Mulgumpin (Moreton Island) land returns to Traditional Owners

Protected areas on Mulgumpin (Moreton Island) will be transferred back to Traditional Owners after the Palaszczuk Government today passed landmark legislation.

Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon said in recognition of the Quandamooka Peoples’ native title rights on Mulgumpin, the Palaszczuk Government would begin the formal process to return some 17,000 hectares of national and conservation parkland.

“The Quandamooka People have been custodians of Mulgumpin for thousands of years - protecting and managing the land for generations,” Ms Scanlon said.

“The passing of this legislation is about the ongoing recognition of Quandamooka connection to the land, returning rightful ownership to Traditional Owners and working with them to manage and promote new tourism opportunities for this national treasure. 

The transfer of national park ownership to the Quandamooka People as Aboriginal land will see it subsequently become jointly-managed areas between the Traditional Owners and Palaszczuk Government.

“It’s this government that set in motion Queensland’s Path to Treaty, is investing close to $1 billion to protect the environment and create jobs as part of our economic recovery, and is recognising native title rights over Mulgumpin.

“It means the Quandamooka People, government, residents and businesses will work hand-in-hand to protect, preserve and promote the cultural and natural resources, and tourism opportunities on Mulgumpin consistent with Indigenous traditions.

Ms Scanlon said under the changes to legislation, most of the island’s national park, Cape Moreton Conservation Park and some unallocated State land would be transferred.

That transfer will then set in motion steps to prepare the joint management of land.

“These joint management arrangements will give visitors unprecedented insight and appreciation into the area’s cultural significance and history from Traditional Owners.

“It will build on our $50 million investment to upgrade national parks across Queensland, including on Mulgumpin where we’re investing in a new ranger base, accommodation and workshops to support tourism operators and visitors.

“Already more than 23,000 camping and vehicle permits are issued on Mulgumpin each year – and this is about building on those visitation numbers to support jobs and support our economy.

“The Palaszczuk Government is driving Queensland’s economic recovery from COVID-19 and it’s important that we continue to promote the island’s economic values, and we will be doing that together with Traditional Owners – including supporting our important tourism industry and creating jobs - for the benefit of Queenslanders and visitors.”

ENDS

Media contact: Francis Dela Cruz - 0420 592 078