Historic lease handover of Mona Mona land a new chapter

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Minister Desley Boyle and Member for Barron River Steven Wettenhall today attended an historic celebration with the leasing of nearly 1,600 hectares of land to the people of Mona Mona.

Ms Boyle said the lease was a significant forward step for Indigenous land management in Queensland.

It also delivers on a Bligh Government election commitment in 2009 to re-examine the future land tenure of the reserve.

“Today’s ceremony is a milestone for not only the people of Mona Mona but for Indigenous land management rights in Queensland,” Ms Boyle said.

“The Bligh Government has listened to residents’ wishes about the future of this land and after negotiations with the people who have traditional and historical connections to Mona Mona, a 30-year Trustee Lease has been issued for the entire 1,600 hectare reserve,” she said.

“The lease effectively returns a place of spiritual significance to the people of Mona Mona.

“It is also a giant step forward for reconciliation as the aspirations of the Mona Mona people are being realised and their descendants will continue their strong connection to the land.”

The Trustee Lease was formally signed on behalf of the Queensland Government by Department of Communities Director-General Linda Apelt and the Directors of the Mona Mona Board.

Today’s celebrations were organised by the Mona Mona Bulmba Corporation, an organisation established by Mona Mona people.

Mr Wettenhall has worked tirelessly for the people of Mona Mona and brought their wishes for tenure over the land to the attention of Bligh Government.

Mr Wettenhall said the Mona Mona Bulmba Aboriginal Corporation would hold the lease and manage the land on behalf of members.

“The conditions of the lease were the subject of extensive consultation and negotiation with the people of Mona Mona to ensure it reflected the best interests of all parties,” he said.

“It was critical to ensure the lease conserved the social, cultural and environmental values and assets of the land.

“But most importantly, it protects Aboriginal people’s connection to the land which will ensure that Elders and youth will continue to maintain a sense of belonging with Mona Mona now and for generations to come.

“This outcome is the result of many years of hard work by the people of Mona Mona.

“We will continue to work closely with the custodians to support them into the future.”

The Mona Mona Land Reserve is the site of a former Seventh Day Adventist Aboriginal Mission which closed in 1962.

Media Contact: Minister Boyle's Office - Liam Ferney – 0428 199 933,

Mr Wettenhall – 0412 184 155