Aboriginal Way Issue 45, June 2011 A publication of South Australian Native Title Services The Reconciliation Edition Reconciliation: on the right track?

An Adelaide Metro tram has been wrapped up in Aboriginal Art to highlight Reconciliation Week 2011. The tram will remain in the artwork for nine weeks, taking in National Sorry Day, Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week. “The design celebrates the spirit of reconciliation and the importance of Aboriginal art and culture, acknowledging all 39 language groups whose country is either fully or partly located within ,” said Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation Minister Grace Portolesi. The art was designed by the 2010 NAIDOC SA ‘Artist of the Year’ Paul Herzich.

Minister raises racism as reconciliation issue Racism was the buzz word during What I’m asking our community to “I believe we, as a community, will “South Australia has come a long Reconciliation Week in South Australia. recognise is that racism is profoundly continue to struggle with closing the way with legislative reform against experienced by Aboriginal people and discrimination since Don Dunstan’s Aboriginal Affairs Minister Grace Portolesi gap of Aboriginal disadvantage until that we have a responsibility to face up to we acknowledge that Aboriginal people pioneering legislation of the 1960s. raised the issue during the Reconciliation But despite this racism persists, so it as a community and actively tackle it.” are confronted with racism and its Breakfast at the National Wine Centre we need to publicly recognise it and consequences on a daily basis. on May 27. “Aboriginal people tell us about the consider practical action.” discrimination and prejudice they “Racism has a very damaging impact on Minister Portolesi said she had asked experience in their daily lives and Reconciliation Co-chair Peter Buckskin the lives of Aboriginal people,” she said. the SA Aboriginal Advisory Committee research bears this out. told Aboriginal Way that racism was to develop strategies designed to “Research from across the world shows a real issue that needed attention. “Comprehensive national research that racism affects people’s mental and tackle the problem and indicated released this year by the University of “Education is the key to tackling physical health and we know that racial they would make it a priority of their this but also all people need to Sydney showed that more than discrimination can significantly reduce current term. take responsibility for the way they a quarter of Australians polled expressed people’s opportunities. behave and interact with others,” anti-Aboriginal sentiments. One in five “We should not underestimate the said Professor Buckskin. “This year’s theme for Reconciliation Aboriginal people polled said they were importance of small but practical steps Week is ‘Let’s Talk Recognition’. often treated with disrespect and mistrust. such as this,” she said. Reconciliation Week photos on page 6

Inside: Sorry. Still living on borrowed time 4 Ngarrindjeri Nation Ngartar art project 10 Historic hand back to traditional owners in Central Australia 14 First Nations Parry’s view representatives Re-igniting the spark make history The National Congress of Australia’s The new board continues to embody of reconciliation First Peoples have announced the our commitment to gender equity results of its first elections for the which is still a first in Australia. If you were I wonder if you can Board of Directors. The Directors Elect will take office in remember how that felt? To me, it was Congress Co-Chairs Josephine Bourne July and consider the policy recom- a feeling of real happiness…of hope… and Sam Jeffries, said that the mendations from this inaugural National not unlike the feelings of a first kiss. elections are the historic final steps Congress at their first meeting. The question we have to ask ourselves towards forming the first elected Joining Co-Chairs Ms Jody Broun and today is how do we reignite the spark Board of the National Congress of Mr Les Malezer on the first Board will be: so that the flame of reconciliation can Australia’s First Peoples. William (Brian) Butler (SA), Venessa burn strong again. The Directors were elected by the Curnow (QLD), Dennis Eggington I’m not sure what the answer is – but delegates at the inaugural meeting (WA), Rodney Little (ACT), Tammy I do know that it has to start in your of the National Congress. Solonec (WA) and Daphne Yarram (VIC). heart and travel to your mind so that the thoughts of reconciliation become more than just thoughts…that we take some action. Anangu construction In the current State Government strategic plan Aboriginal unemployment is a workers recognised big ticket item, with the government Minister for Housing Jennifer supervised by a contractor on behalf worried that the numbers of Aboriginal Rankine has acknowledged the of Housing SA. people out of work is three times the achievements of 20 Aboriginal rate of the non-Aboriginal population. The properties were funded in 2009–10 construction workers and presented under the National Partnership Agreement The government wants to reduce the them with a nationally-recognised for Remote Indigenous Housing. gap…how are we going? Well, the qualification in Civil Construction. State’s report card into the strategic The awards ceremony was the The accredited training, Certificate I plan shows that there has been culmination of a successful, six-month and II in Civil Construction, was delivered some positive movement in the “gap” employment and accredited training on and off the job by Industry Services between Aboriginal unemployment and program resulting in the construction of Australia, a recognised trade training Above: SANTS CEO, Mr Parry Agius. non-Aboriginal unemployment…but the 33 houses on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara provider based in Darwin. reality is not much has changed. There Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in the far For Aboriginal people, the few “Career Employment Group, a not-for- may be a few more Aboriginal people north-west of South Australia. simple words that recognise employed in the public sector…but profit Group Training and labour hire country, mean a lot. It means not enough. Not enough in the private “The ceremonies recognise the organisation, co- ordinated the workforce that there is an element of sector either. achievements of 20 Aboriginal people development program in both communities, acknowledgement that they from the APY Lands; 13 from Mimili and employed members of the Anangu It’s a similar story in just about ARE the traditional owners, who seven from Amata,” said Ms Rankine. community, and provided community every social indicator…there are deserve respect and thanks for care services,” Ms Rankine said. more aboriginal people in prisons, “This is a great achievement and the having people on their country. on welfare, dropping out of school Amata and Mimili communities can “Housing SA now requires all contractors be extremely proud of the result. It is a ceremony, which has been than the rest of the poplulation. who work on the APY Lands to include seen by some people interstate and “The skills these individuals have gained Anangu people in their workforces. Aboriginal people die younger too… I suspect here too, as a waste of time. during their participation in the program did you know that the life expectancy “I am confident we will continue to see will give them great opportunities to work I believe the recognition ceremony for an Aboriginal man is 67…11½ years very real benefits flow to families and within their communities and beyond.” has become, and should remain, less than for the wider community… communities through our program of an integral part of how we conduct for women it’s 72, 10 years less. Ms Rankine said work involved the building new houses along with our work construction of fencing, gates, shade to ensure local people benefit from the business in South Australia. It’s simply not good enough. shelters, fire pits and clothes lines increased employment opportunities,” How do we fix these problems? It is significant that people are talking for the 33 new houses. The work was she said. about getting rid of the welcome to Where do we start? country ceremony, or paying respects Reconciliation must be the key. to the traditional owners. I want you to think about that bridge It shows that in the 11 years since walk or that first kiss and try to 300-thousand people crossed remember how good that felt. It’s a fact… Sydney Harbor bridge in support of Can you imagine what it would be like if reconciliation…and 55-thousand here you could get that feeling on a regular Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Adelaide…that reconciliation has basis because you did something experience discrimination. gone off the boil…it’s hardly even positive towards reconciliation? spoken about. Now please don’t think I’m accusing More than one quarter (27%) of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people What happened to those 55-thousand you of doing nothing. I’m not. aged 15 and over had experienced discrimination in the last 12 months. voices that offered loud support to I know that many of you do much reconciliation? Where are they now? for Aboriginal people. One in 10 (11%) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged 4–14 years

