Dreaming Story lives on in north west

An ancient Aboriginal Dreaming Story was at the heart of a modern-day court ruling in Brisbane this week.

The Yulluna People of north west Queensland had their native title extended by the Federal Court this week to almost 10,000 square kilometres.

Yulluna Elder and claim applicant member Uncle Brian Sullivan said the native title consent determination was a positive outcome for the Yulluna People.

“The Court ruling is very precious because the determination area near the town of Duchess forms part of an important Dreaming Story for the Yulluna People,” he said. 

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham said the determination recognised the Yulluna People’s non-exclusive rights to camp, hunt, fish, gather, protect, teach, conduct ceremonies and be buried on-country for generations to come.

“Indigenous Land Use Agreements and Consent Determinations play a critical role in maintaining the cultural and natural values of traditional lands and the Queensland Government is whole-heartedly committed to supporting these processes,” Dr Lynham said. 

“Preserving Indigenous culture and identity through native title determinations is a key step towards achieving more independence for traditional owners on their land.”

This week’s decision added a small area – just nine hectares – to earlier determination in 2014.

ENDS            

Media contact: JanMartin 0439 341 314

EDS: For a map of the area, visit the DNRM media centre