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Northern Edition

August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au

1 Australia’s oldest Aboriginal newspaper. Since 1973. NEWS NEWS

EDITORIAL Time to vote in the Territory From the news: ‘All Territorians have a right to Land Rights News Northern Edition is A message from the NLC Chairman and CEO published by Samuel safe drinking water’ Bush-Blanasi for the Northern Land Council. Contributions Land Rights News ON SAFE DRINKING WATER welcomes stories and photos about Samuel Bush-Blanasi, NLC Chairman, quoted in the Katherine Aboriginal people Times on 23 August: and organisations. "The land councils call for urgent legislation to ensure that all Territorians have Editors access to safe drinking water. Leah McLennan Robert Gosford "All Territorians, not just those living in major towns, have a right to safe and adequate drinking water. Bush voters deserve to know how the parties are planning Contact to ensure they can enjoy this right." [email protected] Layout Jeni Jossaume Front cover Chips Mackinolty ON BORDER SECURITY Marion Scrymgour, NLC CEO, quoted in ABC News on 3 July:

"Whilst we've got these numbers increasing, they're not decreasing in Victoria, our NLC borders should be closed to people from Victoria. The Chief Minister has shown CONTACT DETAILS great leadership from the outset with COVID-19. We're calling on that leadership Northern Land Council again, to be strong and to draw a line in the sand in terms of making sure that Territorians are kept safe." 45 Mitchell St NLC Executive Council and CEO Marion Scrymgour at the Joint Land Council Executive Committee meeting on July 29. Darwin NT 0820 *At the time of printing the NT Government had declared Victoria, greater Sydney and Port Stephens as COVID-19 hot spots for the NT. 08 8920 5100 ON Saturday August 22 issues that affect you, your everyone over the age of you’re unsure of where www.nlc.org.au the people of the NT will family and the community 18. You can be fined for and when you can vote decide its Government that you live in. failing to vote. speak to someone at your Facebook for the next four years. We also hope those We encourage you to local NLC office, your local @northernlandcouncil We as Aboriginal people candidates have listened cast a vote in the election council or get in touch Twitter play a significant role to what you have to say that you believe will be with the NT Electoral @NLC_74 in the decision making and what you believe is in the best interests of Commission on 1800 698 ON LAUNCH OF MALAK MALAK Instagram process. One in four NT important when it comes Aboriginal people. If 683 or 08 8999 5000. LANGUAGE APP @northernlandcouncil voter is Aboriginal - for to policy making over the this reason our vote will next four years. Joy Cardona, NLC Full Council Member, quoted in the YouTube make a difference. In this edition of Katherine Times on 30 June: NLC TV VOTE FOR 'We, as Aboriginal people, play "It’s important to preserve the language and hand it on to the next generation. a significant role in the decision "We needed to capture the language while the Aunties are still alive, to keep the making process. COUNTRY! language and Malak Malak clan strong, and to pass it on to our children.” SUBSCRIPTIONS One NT voter in four is Aboriginal To subscribe fill - for this reason our vote will out the online form make a difference.' at www.nlc.org.au

It is important that Land Rights News we between now and when have reached out to the ON THE PASSING OF JOHN (JACK) AH KIT you vote, you give candidates from the six ADVERTISING considerable thought as to bush seats that fall in Lisa Mumbin, NLC Full Council Member, quoted in ABC News who will provide the best the NLC region: Arafura, on 22 July: Next publication date leadership and the best Arnhem, Barkly, Daly, Rates are at www. local voice for your region. Mulka (formerly known as "When he stepped into Territory politics, Jawoyn people were never far from his nlc.org.au/media- We trust you have seen Nhulunbuy) and Gwoja. I thoughts as he advocated for Aboriginal people from the Arnhem region. publications or email many of the candidates hope you take the time to [email protected] aspiring to win your vote read what the people vying "He taught us how to negotiate and how to stand up for our rights, and how to stand up for common causes through our humanity.” Circulation and you have made the to win your vote have said. 4,000 print most of any opportunity Voting in the NT to speak with them about election is compulsory for

2 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 3 NEWS NEWS Blue Mud Bay deal will protect Aboriginal sea Winners of Australia's first National Indigenous country rights Fashion Awards revealed

Member for Arnhem Selena Uibo, NLC Chair Samuel Bush-Blanasi, Chief Minister Michael Gunner and NLC CEO Marion Scrymgour at Timber Creek.