Maybe you were among those What I’m asking you is to please think reported being bullied at school because of their Indigenous origin. people who joined together in the about reconciliation again…not just Information supplied from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, The Health and spirit of reconciliation. today, or tomorrow, but every day. Welfare of Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Oct 2010.

2 Aboriginal Way, June 2011 Remembering and recognising our Aboriginal veterans A moving ceremony commemorating many Aboriginal soldiers who have “Aboriginal people have proudly served to honour the memory and contribution the service of Aboriginal veterans served Australia. this country for over 100 years and made by Aboriginal and Torres Strait was held in Adelaide on May 27. continue to do so. Islander service men and women. The gathering was told that Aboriginal About 300 people attended the service men and some women have served in He said the wished the wider community The memorial will face the Torrens on the steps of the South Australian every conflict that Australia has been could follow the military’s lead when it Parade Ground. War Memorial on North Terrace, city. involved in. came to racism. Donations are being sought to purchase Among the guests of honour were Lieutenant Jack Pearson gave the “Racism and discrimination is not paving for the area. Pavers can be SA Governor, Kevin Scarce, Reconciliation address, reminding those present that a feature in service. We can do it engraved with the names of those Co-chairs Prof Peter Buckskin and even when Aboriginal people were not in the military, why not in the wider who served or their families. Ms Robyn Layton and Professor Lowitja recognised as citizens they still served. community?” he asked. For more information contact Marj Tripp O’Donoghue. “They made up their nationality, An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island on 0404 090 058 or Frank Lampard The day was held to honour the so that they could serve,” he said. War Memorial is being commissioned on 0417 807 838.

Above: On the steps of the War Memorial, in North Terrace, Adelaide. Above: Lieutenant Jack Pearson being interviewed after the ceremony.

Above: Major Sumner performed Above: Professor Lowitja O’Donohue a Smoking Ceremony. and Amy Levi lay a memorial.

Above: Mr Steve Dodds wore his medals with pride. He served in Korea at the Battle of Kapyong in 1951. Above: Aboriginal Australian Soldiers, past and present, on the steps of the War Memorial.

Aboriginal Way, June 2011 3 Sorry. Still living on borrowed time National Sorry Day was held on Mr Browne also urged people to show their The bill seeks to establish a tribunal and “Members of the stolen generation May 26 with the theme ‘Sorry. support for a piece of legislation currently provide monetary and other forms of still have this very raw memory of Still living on borrowed time!’ in the South Australian Parliament. compensation to Aboriginal people who being taken from their families,” were forcibly removed from their families. Sorry Day organisers say there is The Greens Tammy Franks, MLC, has said Ms Portolesi. introduced to the Parliament, a bill called still much to do, that there are many The bill has in principle support from “I’ve heard some of their heartbreaking people still hurting as a result of the the Reparations Bill. Aboriginal Legal Rights Movement, stories and I know how vital it is that Stolen Generations. which wants people to contact their At present the Liberals’ have made some all Australians not only recognise amendments to the Bill which essentially local members of parliament to get “We must not forget those affected,” these wrongs, but support the process call for an inquiry into the Bill via the them to support it. said Sorry Day Chair, John Browne. of healing.” Aboriginal Lands Parliamentary Standing Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation “There are many people who were Committee. The amendment is seen Minister, Grace Portolesi said there is In Adelaide, Sorry Day was marked hurt, many are still hurting,” he said. as a positive one. still a lot to be done to achieve justice with the Mattanyaitpinya Wodlianni Stolen “Sorry Day gives us an opportunity If this happens, the committee most for the stolen generations, many of Generations event in Victoria Square to recognise that. likely will call for contributions from July. whom are now senior citizens. (Tarndanyannga).

