After a 20-year career spanning ranger roles at Uluru, Kakadu and Nitmiluk national parks, Mr Davies is the new Katherine-based Gulf-Savannah district manager for Parks and Wildlife Commission NT.

“There are big environmental differences between the Top End and the Central Desert region, but in terms of what I do, it’s quite similar,” Mr Davies said.

“The biggest challenge is working with all the stakeholders – government agencies, mining and pastoral, agricultural, and the joint ownership with traditional owners.”

Despite the challenges, he said the beauty of the parks and reserves made the job worth it.

And his favourite place?

“That’s a tough one, but Bitter Springs in Elsey National Park is just breathtaking,” he said.