A hard fought battle has been resolved in Queensland, granting the Barada Barna people and Widi people official recognition as the traditional owners of their land.
Three native title decisions were made on June 29, covering almost 3233 square kilometres of land and waters southwest of Mackay and northwest of Rockhampton in the Bowen Basin. The determinations settle claims made in 2008 by the Barada Barna and in 2013 by the Widi people.
Isaac Regional Council hosted a day of honour and celebration in Moranbah on the day of the Federal Court decision.
Deputy Mayor Geoff Bethel said he was honoured by the invitation to speak at the event.
“Isaac has a long and close association with the Barada Barna People and Widi People and we respect their proud and historical connection to the land,” said the Deputy Mayor.
“As recognised traditional owners they can now develop cultural and economic opportunities on their own land, creating a strong future for their people.
“This milestone is a real cause for celebration, and a tangible step forward in closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.”
Barada Barna Traditional Owner Les Budby said the decision is an important step for his people.
“Recognition to my people gives a sense of pride and knowledge that we have lived in and around this country for thousands and thousands of years,” he said.
“There are cave paintings which are thousands of years old which have been well preserved and we have discovered and protected a number of fire places – one of which has been carbon dated as 5000 years of age.”
The decision grants the Barada Barna and Widi people non-exclusive native title rights to access, hunt, fish and gather, conduct ceremonies and teach on the lands.
The Barada Barna people have also negotiated a Protected Areas Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) with the Queensland Government to manage the exercise of native title rights and interests within the Dipperu National Park.
The decision coincides with NAIDOC week – a week-long celebration of Australia’s traditional owners – that began yesterday and will run until Sunday.
Many councils across Australia are honouring their traditional owners with ceremonies, Indigenous flag-raising and other cultural events throughout the week.