Above: Students from Hampstead Primary School. Above: Left to right: Jeffrey Cooper and Ivan Copley.

Above: Children from Sturt Street Primary School were fascinated by the exhibits Above: Left to right: Ellen Trevorrow and Noreen Kartinyeri from Camp Coorong showed how to weave baskets. on show from the Adelaide Museum.

Above: Left to right: Debra Rigney and Leanna Vandenheuvel from Domiciliary Care. Above: John Browne from SA Journey of Healing.

4 Aboriginal Way, June 2011 Above: Performers showed off some tradtional Islander dances.

Above: Amelia Campbell told her story and sang at the Sorry Day event. Above: Left to right: Damon Koomatrie, 11, Alex Pinkie, 11 and Robert Koolmatrie 10 from Alberton Primary School.

Above: Left to right: Doris Kartinyeri and Maxine Risk. Above: Left to right: Shannen Bartel, 10 and Harley Callaghan, 12 from Enfield Primary School.

Above: Left to right: Hazel Martin and Chris Charles at ALRM’s Sorry Day event. Above: Left to right: John Browne, Neil Gillespie and Brian Butler at ALRM’s Sorry Day event.

Aboriginal Way, June 2011 5 Reconciliation Down Rundle: Healthy Land, Living and Culture

6 Aboriginal Way, June 2011 Reconciliation Down Rundle: Healthy Land, Living and Culture

Aboriginal Way, June 2011 7 Aboriginal Heritage News To recognise the importance of Heritage and Native Title being considered together, the Aboriginal Heritage Branch (AHB) of the Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation Division (AARD) will have a small section in this newspaper to address what we are doing about important issues.

The State Aboriginal Heritage Committee (SAHC) and the AHB are working closely with the Congress Heritage Sub-Committee and the South Australia Native Title Services (SANTS). Site conservation project at Loxton On 15 April 2011 conservation bank of the River Murray. The burial site covered over while a management plan the First Peoples of the River Murray works were carried out on an is part of a larger archaeological site. for the wider area is developed. and Mallee, the Working on Country exposed burial site at Loxton. This Evidence of the archaeological site is Dirt and sand used to cover the burial Rangers, Tonkin Consulting, the site was recorded by the Heritage visible with remains of midden material was donated by the District Council Department for Primary Industries and Protection and Conservation Team and the presence of stone artefacts. of Loxton Waikerie. The labour was Natural Resources, The Department of of the Aboriginal Heritage Branch The area is criss-crossed by several provided by the Working on Country Environment and Natural Resources and within the Aboriginal Affairs and unregulated vehicle tracks. Rangers who covered and landscaped the District Council of Loxton Waikerie, Reconciliation Division of the the burial sites and built the fence. The burial site was flagged off to stop Department of the Premier and Mr Eric Cook also assisted by conducting in assisting us with this project. access while arrangements were made Cabinet when first discovered. a smoking ceremony. by the Heritage Conservation Team for Heritage Protection and The burial is situated in an eroded vehicle its conservation. It was determined that The Aboriginal Heritage Branch Conservation Team track on high ground on the southern in the short term the burial was to be acknowledges the participation of DPC-AARD

Above: The Caring for Country team: Steven Cullingford, Troy Cullingford, Robert Tripp, Ken Karpany, supervisor Mark Rover, Tina Morgan, Belinda Blight and Amanda Morgan.

This section sponsored by the State Government of South Australia

8 Aboriginal Way, June 2011 West coast heritage Aboriginal site visits and recording Heritage Branch If you have a question about heritage or want to be on our mailing list you can contact us via the people listed below.

Manager Anne Stimson [email protected] Ph: (08) 8226 8902 or 0401 124 391

Heritage Conservation Heidi Crow [email protected] Ph: (08) 8226 8917

Community and Industrial Relations Ribnga Green [email protected] Ph: (08) 8226 7052

Heritage Information Management Justin Wearne [email protected] Ph: (08) 8226 8860

Register Searches [email protected]