THE NLC and the NT the intertidal zone. That Council, the NT Amateur commitments up to December 2022’. Government signed the means that traditional Fishermen’s Association the end of 2022. NLC Chairman Blue Mud Bay Action owners control access and the NT Guided Fishing These commitments are Samuel Bush-Blanasi Several NT designers and artists were among the mix of winners including Evonne Muyuyngu, Margaret Djarbaalabal Malibirr and Daphne Banyawarra of Plan on 29 July. to around 85 per cent of Industry Association too extensive to list here, said: “Following the Bula’bula Arts at Ramingining, pictured here with family. “The Action Plan the NT coastline. signed the Nitmiluk Heads but include for example, election we look forward provides sea country ‘the NT Government will to working closely with THE best of Aboriginal were among the mix of their collaboration with creatives nominated from and bring about a truly traditional owners with a 'The new Fisheries Act needs provide funding to support the NT government to and Torres Strait Islander winners including Kieren Maara Collective. across the country, and emotional experience” clear pathway to achieving to include Aboriginal people as the establishment of an develop and deliver a new fashion and design Karritpul of Merrepen The NIFA showcased awarded winners across six and also for his “use of culturally appropriate was put on show at Arts Centre, and Mary collections and designs unique categories. movement and truly economic and employment part of the Northern Territory's the inaugural National Dhapalany Mangul, from Australia’s Judges said Karritpul breathtaking colours”. outcomes that will benefit economic program going Indigenous Fashion Margaret Djarbaalabal leading and emerging was selected as the textile our mob for generations forward, and it's about how Awards on 5 August. Malibirr and Evonne designers and artists. design winner due to to come,” said NLC CEO we manage those fisheries in a Several Territory Muyuyngu of Bula’bula The event saw 33 his, “ability to tell stories Marion Scrymgour. designers and artists Arts at Ramingining for Indigenous fashion through his textiles In mid-2008 the High sustainable way so that they are Court of Australia, in the there for the future' - NLC CEO Blue Mud Bay case, found Marion Scrymgour that traditional owners NLC’s new Wadeye office opens have the right to control In June 2019 at of Agreement. The Action THE Wadeye access to waters overlying Nitmiluk, the NTG, the Plan implements this Regional Office ‘Aboriginal Land’ including NLC, the NT Seafood agreement with specific is now in action, with the office set up, with WiFi connected, as Aboriginal fishing entity Fisheries Act, which will to facilitate participation reflect the undeniable fact well as video- of traditional owners of Aboriginal ownership of conferencing in fishing, aquaculture sea country and the need and other opportunities to implement sustainable facilities. Setting associated with fishing and appropriate policies up offices outside activities in the NT’. for the future management It also sets out NLC’s of our fisheries and of Darwin is part commitments, for protection of this most of the NLC’s example, ‘the NLC will precious resource”. consult traditional owners Regionalisation on extending the permit Strategy – ‘Building free interim arrangements Catching some fresh air at the new NLC office in Wadeye. for fishing access in Blue the Bush’. Mud Bay tidal waters to 31

4 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 5 OBITUARY OBITUARY 'My personal light on the hill': Pat Dodson's Vale our Jack: 'A big man with a big vision' eulogy to John (Jack) Ah Kit The first Aboriginal minister in the NT parliament died in late July. This is a shortened version of Labor Senator Pat Dodson’s tribute to him.

WHEN announcing the death of our great friend, Jack Ah Kit, his immediate family said “this is a life that should be the focus of celebration and commemoration” – and that is indeed why we are here today. In remembering and celebrating, we are thinking of the many, many stories that made up his life – some that we shared with him; some that we heard tell of; some that we witnessed. The importance of stories to Jack – and indeed to all Aboriginal people – was perhaps best summed up in his own words, in his first ministerial statement to the Legislative Assembly: “Sitting around the camp fire, yarning with the old people and watching the faces of kids in the fire light reminded me of my own childhood and of how the lives of Aboriginal people are inextricably linked with each other through family and community. “In an important sense, these links are forged by the social interaction that is symbolised by the way us mob – Aboriginal people – gather together around the camp fire. “I remember those camp fires and they are my personal light on the hill. “The light on the hill, the family fire in the camp, that will show the path forward and, in my darkest moments, that is the image I return to.”

