel hopes that one day these trails will become Cultural Corridors to be used by all Australians.