State Aboriginal Heritage Committee Laura Najjar Above: Allan Wilson, Penong Miller, Kenny Wilson and Matt Morrison near Baird Bay. [email protected] The first week in May 2011 saw the un-recorded sites along the way. added to the DPC-AARD central archive. Ph: (08) 8226 6200 Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation Preliminary research showed that previous This trip highlighted the scale of the Fax number Division of the Department of the archaeological work in the area had been task faced by communities and heritage (08) 2260390 Premier and Cabinet and South limited to coastal areas and suggested professionals in recording sites. The Australian Native Title Services that much remained to be done. cliché ‘it’s a big country’ is true and a lot Location staff undertaking site visits with more work still needs to be carried out State Administration Building Allan Wilson, Penong Miller, The NTMC wanted to concentrate efforts throughout this area. Level 13 Matt Morrison and Kenny Wilson on the coast as well, but also included 200 Victoria Square/ of the Wirangu No 2 Native Title some inland sites to visit. Our daily work We would like to thank all of the Wirangu Tarndanyangga Management Committee in the area schedule was determined by the priorities No2 NTMC members, in particular Allan, ADELAIDE SA 5000 between Elliston and Streaky Bay of the NTMC members and resulted in Penong, Matt and Kenny for a great week in the state’s west. the inspection of several known sites and in a beautiful part of the world. Postal address the recording of over a dozen new sites. The aim of the trip was to relocate Heritage Protection and GPO Box 2343 sites already recorded on the DPC-AARD Site cards and a short report will be Conservation Team ADELAIDE, SA 5001 Central Archive and to document any drafted for the NTMC, and the new sites DPC-AARD Register of Aboriginal sites and objects It is really important for communities • Yes, there are heritage sites. We then sourced directly from the site card are sites on country, there is a higher to understand the importance prepare a response letter advising the or Heritage Committee contact list. potential for applicants and pastoralists of having site information on the applicant that there are sites within • No, there are no heritage sites to unknowingly damage or disturb Register of Aboriginal sites and their project area. This response listed on the Register located in these sites. objects. includes a mud map that shows the the project area. There may still be approximate location and the type of I would like to extend an open invitation In the Heritage Information Team we sites present and these sites are site: Archeological, Anthropological, receive and respond to development, still protected under the Aboriginal to all communities to come and visit mining and exploration applications. Historical or Traditional. This is the Heritage Act 1988. our office, meet the staff and check the Once received we are able to compare only site information contained in information that we contain is up to date. the applicant’s project area with the Site the letter. We also include Traditional This reiterates how vital it is that we have Please contact the Heritage Information Register to determine if there are any Owner (TO) information for the heritage sites recorded on the Register. heritage sites within the project area. applicant to contact for further If we are sending out ‘no sites on the Team by telephoning 8226 8900 to The response can fall into 2 categories: information. The TO details are Register’ letters, when in fact there make an arrangement.

This section sponsored by the State Government of South Australia

Aboriginal Way, June 2011 9 In memory and recognition of our elders: they will not be forgotten Kunmanara Tur mother tongue, Antikirinya-Yankunytjatjara Mrs Tur was given permission and “She was a born teacher and from a fluently. This skill would lead to a life long selected by Pitjantjatjara Elders to very early age she began helping others,” Aboriginal elder Kunmanara Tur career as a translator and interpreter. teach and interpret Pitjantjatjara (as said Mr Wanganeen passed away recently. this is not her mother tongue) in courts, In 1973 Mrs Tur began teaching prisons, hospitals, for Native Title claims Commissioner Khatija Thomas said Mrs Tur was born in 1936 at Hamilton Pitjantjatjara at the Summer School of and as a lecturer with the University Mrs Tur was an inspiration to many in Bore, about 100kms from Oodnadatta, the University of Adelaide and began of South Australia. the community as a women who lived north-west South Australia. interpreting for the Aboriginal Legal and survived through the many challenges Mrs Tur was the first Aboriginal Artist in Rights Movement. This was the beginning faced by our people of her generation. She spent her early years in a bush camp Residence with Carclew Youth Performing of a career that spanned almost 40 years with her mother, the late Mary Inawantji Arts Centre, performing in numerous “As a pioneer in teaching, translation and Carroll, a Yankunytjatjara woman and as an interpreter for Anangu people schools teaching children about Anangu interpretation, her volunteered generosity her father, the late John Edward (Jack) where she was employed with the Ethnic culture, storytelling, song and dance. of spirit and time in sharing her cultural Kennedy, an Irish man. Affairs Commission and as a court knowledge will be sadly missed,” said In April 2011 Mrs Tur was awarded the interpreter on the North West circuit. Ms Thomas. At the age of seven Mrs Tur’s family Flinders University Honorary Degree of relocated to the township of Oodnadatta Mrs Tur was given Eldership status Letters, honoris causa for her lifelong The Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, where she entered Oodnadatta Mission at the age of 46 from the Antikirinya- contribution as a cultural education, the Hon Grace Portolesi said Mrs Tur Yankunytjatjara community northwest oral linguist, interpreter and advocate to begin school. touched many people’s lives and was a of South Australia in the Anangu for Indigenous rights. catalyst for people who sought to retain At the age of 14 she was sent to the Pitjantjatjara, Yankunytjatjara lands She has also written an autobiography or regain their Aboriginal language and Bagshaw family in McLaren Flat, Adelaide (APY lands). Cicada Dreaming. for those of us who wished to learn an to work as a domestic where she helped Aboriginal language. She has been a tireless advocate and raised their three boys. Commissioner Klynton Wanganeen cultural broker for the Anangu community said Mrs Tur has spent her entire life “She worked tirelessly to ensure Throughout this time Mrs Tur continued in relation to land rights, health provision, helping others and is very highly Aboriginal knowledge and language was to see her mother and her little sister, and maintenance of Anangu languages regarded both in the community and accessible to people, learning institutions Gloria, and was still able to speak her and as an interpreter. non-Aboriginal community. and Government.

Ngarrindjeri Nation Ngartar art project Picturesque Sturt Reserve at Murray Bridge was the setting for the launch of the Ngarrindjeri Bollards Carving Project in May.

Proceedings began with the choir, Ngarrindjeri Miminar Kykulan performing three songs including their own Welcome to Country song.

Guests were welcomed by Mayor Allan Arbon OAM, followed by the official launch by Trish Hansen, Manager, Public Art and Design, Arts SA.

Lena Rigney, Ngarrindjeri elder, and member Kungun Ngarrindjeri Yunnan Arts Advisory Committee gave a brief background of the project and spoke about the project as a participant and gave out certificates to participants and support organisations.