'The light on the hill, the family Then Sports Minister John Ah Kit gets a feel of the newly installed turf at Marrara Oval in 2002. Photo courtesy of NT News by Clive Hyde. fire in the camp, that will show As director of the light of day – let alone ‘traditional man’. How parliamentary leader of alongside all the groups the path forward and, in my Central Land Council at light on the hill. do you think those men the Country Liberal party that make up the Territory, darkest moments, that is the the time, I joined Jack on Then of course there’s and women of mixed has condoned, promoted from any number of image I return to.' those forays. They were his time as a member of ethnic, cultural and class hard and long days. But parliament here in the NT. 'Let us not have the racist backgrounds. So indeed, Of course those words – “light on the hill” – go back Jack would always help get It was a vicious and racist let us not have the racist to the words of Ben Chifley back in 1949, as Labor prime us through with his sense campaign run by the then sins of the fathers visited sins of the fathers visited minister. Indeed, the words go back further to biblical of humour as we gathered CLP government seeking on our children.' on our children. times and the Sermon on the Mount. our forces each night. to divide Aboriginal Over his life he was a But for Jack there was something very personal in this Jack’s cooking skills people into “traditional” descent from throughout and sanctioned. brother, father, a husband, John Berto and Lisa Mumbin from the Jawoyn Association at TIO stadium. In 1991, Jack was idea, this vision, which he always carried with him. were legendary throughout Aboriginal people the territory, who are full “Let us not have the an uncle, a cousin, a appointed director of the Katherine-based Jawoyn Association. He brought that vision to his job as director, as the the territory. It’s well and “yellafellas”. and active participants in racist sins of the fathers brother-in-law and a boss was then called, of the Northern Land Council. known that on a number It’s worth quoting a traditional ceremonies, feel visited on our children.” grandfather to so many That job stood him in good stead for his later career as a of land claims around the section of Jack’s inaugural about the member opposite Indeed, those final of us. Deeply embedded member of the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly. Top End in the 1980s he speech to the Legislative and his terms of abuse? … words from Jack echo in this was his love of Those years when Jack headed up the NLC were heady would leave the traditional Assembly as he recalled his “Does this mean that, to this day, especially in community and of country, times in Aboriginal politics. owners, lawyers and time on the campaign trail: if a particular electorate these times of Black Lives something I witnessed The Northern Territory Land Rights Act – anthropologists to do their “This was the use of was saying that it did Matter and beyond. many times sitting commonwealth legislation – was under threat, even jobs, while he would work the disgusting tactic of not want a Catholic, Throughout his around the campfire. under the newly elected Hawke Labor government from dawn to dusk in creating the idea of ‘real’ [the CLP] would run an childhood here in Darwin, To all of you who have which was threatening to water down the veto power of the camp kitchen. Aboriginals. By this, they anti-Catholic campaign he revelled in his Chinese come to mark Jack’s life, traditional owners over mining and other developments Memories, too, of the mean that the only real or, if the electorate was and Aboriginal heritages. let these, and the many And, then there was the promise of national land 1988 Barunga festival Aboriginals are the so- saying it did not want a His mates at school were other stories that surround rights legislation to fight for. where – after long called full-bloods who Vietnamese, or Chinese the Greeks and Italians and his time on earth, live on. At the time, both those causes had Jack shuttling back discussions between the live in the bush. The rest or Greek or Cypriot as its Anglos he shared school In the words of Archie and forth to Canberra to lobby any federal politician he late Wenten Rubuntja and are not ‘real’ Aboriginal representative, he would rooms with, and beyond Roach: “This story’s right, could buttonhole. Galarrwuy Yunupingu – people. They are half- mount campaigns against that to the basketball this story’s true. I would Jack and his cohort were so notorious around the prime minister Bob Hawke castes and yellafellas. those ethnic groups? Of courts and rugby league not tell lies to you.” corridors of Old Parliament House that they became committed to a treaty. “For better or worse, course not. That would be and Aussie rules fields. May they become known as “the flying wedge” – although, he could never That was 32 years ‘yellafella’ refers to skin immoral, shameful and In his teen years, as a the light on the hill for be called the thin end of that. NT Chief Minister Michael Gunner, who once worked as Jack's chief of staff, spoke of ago, and we still wait for colour, not whether you contemptible. However, stockman, a truckie and all of us – even through his authenticity. that commitment to see are this thing called a that is precisely what the a labourer, he worked the dark moments.

6 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 7 OBITUARY NEWS Remembering Jack: 'A big man with a big vision' NLC works to re-purpose items for remote community members By Andy Ralph, NLC Jabiru

Senator Dodson (on right) said Jack worked during a difficult time in land rights.

The old Aurora Kakadu has closed its doors.

Farewell old Aurora Kakadu! May 3 was a day with a nostalgic feel when work started to demolish the iconic Aurora Kakadu Resort at South Alligator River.

BUILT in 1976, the South rooms of articles left Alligator Motor Inn was behind destined for the first of many tourist the rubbish tip. facilities that were built They collected in World Heritage- serviceable items, listed Kakadu National including beds, fridges, Jack in the front row on right Park, including the blankets and pillows. NLC's Regional Development Team helped deliver items to Manabudurma (Jabiru Town Camp). famous Crocodile Hotel These goods were developed in 1988 by distributed to residents traditional owners and at Manabadurma Gagudju Association. (Town Camp) in Many long term NLC Jabiru and nearby members would well Aboriginal communities. remember many meetings The staff at NLC's held at the South Alligator Jabiru office thank the Motor Inn, stretching back Regional Development over thirty years. Team for their hard work. Days prior to Great work! demolition, staff from the NLC’s Regional Development Team swung into action and helped clear motel NLC's Stephen Abala and Andy Ralph.

