New chapter starts for Gulngay People in Far North Queensland

The traditional custodians of more than 70 hectares of land located in Tully and Hull heads had their ancient rights formally recognised today.

Resources Minister Scott Stewart said today’s ceremony, held in the coastal town of Hull Heads, recognised the Gulngay Peoples’ ownership of their land and their deep and historical connection with country.

“Today marks a significant milestone in the journey of the Gulngay people and their continued connection to country,” Mr Stewart said.

“Ownership of this land gives the Gulngay people the ability to manage the environmental and cultural values of the land whilst providing economic opportunities for present and future generations.

"This land transfer gives the Gulngay People inalienable freehold title on 28 parcels of land in Tully and Hull Heads, meaning it can never be sold so that future generations can continue to use and enjoy their traditional lands.

“These land transfers demonstrate the government’s ongoing commitment to recognising the rights, history and culture of our First Nations Peoples and the deep connection they continue to hold to the land and to their ancestors,” Mr Stewart said.

Since 2015, the Queensland Government has transferred approximately 500,000 hectares of land to the First Nations Peoples.

Local Gulngay man, Traditional Owner and Gulngay Kinjufile Aboriginal Corporation board member Clarence Kinjun said the parcels of land held strong connections to Gulngay history.

“These parcels of land are culturally significant to us as they hold our history, our names, our stories and our healing places, connecting us to our land,” Mr Kinjun said.

“This land transfer enables our people to help future generations keep connection to their culture and to their country.

“Using our knowledge and connection to country, we’re hoping to work with the local community to grow the region economically, and also educate people who visit the area.”

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Media contact:           Michael Saunders – 0428 411 617

Media note: Images are available at the Department of Resources Media Centre