The Ngarrindjeri Bollards Carving Project was a Community Arts Development project for the Aboriginal community funded through ArtsSA and endorsed by the Ripples Aboriginal Steering group as a Ripples 2010 skills development opportunity.

Members of the Aboriginal community were invited to develop designs around the ngartar (totems) of the Ngarrindjeri Nation under the guidance of artist Michael Tye who then refined the designs to be applied to the bollards.

This process was supported with ecological information provided by the Murray Darling Natural Resource Management Board and the carving skills and expertise of the Murraylands Woodturners Club and the South Australian Wood Carving Academy.

The outcome of this project is six beautiful images of birds and animals of the region carved into posts and at Sturt Reserve by the council depot This project has not only added to the between different community groups then painted in black and white. staff both as works of public art and skills set of local Ngarrindjeri artists, but whilst promoting understanding of They have been installed by the river functional mooring bollards. created partnerships and understandings Ngarrindjeri culture and reconciliation.

10 Aboriginal Way, June 2011 In memory and recognition of our elders: they will not be forgotten She will be sadly missed. Kunmanara Tur Aboriginal sports groups to raise led the way in taking care of the Kingston Mrs Casey also looked after the elderly remains an inspiration to many of us, money to attend carnivals and purchase SE camping and burial grounds.” people who camped at the Latare site non-Aboriginal people and Aboriginal uniforms and sporting equipment. at Glanville and would frequently visit In 1988 Mrs Casey became Chairperson people alike,” said the Minister. and take food and share stories with “Mrs Casey was a true inspiration and of the Kungari Association, once again them by the campfire. role model. Never one to just sit back displaying her desire to ensure greater and watch, she was always finding new Noeline Casey recognition of Aboriginal culture and the Mrs Casey has also been involved in ways to get the community involved”, protection of Aboriginal sites. the return and repatriation of Aboriginal Aboriginal elder Noeline Casey passed said Mr Wanganeen. human remains from overseas. away recently. It was also very important to Mrs Casey Mrs Casey’s particular interest in that young Aboriginal people were Ms Casey is survived by three daughters, Born in Kingston, SE South Australia Aboriginal women’s issues saw her engaged in issues and had positive role 12 grand children and seven great in 1936, Mrs Casey was a descendant become a founding member of the of the Tanganekald, Meintangk and South Australian Aboriginal Women’s models. Mrs Casey and the late Tony grand children. Bunganditj peoples of the South East and Council in the 1970s. Williams instigated and ran the first was the youngest of five children. Aboriginal youth drop in centre in Mrs Casey was passionate about Dale Street, Port Adelaide. Kunmanara Edwards In her childhood and teenage years protecting and preserving the Aboriginal Mrs Casey was a great sports person heritage of the South East and has Mrs Casey was well known by many Kunmanara Edwards from the Yalata and was associated with Largs Bay dedicated many voluntary years to this Aboriginal communities throughout community has passed away. Sports Club and Taperoo Sports Club. and in 1988 she became a founding South Australia. She was a very caring He was a strong and staunch advocate She played netball and basketball and member of the South Australian person and was well liked by all people and representative for his community was a great swimmer. She swam the Aboriginal Heritage Committee. whom she met. She developed many Port canal many times, for which she as an ALRM Board member from 2002 “Caring for the land was very important friendships with other Aboriginal Elders won many medals. to 2010. to Mrs Casey”, said Ms Thomas, “the from other communities. She was a She continued her involvement with protection and preservation of Aboriginal Founding Member of the South Australian He was also very active in the Yalata sporting clubs in later years and assisted heritage was paramount to her and she Elder’s Council. community and will be sadly missed. in review

Our column in review features reviews and stories on Aboriginal writers, artists and musicians. We welcome your feedback and suggestions. So if you know of a new work about to published or an artist or musician please contact us on (08) 8110 2800. New CD for Gurrumul It’s called ‘Rrakala’, and it’s The track Bakitju talks about home, that When you listen to it though, you don’t the second stunning CD by while he lives away from his home and want it to end. Gurrumul Yunupingu. history his body and mind are still there, Gurrumul sings with a heartfelt passion. they are of ‘that place’, his whole being is The title ‘Rrakala’ means a sub-group He also plays all the instruments on the of the Rock Bakitju, the soils, seas of people within the Gamatj clan and the album except the Double Bass, which is and sea-land of his ancestral estates. CD is full of songs that reflect deeper performed by Michael Hohnen and extra into Gurrumul’s identity. There are 12 songs on the album, guitars by Craig Pilkington. one Warwu runs 8.27 which is quite The CD follows in the footsteps Rrakala is available from all good long for a song. of the multi ARIA award winning music outlets and on line through double platinum album which www.skinnyfishmusic.com.au or was released in early 2008 and i-tunes. It costs about $30. is sure to be as successful.

The songs on the album are sung entirely in Australian languages, and no English. Even if you don’t speak Yolngu the sounds will move you.