8 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 9 NEWS NEWS Treaty bill formally passed in Parliament NT land councils unite to demand safe drinking The NT Parliament has formally passed the Treaty Commissioner Bill 2020 that establishes an water laws independent office of the Treaty Commissioner.

ABORIGINAL Affairs they have been part Minister Selena Uibo said of this all-important in Parliament on 23 June process,” he said. 2020 the Bill “will act to “The key role of the formalise an agreement Treaty Commissioner between First Nations must be to achieve real people, the government change and substantive and Territorians.” long-term benefits for “Aboriginal Territorians Aboriginal people.” have been fighting for a The Bill formally long time for treaty or implements the Barunga treaties. It is time we Agreement of 1988 that listened to their voices as it sets out the aspirations is far overdue,” she said. of First Nations people, The Bill converts the including the rights to self- appointment last year determination and self- of Treaty Commissioner management and freedom Treaty Commissioner Prof. Mick Dodson and Deputy Treaty Commissioner Ursula Raymond Professor Mick Dodson to pursue economic, 'The Barunga Statement was signed at the 1988 Barunga Festival in the presence of the Territory’s Aboriginal leaders and I became an interpreter then Prime Minister Bob Hawke. because of the Three years later the Yothu language barrier Yindi band released the hit song Treaty, a powerful reminder between Indigenous The executive councils of the four NT land councils met in Darwin in July. They called for urgent legislation to ensure access to safe drinking water. for First Nations people and non-Indigenous The executive councils of the four three hours northwest of Centralian Advocate that Territory is completely of self-determination and people. Northern Territory land councils Alice Springs, are drinking there was a disturbing lack unregulated,” she said. self-management.' water that contains three of safeguards in the NT. Ms Howie said South have united in condemning the times the level of uranium “The first thing to Australia has set a good from a consultancy to social, religious and 'unacceptable' lack of protection for than is recommended note is that there is a example with their statutory appointment. cultural development. as safe by the World complete absence of any safe drinking water The Deputy Treaty The Barunga Statement safe and adequate drinking water in Health Organisation. laws around safe drinking Act which involves Commissioner is was signed at the 1988 the NT. "The lack of legislative water across the NT, but audits and licencing for Ursula Raymond. Barunga Festival in protection out bush particularly drinking water providers. The role of the the presence of the MEETING in Darwin with experiencing poor water is discriminatory and water provisions in remote Treaty Commissioners Territory’s Aboriginal Aboriginal Interpreter Service NT Chief Minister Michael quality and water stresses. constitutes negligence by commutes in the Northern Interpreঞng · Recordings · Training includes to consult with leaders and then Prime Gunner and opposition NLC Chairman Samuel the Northern Territory Aboriginal people and their Minister Bob Hawke. party leaders, the land Bush-Blanasi said: "All Government," he said. representative bodies in Three years later the councils called for urgent Territorians, not just those "That's why we want the Territory about their Yothu Yindi band released legislation to ensure that living in major towns, whoever forms the next ROYALTY ENQUIRY support for a treaty or the hit song Treaty, a Do you speak an Aboriginal all Territorians have access have a right to safe and NT government to bring treaties and on a suitable powerful reminder for to safe drinking water. adequate drinking water”. in legally enforceable Do you have a payment framework to further First Nations people of language and English? The land councils want disbursement (royalty) enquiry? treaty negotiations with self-determination and all parties to commit to 'Bush voters deserve to know how the Territory Government. self-management. The Aboriginal Interpreter Service offers exible hours, travel, enacting a Safe Drinking the parties are planning to ensure Chief Minister Professor Dodson Water Act that provides Contact NLC Royalties Hotline training, career opportuni�es and the chance to help people they can enjoy this right to safe Michael Gunner told released an interim report and keep language alive. regulatory protection and Parliament the COVID-19 in March 2020 and has accountability for the safe drinking water.' pandemic has delayed delivered a detailed and adequate water for all. the Treaty Commission’s discussion paper to the If you speak an Aboriginal language and English, and want to Communities "Bush voters deserve to minimum standards 1800 769 2589 consultations in Chief Minister. nd out more about becoming an interpreter, call throughout the NT – from know how the parties are for drinking water remote communities. 1800 334 944 or visit www.ais.nt.gov.au. the north to the south, planning to ensure they quality and security. “I know they will do a and including Kintore, can enjoy this right." Darwin-based Visit us at 45 Mitchell Street thorough and careful job Yuendumu, Willowra, Central Land Council researcher at the Housing in Darwin or email us at of ensuring traditional Department of LOCAL GOVERNMENT, Mutitjulu, Willora, chief executive Joe Martin- for Health Incubator at owners and all Aboriginal HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Utopia, Alpurrurulam, Jard said residents of the the University of Sydney [email protected] Territorians will feel and Laramba – are Laramba community, Kirsty Howey told the

