Fringed by the Indian Ocean at Broome’s popular Cable Beach is Minyirr Park. With 22 kilometres of colour coded walking trails, the park is a joint project between the Shire of Broome and its traditional owners represented by the Rubibi Land Heritage and Development Group.
The Park provides a unique opportunity to visit untouched coastal areas where Aboriginal custodians practice their care for country and cultural responsibilities. The diversity of habitats in Minyirr Park feature a range of native animals and plants.
“The Shire of Broome reached an interim agreement in 1996, leading to the first native title settlement entered into by a Local Government anywhere in Australia,” said CEO, Ian Bodill. “This set out broad principles of Indigenous and non Indigenous people working together and, in particular, the joint management of coastal areas.”
Minyirr Park has a committee of management comprising traditional owners and people nominated by the Shire. A number of grants have been obtained by the Committee for construction of the trails, interpretive signage, shelters, as well as weed management and construction works.
Grants, donations and the tireless work of volunteers have been vital to the development and maintenance of the Park. Aboriginal custodians provide guided cultural walks and excursions explaining the law, culture, rules and responsibilities that make it possible for people, animals, fish and birds to live together.
“For Aboriginal people looking after country – the environment – is first priority,” said Sharon Griffiths, Project Manager. “Minyirr, our birthplace, is as spiritually important to our people as Jerusalem or Mecca is to other cultures. The Park is designed to maintain the integrity of these spiritual places and to keep traditions alive. It provides a place for all people, from all cultural backgrounds, to come and enjoy the peaceful quiet and freedom of our natural and cultural environment.”