Aboriginal Way, June 2011 11 Far West Coast news The Far West Coast Traditional Lands As well as the dozer, the FWCTLA has misfortune and helplessness amongst government agencies and business and Association has been operating an also purchased a mobile light tower and Far West Coast Native Title Claim Group has started working on strategies that will office in Ceduna since September an excavator that have been hired to through education, employment and benefit traditional owners with engagement last year after having been Iluka Resources. economic development. in education and employment. incorporated in February of 2008. All of this machinery is managed by a In the last twelve months, Aboriginal The Economic Development Manager company that’s been set up by the land people who are recognised as traditional is working with the board to establish The association is doing what it owners called Far West Mining and Civil owners of the Far West Coast have been a structure where traditional owners can to provide services to members that is managed through an agreement assisted with scholarships and education who live in Adelaide, Port Lincoln and on through a trust fund that has been set with MLCS Corporate. support, assistance with sports and youth the Far West Coast are able to access up off the back of a land use agreement activities, funerals and gaps in funding for opportunities to improve their socio- Iluka Resources have a 20% Indigenous with Iluka Resources. medical assistance among other things. economic circumstances. employment target and work well with The FWCTLA is making sure that services the FWCTLA in trying to achieve this It’s taken many years and a lot of hard The Far West Coast Traditional Lands can be provided into the future long past by holding regular meetings with a work from many people, Aboriginal and Association acknowledges the hard the life of the mine by making investments liaison committee made up of Iluka non-Aboriginal alike, for the land owners of work done by its members as well as and establishing enterprises. and FWCTLA representatives. the Far West Coast to get to this point with South Australian Native Title Services, plenty left to do. Iluka Resources and the Department In the last year or so the association has Aside from the objective of being of Employment, Education and been able to purchase a D10 Bull Dozer recognised through the determination Since opening an office, and employing Workplace Relations. that has been hired to Exact Mining at the of Native Title Rights, the Far West an Economic Development Manager, Jacinth Ambrosia Mine. This was done Coast Traditional Lands Association the FWCTLA has been able to establish For any enquiries please contact with the assistance of Indigenous Business has the objectives of relieving relationships with other organisations, John Isgar, Economic Development Australia who made a loan available. poverty, sickness, suffering, distress, service providers, government and non- Manager, email: [email protected]

Above: The Far West Coast Traditional Lands Association recently purchased this excavator which is being hired to Iluka Resources for work at it’s mine.

12 Aboriginal Way, June 2011 Above: Claude the Crow proved very popular with local children at a recent event, sponsored by the Far West Coast Traditional Lands Association.

New partnership provides jobs for Aboriginal people The Aboriginal Foundation of South “They will be involved in contract work Australian and McMahon Services across a range of construction and mining Australia Pty Ltd have joined activities and with companies that have a forces to create a new indigenous genuine interest in indigenous employment. employment program. “It is an exciting development and if we The program, called INTRACT Indigenous succeed in employing say 20 people in the Services, will promote employment first year into full time meaningful work, then we have made a difference,” he said. for indigenous people by performing contract services to Government and “The Government of South Australia is private organisations in the building committed to a minimum requirement and construction industry, particularly for indigenous employment, so when organisations with obligations or an the Government issues a tender for interest in employing indigenous people in construction work, INTRACT can assume the building and construction industry. that role for the organisation that is successful in the tender. AFSA received funding in February 2011 “We’ll take on that role of employing from the Federal Government to recruit, people through INTACT...and I feel very mentor and train 40 candidates for jobs positive about our ability to perform in this with INTRACT. area,” he said. AFSA CEO, Grahame Tonkin, said he is ‘INTRACT’ Indigenous Services is a division excited about the new enterprise. of McMahon Services Australia Pty Ltd “With the funding provided by the and has access to all of McMahon’s plant Department of Education, Employment and machinery resources through the and Work Place Relations, we can cooperative agreement. recruit people, hopefully young people Training will include driving and operating for jobs with INTRACT, which will develop heavy machinery and digging trenches as into long term meaningful employment,” well as individual mentoring and drug and he said. alcohol assistance.