10 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 11 CARING FOR COUNTRY Press CARINGCTRL and FOR SHIFT COUNTRY to edit Kenbi Rangers get new Indian Island station Kenbi Rangers inspire next generation to care the shortfall from their logistics, communication for country with action-packed camp fee for service work. Much with contract builders of this additional money and architects. THE Kenbi Rangers, along bottle and sun hat. for turtle eggs. On their was incurred by the need Kenbi Rangers utilised with a number of supporters Day one of the camp return trip home they to use helicopters to their two marine vessels on and stakeholders, hosted involved a trip to Bare spotted bottlenose dolphins uplift all of the building a regular basis to provide a junior ranger camp Sand Island on board the in Bynoe Harbour and an materials to the Island. support throughout the over three days in July at Sea Darwin vessels. The Australian submarine in Charles Point as part of kids were up at the crack Darwin Harbour. Day two “The field station will provide a their ongoing commitment of dawn and fed a cooked was a full day of talks and base for future research projects to engaging with the breakfast. Lunches for the workshops with kids from local community. trip were made by the kids Wagait Beach joining in. on Indian Island,” said Kenbi Children aged from five the night before with the Kenbi Rangers would like Ranger Coordinator to 12 years from Belyuen assistance of parents. to thank all the supporters, Steven Brown. and Darwin and their parents and guardians were 'The kids were lucky enough to The project kicked project, transporting invited to camp at Charles hold Flatback turtle hatchlings into gear in January builders/rangers, fuel, Point over three days to that were being looked after by 2020 with builders and water, ice, food and smaller participate in the camp. Rangers coordinating building materials and Children from Wagait Beach the researchers.' the uplift of the majority requirements. The major were also invited. The kids were lucky stakeholders, parents and of materials required to lift by helicopter over the Fifty children attended enough to hold Flatback volunteers who contributed The field station has now been completed on Indian Island build the field station from course of this project was a the camp - 35 who camped turtle hatchlings that and assisted with the camp. Rankin Point to our site 25,000L water tank. This and another 15 from were being looked after by Encouraging children AFTER two years of that would enable our was made to the NT on Indian Island. provided some logistical Wagait Beach who joined the researchers. to engage and interact with camping with Melbourne staff to camp in a much Government for funding “The field station will headaches given the size of in with the activities The researchers gave a rangers to learn about land University researchers safer environment. for this project. We were provide a base for future the tank. The final projects on the Thursday. talk about the turtles that and sea management and and Rangers on the beach Kenbi Rangers secured successful in securing a research projects on to finish off the field station Upon arrival the kids nest on Bare Sand Island conservation was the aim at Indian Island, Kenbi a parcel of land on Indian grant of $100,000. After Indian Island,” said Kenbi will be the installation of a received a bag that included and how to protect their of the camp - we hope it Rangers made a decision Island through a Section designs were sought, Ranger Coordinator Steven chemical toilet and security a Kenbi fishing shirt, habitat. They also had an inspired the next generation to explore the possibility 19 agreement through we had an approximate Brown, who took on the screens to windows, posters, stickers, drink opportunity to go digging of future rangers. Will Mayor holding a baby Flatback turtle. of building a ranger field the NLC and traditional $120,000 shortfall. Kenbi responsibility of project as well as fencing and station on the Island owners. An application Rangers agreed to cover management to coordinate signage to the site. Malak Malak Rangers use weevils to control one of Australia's worst weeds

SALVINIA molesta is a floating aquatic fern and is regarded as one of the worst aquatic weeds in Australia. It grows quickly to form thick mats covering billabongs, slow moving rivers and other water ways. There is a specific weevil, a small black insect, which is the biocontrol agent for this weed. They help to clear up infested salvinia water ways by feeding on the plants and damaging the leaves, which causes it to sink to the bottom. The Malak Malak Rangers have dealt with salvinia Kids disembark the boat for Kenbi camp previously between 2006 and 2014. This was done by our senior women but lapsed because of their age and the passing of the Wangamaty Land Management coordinator who had worked closely with them. A year ago, representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources approached the Malak Malak Rangers to raise these weevils, they gave us tubs and advice on how to breed and raise them. Matt Rawlinson from the Djurrubu Rangers from the Kakadu area supplied us with our first lot of weevils. In late 2019 we supplied the first lot of weevils to the Wudi Rangers and early this year we supplied the Thamarrurr Rangers with an initial quantity. Our goal now is to continue to develop this project and to be able to supply these biocontrol agents to the groups across the western Top End region. Aaron Green helping to use weevils to control Salvinia. Ellah Mukundi using the sun to make a photo. The group all ready for their boat trip to Bare Sand Island.

