Bar Burrum People have a new beginning

The Bar Burrum (Mbarbaram) People of the Atherton Tablelands and surrounds have welcomed the opportunity for their young people to “stay on Country”, finish schooling and find jobs following a Federal Court decision that recognises them as the traditional owners of their land.

Minister for State Development and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham said the native title decision, made during a Federal Court hearing in Dimbulah today, would give the Bar Burrum people control over their destiny.

“Future generations now have their rights protected,” he said. 

“As the recognised traditional owners, they will be able to pursue economic or cultural development on their very own soil, creating the potential for jobs and opportunities.” 

Bar Burrum Traditional Owner Glen Malthouse said today’s determination meant the Bar Burrum People were finally acknowledged as the native title holders of their country, covering about 198,951 hectares of land and waters on the Atherton Tablelands. 

“It is a tribute to the strength of our Elders, both past and present, and in the face of dispossession, forced removal and massacres we have managed to maintain our sacred connection to our country,” Mr Malthouse said. 

“Achieving native title is a reminder that our traditional ways of life and laws continue to guide us as Mbarbarum moving forward in contemporary Australia. 

“I hope that one day employment opportunities are created for Mbarbaram young people and they can stay on Country to complete schooling and participate in jobs,” he said. 

The determination area covers land in and around Dimbulah, Herberton, Irvinebank and Mount Garnett on the Atherton Tablelands and surrounds. 

“The determination recognises Bar Burrum People’s exclusive native title over parts of this land as well as their non-exclusive native title rights to access, hunt, fish and gather, conduct ceremonies and teach on the remainder of these lands,” Dr Lynham said. 

[ENDS] 10 June, 2016

Media contact:           John Austin     0428 139 481

Note editors/producers: maps of determination area:

• High res
• Low res