Aboriginal Way, June 2011 13 Historic hand back National Native Title to traditional owners Conference 2011 Our Country, our future was the Tom Jenkin participated in a panel in Central Australia theme of the 2011 National Native discussion on ‘when the deal is done’ Title Conference, held in Brisbane and the implementation of agreements. One of the largest parcels of The park is the latest of 13 Northern June 1–3. Aboriginal land in the history of Territory parks to be returned Tom discussed the approach of the SANTS to implementation through the Aboriginal Land Rights Act to traditional owners under joint Several representatives from () has been South Australia attended including Implementation and Partnership policy, management arrangements following returned to traditional owners. Parry Agius, Osker Linde, Tom Jenkin which aims to position native title groups a landmark agreement in 2004. to manage their agreements and benefits Prime Minister Julia Gillard has handed and Michael Pagsanjan. on their own. He also discussed the back the deeds to four parcels of land to Under this agreement, the land is leased The conference is held each year by the importance of investing in native title traditional owners at a ceremony in Alice back to the Northern Territory for 99 Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres groups leadership, governance and Springs in June. years for use as a National Park, ensuring Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) and this management and not focusing solely on Two of the four parcels – Finke Gorge it operates as a protected conservation year was co-convened by the Queensland agreements and the agendas of others, South Native Title Services and hosted by National Park and Simpson Desert stage area for the enjoyment of all. and also the importance of partnerships 4 – were some of the earliest claims the Turrbal, Jagera, Yuggera and Ugarapul and projects to support the exercise lodged under the Aboriginal Land Rights The traditional owners will have a strong Peoples, the traditional owners of the and protection of native title rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976. voice in the future management and wider Brisbane area. and interests. Simpson Desert stage 4 is a parcel operation of the park under a joint The conference promotes native title as an Michael Pagsanjan and Tom Jenkin gave a of two pieces of land, which together management partnership with the agenda for justice for people and country, paper on Prescribed Body Corporates as measure an area of approximately Territory’s Parks and Wildlife Service. including the broader relationships an emerging sector in South Australia and 1,827,600 hectares, making it one of the between traditional owners and country. some of the opportunities and challenges. largest grants of Aboriginal land in land The Central Land Council and traditional A new feature of this year’s conference was Their paper highlighted the significant rights history. owners are working to design community The Dialogue Forums, which brought together opportunities that are before us through This is a historic day for the Arrernte development projects that can be people from diverse backgrounds and the forecast resolution of native title peoples of Central Australia and a supported with the income received experience to discuss a set question about claims across much of SA over the next milestone in the history of land rights under park leasing arrangements. native title in a collaborative environment. three years. in Australia. Simpson Desert stage 4, located east Osker Linde represented SANTS at one NT groups will be repositioned in a Finke Gorge National Park, located of The Dialogue Forums - ‘Holding Native network of relationships and opportunities approximately 138 kilometres west of , forms the estates of Title to ransom’. He discussed some of the involving government, landholders, of Alice Springs, has been recognised various traditional owners of the Arrernte challenges of settling native title and the and industry based on a reinvigorated internationally for its rich diversity of group of peoples and is rich in cultural current approach of the State Government community governance platform. To Central Australian flora. history and biodiversity. in achieving whole of claim settlement. realise these opportunities requires The Park includes a unique collection of the needs of today to be addressed, The remaining two parcels in this package Parry Agius also participated in a rare and ancient plants. It also contains through strategic investment in PBC dialogue forum discussing the issue of many sites of cultural significance to of four include two smaller grants of land development to facilitate governance ‘Development vs Country’ and whether you groups of the Arrernte people. in the vicinity of Hermannsburg. and compliance, strategic planning, can have both. In his presentation, Parry and economic development to ensure emphasized the importance of people in community leaders are in a position to native title – “It is people who file native guide and strengthen their communities. title claims, it is people who negotiate Conference to address agreements, it is people who receive Other people to attend the conference determinations, it is people who receive included Kerry Arabena, Mick Dodson, and access benefits, it is people who will Andrew Leach, Mick Gooda, Toni Bauman excessive incarceration continue to look after country and culture.” and Miriam McDonald. A national conference on the reinvestment and restorative justice excessive incarceration of Aboriginal programs without much success.” people will be held in Adelaide later “ALRM continues to be starved of this year. resources while the Commonwealth The conference is being convened and State Governments have argued It’s a fact… by South Australia’s Aboriginal Legal for the last five years on who should be Rights Movement. funding us. In 2008, 19% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people The excessive incarceration of Aboriginal “It appears both Commonwealth and aged 15 years and over (adults) and 13% of Aboriginal and people in South Australia and across State Governments are happy to simply the nation continues to cause concern lock up Aboriginal people which is the Torres Strait Islander children (aged 3–14 years) spoke an to ALRM Chief Executive Officer, simplest solution to complex community Neil Gillespie. issues, rather than implement programs Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander language. that address the causes of Aboriginal The Australian Institute of Health and engagement in the justice system. Welfare’s latest report shows the imprisonment rate of Aboriginal people The United Nations Human Rights 70% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children has increased more than 50% over the Committee and other UN agencies (aged 3–14 years) and 63% of adults (15 years or over) last decade. continue to express concern to Australia about its continued mistreatment of were involved in cultural events, ceremonies or “Those numbers are simply outrageous,” Aboriginal people, and in particular the said Mr Gillespie. organisations in 2008. continuing denial of access to justice and “ comprise more excessive incarceration rates of Aboriginal than a quarter of all people in prison, when people throughout the country. they are just 2.5% of the total population. Mr Gillespie said the outcome of The unemployment rate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait “The Aboriginal Legal Rights Movement the national conference is to identify Islander Australians fell from 23% in 2002 to 17% in 2008, Board and I express our continued initiatives and present these to frustration at the locking up Aboriginal Government in the expectation of but remained more than three times higher than the rate people without adequate resources influencing Government Policy in regard for non-Indigenous Australians (5% in 2008). from Government to provide appropriate to justice issues in Australia. legal representation. Our planned Conference’s slogan is Information supplied from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, The Health and “We have advocated long and hard for “Justice without Prejudice” and our theme Welfare of Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Oct 2010. early intervention and prevention, justice is “Locking us up isn’t the Answer”.