12 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 13 CARING FOR COUNTRY CARINGELECTION FOR 2020 COUNTRY

children’s educational Coolroom breakdowns – no problem! Children entertainment in the form of a turtle show, camera trap demonstration and go hunting at Wagiman Culture Camp a simple solar powered By Kathrine Carver grasshopper fun exercise. Wagiman families also participated in weeds discussions, croc safety talks and biosecurity chats with representatives from Territory Natural Resource Management, Croc Wise, and the Department of Agriculture, Water and Flying over Guwardagun on the way to Ejong Billabong, the Environment. checking out Wagiman traditional homelands from above. It had been an extraordinary week of events, and before we knew it, the weekend was upon us. A feeling of sadness descended upon us, as we came to accept that the camp was over for another year. Indeed, some Jasmin Huddleston, Jabul Huddleston and Kathrine Carver families chose to stay on for the weekend to enjoy that special connection that only being out bush can bring! The enthusiasm of the children, and the dedication and efforts of guests and rangers, certainly gives rise to communal hope that the annual Wagiman Culture Camp will continue into the future. 'We made a big earth oven to cook that lamang so tender.' Arthur Muggleton

Wagiman children enjoying being on country. Images by Kathrine Carver

The otherwise quiet heritage site of coolroom breakdowns! quick to get a feed of turtle (ILSC) attended to share Sawmill on the Wagiman Aboriginal This turned out to be when it is on the menu. information and glean a blessing in disguise. Luckily we were able to some Wagiman ideas on Land Trust came to life on July 13 when How? It highlighted the catch enough turtle for the proposed Savanna the annual Wagiman Culture Camp - Wagiman ability to adapt everyone. We sourced the Fire Management and to find solutions. turtles from a few different Carbon Abatement with its diverse lineup of informative Instead of BBQ-ing locations on the land trust, Project. Through this and entertaining guests – kicked off. meat over the course of making sure that we did proposal, ILSC were able the week, the bullocky that not over catch in one area. to generously provide had been butchered to Wagiman kids and some funding towards the WAGIMAN families During the weeks provide meat for the camp adults alike, cooked and culture camp this year. welcomed guests to their leading up to the camp, was cooked all at once in a ate on site at the fishing Helicopter rides allowed Country, ensuring they Wagiman Rangers big traditional earth oven. spots as well as back traditional owners and were as comfortable as constructed a bough shed, The succulent aroma of at camp. With hungry select others to view parts possible. Families also had which served well as the tender beef cuts from the tummies taken care of, of the Land Trust that the time themselves to central cooking and eating earth oven had everyone’s dinnertime proved to be a are now inaccessible by reconnect with country and area, as well as a hub for mouths watering. We non-event on one evening road, and also allowed for enjoy their bush heritage. social gatherings. feasted upon this for two because no one could direct feedback regarding This year family groups Of course there were a days, topped up with salad, eat another thing! potential burning activities and guests camped in few modern conveniences, vegetables and bread rolls. Guest speakers and around sacred sites different locations around such as a generator for After the beef was gone, entertainers provided in the future. Rainbow Dreaming electricity and cool rooms we decided that we would information and Carla Eisemberg and Billabong, just past the for perishable food, but catch our food for the entertainment throughout Isabel Ely, freshwater Claravale Crossing. In the best laid plans can be rest of the week. the week. Paul Donohoe turtle experts who became Wagiman language, the fraught with dramas – Turtles are a Wagiman from Indigenous Land affectionately known as area is known as Jagud. there was not one, but two delicacy and you have to be & Sea Corporation ‘the turtle ladies’, provided Jasmin Huddleston holds a turtle. Daphne Huddleston bakes delicious damper.

14 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 15 CARING FOR COUNTRY NEWS Call to election candidates: ‘Grow and secure Ranger Compliance Support Project in full swing Aboriginal Ranger Grants Program’ Article by Country Needs People

ONE thing that’s clear Protected Areas and the Nowadays rangers to anyone who spends many other ways that use helicopters and drip any time in the NT is people care for country. torches, quad bikes and how much traditional The work being done computers, seagoing owners worry about, care shows the strength of boats and underwater for and work on their ongoing connection to cameras. They are bringing traditional land and sea. country, driven at its two knowledge systems This has been going on foundation by traditional together to care for for thousands of years. law passed down from country, local traditional Before Europeans showed senior men and women. knowledge and western up, before ‘Landcare’, before cattle came and 'Traditional owners in the NT cities were built. Knowledge about have been at the forefront of the country and the resurgence of Indigenous land Compliance training is underway. Jamie Damaso, John Moreen, Rex Sing, Steven Brown, Jack Gardner, Zoe Singh, Ritsuko Maeda and Andrew Wellings. responsibilities of and sea management...' Wagiman Ranger Jasmin Huddleston traditional law weaved A brief introduction to NLC's Indigenous Ranger through every aspect of Traditional owners in science. But it still comes communities and by useful funding to support Compliance Support Project life then. What might the NT have been at the back to the fundamental ensuring ongoing culturally this work through the surprise a lot of new forefront of the resurgence foundation of having the based management Aboriginal Ranger Grants FOLLOWING the Ranger Compliance (IRCS) project staff. visitors is how much is of Indigenous land and right people for those land lives on in the land and program. Many ranger completion of a Support Project. The project aims to still happening across sea management with and sea areas in charge and young people, not just in teams in the Territory comprehensive assessment In November 2019 ensure that Indigenous the Territory to keep the support of the Caring being true to their law. museums. Because of this have taken advantage of of the current 'state of funding was provided to ranger groups across people and country for Country units of the This work doesn’t vital work, the Country this program to get vital play' regarding NLC ranger develop and implement the NLC region are healthy. These days Northern and Central only benefit local people Needs People network equipment like quad program compliance priority foundational appropriately trained, that work continues Land Councils, and more through jobs and work works with traditional bikes, build ranger sheds, needs and opportunities, activities projects, resourced and supported Bulgul Rangers undertaking compliance training. under the watchful eye recently this modern on their land and sea. owners to help promote country planning, and to the NLC sourced funding facilitated with the to undertake targeted and effectively. operational areas, relevant of senior traditional ranger work has spread Every Australian benefits these positive stories undertake turtle project from National Indigenous employment of dedicated compliance activities This project will provide Indigenous Protected owners through the work to Tiwi and Anindilyakwa through having a healthier and keep the pressure on work. But we need to Australians Agency (NIAA) Indigenous Ranger on their traditional land compliance support to 12 Areas and the surrounding of rangers, Indigenous Land Council regions. environment, stronger governments to respond keep it going. The initial to establish the Indigenous Compliance Support and sea estates safely NLC ranger groups, their Aboriginal Land Trusts. in the right way. funding was only for four Governments need to years, and we need to see invest in keeping people continue past the election Monitoring report reflects strength of program and country healthy by for another four years at securing and growing least. The Country Needs NLC’s Community Planning decision-making money for community funding for positive work People network is working and Development (CP&D) processes in place, and benefit, nor the connection on country. Tackling to make sure all NT election Program published its strong commitment from between specific projects weeds like Gamba Grass candidates know how second monitoring report Aboriginal people to long- and the likely benefits. or Buffel Grass, hunting important it is to grow in June 2020. The 2019 term management of their Further, the CP&D Program ferals, protecting sacred and secure the Aboriginal monitoring report details resources for group benefit. needs more opportunities sites, managing fire with Ranger Grants Program. the strengths of the three Trust in NLC remains for Aboriginal people to traditional knowledge To build on the work the year old Program and high among those who speak on their progress and and science, doing traditional owners, rangers what needs changing to take part in the CP&D their values of projects, and research that informs and land councils are doing. deliver greater benefits for Program. Traditional share their views with other management. This work This is about backing the Aboriginal groups. Owners continue to fund Aboriginal groups. is just as important as work of traditional owners La Trobe University projects that value culture Monitoring helps the police, nurses, doctors and on country with real analysed data collected and traditional Aboriginal NLC keep on track and other services that benefit dollars and in this time of across all CP&D authority and practices. heading towards goals set all Australians. economic rebuilding, we projects during 2019 to Researchers also by Traditional Owners. For the last four years, need more than ever to develop the report. found that not everyone The CP&D Program 2019 Sophie and Veronica Simon talk about how they check up the Territory Government keep this going. Research shows understands the CP&D Monitoring Report is to make sure their project is on track and how people in the has provided some really that there is good process for allocating available at www.nlc.org.au. community can be part of the 'checking up' team.

16 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 17 COMMUNITY PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT COMMUNITY PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT Best-fit governance in action for community ‘I want to excel’: young Galiwin’ku local thrives development projects in traditional owner-funded position