14 Aboriginal Way, June 2011 Antakirinja Matu-Yankunytjatjara native title The Antakirinja Matu-Yankunytjatjara The SA Government, the District The Court has recognised non-exclusive Native title holder, David Crombie people have welcomed and Council of Coober Pedy and the rights to hunt, fish, live, camp, gather said the native title determination celebrated their successful native Antakirinja Matu-Yankunytjatjara and use the natural resources, undertake will allow for Aboriginal people and title claim at a hearing and signing People have also signed an ILUA cultural activities including those relating non-Aboriginal people to form close ceremony in Coober Pedy. regarding the Breakaways Reserve to births and deaths, conduct ceremonies working relationships and both cultures and the Tallaringa ILUA is also and meetings, and protect places of will learn more about each other. On May 11, at a specially convened now authorised. cultural and religious significance. Federal Court hearing, Justice “Coming this far I think we can all work John Mansfield made a consent together…people can learn more about determination recognising the Antakirinja Aboriginal culture and both cultures Matu-Yankunytjatjara People as native can share their skills. It was a learning title holders of 78,672 sq km of land process when we went for native title… and waters. it was a learning process for each Chairperson of the Antakirinja Matu- culture,” said Mr Crombie. Yankunytjatjara native title committee, “To all aboriginal people in the David Brown said the fight for recognition area and throughout the APY and had been going on for many years. across to Yalata, right across the “We put in our claim over 15 years ago. west, it means a lot to us today, It was important that we did not give up we will all be happy today,” said hope. Today shows us what we can do David Crombie. if we stick to our goals and get good SANTS CEO Parry Agius praised advice and assistance,” he said. those who had been involved in the Mr Brown said that the Antakirinja Matu- negotiations, saying that careful Yankunytjatjara people already have negotiation and goodwill from all a strong relationship with the mining parties had resulted in strong companies in the region and look forward long-lasting relationships as well to the opportunities native title will bring. as a solid agreement. Above: Lucy Evans, John Rau, Phil Broderick. “We see education, training and jobs for “This agreement provides certainty for our children and grand-children as the all and sets out the relevant processes way for the future. for access to the land. It will make for “We want to stand on our own feet and smoother and stronger relationships, make it happen for ourselves, and this especially with regard to minerals determination of native title has given us exploration and mining in that region. the confidence to keep trying to make it “The Rann Government wants to push happen,” he said. for more minerals exploration and “This country is very special for us. mining to allow for strong economic It holds the spirit of our old people. growth in our state; agreements such It tells us who we are. We are part as the Antakarinja Matu-Yankunytjatjara of it,” said David Brown. consent determination play an important role in ensuring that exploration and Following the Court proceedings the development can occur in ways that will pastoralists, the SA Government and the benefit everyone,” said Mr Agius. Antakirinja Matu-Yankunytjatjara People finalised 29 pastoral Indigenous Land National Native Title Tribunal Deputy Use Agreements that set out the terms President Chris Sumner said the outcome of the ongoing relationship between the was the culmination of many years of pastoralists and the Antakirinja Matu- careful negotiation and perseverance Yankunytjatjara People. Above: Tim Wooley, Roger Thomas, Elain Moosha. by all parties.

“All the parties involved in the process leading to today’s outcome are to be congratulated for their willingness to work together to achieve a fair result. In particular the Antakirinja Matu-Yankunytjatjara People and their representatives have worked with dedication and commitment to achieve this result.

“This determination is a further example of what can be achieved when all those involved in the native title process – the Federal Court, the Tribunal, South Australian Native Title Services, the SA Government and legal and anthropological advisors – work together in a cooperative way,” Mr Sumner said.

This is the fifth determination in South Australia, following the contested determination of De Rose Hill in 2005, and the consent determinations of Yankunytjatjara/Antakirinja in 2006, Witjira National Park in 2008 and Above: Ian Crombie, David Brown, Bill Lennon. Adnyamathanha People in 2009.

Aboriginal Way, June 2011 15 Native title facts What kind of rights can be recognised The native title bundle of rights may include • Hunt, fish and gather food or by a determination of native title? the right to possess, occupy, use and traditional resources like water, enjoy a particular area to the exclusion of wood and ochre A determination of native title will state all others (often called a right of exclusive whether or not native title exists over the • Teach law and custom on country. possession). This includes the right to area claimed in the application. control access to, and use of, that area. There can be no native title rights to If native title is found to exist, the However, this right can only be recognised minerals, gas or petroleum recognised determination will go on to specify both over limited parts of Australia, such as some under Australian law and in tidal and sea who holds it and the content of their areas where the only other interest holder is areas, only non-exclusive native title can the crown (sometimes called unallocated or be recognised. SOUTH AUSTRALIAN native title rights and interests. It will also recognise the non-native title rights vacant crown land) and certain areas already NATIVE TITLE SERVICES Whether exclusive or not, native title: and interests in the area and set out the held by, or for, Indigenous Australians. • Is subject to regulation by Australian basic grounds for the co-existence of Over other areas, the native title bundle law in the same way as other peoples’ those two sets of rights. is most likely to be a set of ‘non-exclusive’ Level 4 rights are rights (which means there is no right to 345 King William Street The content of the native title bundle of rights will depend on the native title control access to, and use of, the areas). • Does not give native title holders the Adelaide SA 5000 holders’ traditional laws and customs These may include the right to: right to veto future developments but and on the capacity of Australian law to • Live on the area may mean their rights and interests recognise the rights and interests they need to be taken into account. • Access the area for traditional Editor hold under those laws and customs. purposes, like camping or Indigenous Australians may also have Parry Agius For example, the existence of other conducting ceremonies the right to be compensated for loss rights and interests over the same or impairment of their native title. area may prevent native title being • Visit and protect important places This information was supplied by the National Journalist recognised or limit its content. and sites Native Title Tribunal. Lesley Johns

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Above: Professor Lowitja O’Donoghue, Maud Tongerie, Steve Dodd and George Tongerie at the launch of the DVD “For Love of Country” documenting the contribution of South Australian Aboriginal ex-servicemen and women in every conflict from the Boer war until now. If you have any stories of interest to our readers, please address any correspondence to: [email protected] Aboriginal Way South Australian Native Title Services Level 4 345 King William Street Adelaide SA 5000 Ph: 8110 2800 Fax: 8110 2811 FREECALL: 1800 010 360

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Above: The team from SANTS took part in Reconciliation Down Rundle event “Healthy Land, Living & Culture”.

16 Aboriginal Way, June 2011