THE NLC’s Community Planning and Development Evellena Wanambi loves her job as a Youth Sport and Recreation (YSR) Officer at the East (CP&D) Program is working with different Aboriginal land-owning groups to help them achieve development Arnhem Regional Council in Galiwin’ku. Thanks to funding provided by Galiwin’ku traditional on their own terms. owners, she is employed to support young people in her community to reach their potential. Each group is using locally appropriate governance Traditional owners are supporting this employment through their youth diversion project, which arrangements to plan and develop projects for their future. CP&D knows that each group is different and they are delivering using the NLC’s Community Planning and Development Program. it is important that local Aboriginal people are making decisions about their development work at each step of CAN you tell readers a a fulltime coordinator. coordinators when needed; opportunities like elite group], basketball and the way, in a way that suits them. Here some examples of bit about yourself? I am passionate about being safe at work; and sports pathways and volleyball; running different decision making structures. My name is Evellena providing educational, being a good role model entertainment activities. community events, such Milimarr Wanambi, sport and recreation for young people. YSR is one of the only as the colour run, disco Galiwin’ku Community Gungayunamirr Mala but everyone calls me programs for the youth. services to entertain youth. and festivals; facilitating All clans involved in CP&D work at Galiwin’ku have Miliy. My skin name is Young people and the and supporting youth elected representatives to work together and plan and Galikali. My clan group is 'Galiwin'ku is an isolated community find the shop and adults in Women’s develop projects. The working group is call the Galiwin’ku Marrangu. My Homeland community, which makes it hard and travelling expensive, AFL training, Galiwin’ku Community Gungayunamirr Mala. The working group is Raymangirr. I am 24 which limits money spent Football League and inter has planned seven projects that all support young people. years old and I have lived for young people to be exposed on opportunities. community competitions; in Galiwinku my whole life. to opportunities like elite sports and facilitating hunting SEAL IPA Galiwin’ku Community Gungayunamirr Mala I completed my schooling pathways and entertainment What are some of the and bush trips for families The Advisory Committee for the South East Arnhem in Shepherdson College. highlights since you’ve Land (SEAL) Indigenous Protected Area (IPA) is a formal I enjoy cooking food and activities. YSR is one of the only been in the job? What do you want to committee representing the clan groups of SEAL, with playing sports. My sports services to entertain Since working at sport do in the future? equal representatives from Numbulwar and Ngukurr. are football, basketball young people.' and rec I have seen many I would like to excel The Advisory Committee is responsible for implementing and volleyball. kids, youth and families as an YSR Coordinator the IPA Plan of Management and planning and making My role consists of What are some engaged and having a and fulfil the roles and decisions about community development projects. What is your job? assisting and supporting challenges great time attending our responsibilities involved. Sometimes the Ngukurr and Numbulwar members meet I started working at the delivery of the Youth, faced by young program. Some of the And in the future I would separately to plan their next community development sport and recreation Sport and Recreation people at Galiwin’ku? highlights of my career like to be a respected projects. But the group always comes together to make in 2016 as a casual (YSR) program; helping Galiwin’ku is an include: running sport community leader. decisions about how best to use income from the employee. In 2018 I with after-school care and isolated community, which competitions, such as carbon abatement ranger work for the benefit of the became part time and in vacation care; helping makes it hard for young edor [a chasing-and- traditional owners. 2020 I was promoted to the senior officer and people to be exposed to tagging game for a large Milwarapara-Yutpundji traditional owners The Milwarapara-Yutpundji traditional owners have elected a working group to do the planning work for their development projects. The working group has eight members from the wider traditional owner group. Proxies are also nominated to ensure there is always a quorum at meetings. Working group members do the project Members of the Milwarapara-Yutpundji working group planning and get all the information together ready for when all traditional owners come get together to make a decision about doing the projects. Rak Papangala traditional owners Rak Papangala traditional owners decided to work as one group altogether to plan their community development projects. They are a small family and all members of the clan, young and old, meet together to discuss and decide on their community development projects. Malak Malak traditional owners Malak Malak traditional owners have a working group with a strong track record for meeting regularly to plan and develop projects prioritised by the traditional owner group. Working group members research project ideas and potential project partners and then discuss their findings with the whole Malak Malak group at meetings.

Rak Papangala family group Evellena Wanambi has secured a traditional owner-funded position at the East Arnhem Regional Council.

18 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 19 HEALTH HEALTH Time to speak the truth on what it means to be Larrakia, Tiwi and Yol\u stories to inspire a First Nations person with disability better healthcare for Aboriginal patients The Disability Royal Commission is urging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to tell their stories about violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation of First Nations people with disability.

ANDREA Mason OAM could be trying to force is one of the seven someone to do something Commissioners on the they don’t want to do Royal Commission. or stopping someone The former CEO of from doing something the Ngaanyatjarra they do want to do. Pitjantjatjara It can mean individuals Yankunytjatjara Women's or organisations using Council said it’s time to someone who has a speak the truth about disability to get their what it means to be a money without permission, First Nations person taking their resources with disability. like food or water or “I want to assure housing, or even taking all First Nations advantage of them people, their families, physically or sexually. communities, advocates Neglect happens when Andrea Mason OAM and organisations that someone with a disability this Royal Commission, is not given their basic Royal Commission. making a submission, by your experiences with a is a safe place to necessities in life. This may “We want to hear about phone, in writing or by Royal Commissioner in Stuart Yiwarr McGrath, Vicki Kerrigan, Aunty Bilawara Lee and Rarrtjiwuy Melanie Herdman share your stories. be food, water, housing or what changes are needed making an audio or video a confidential setting. “Hearing about the a place to live, or access to support the human recording. Submissions It can be in person, A new podcast called Ask the Specialist reveals the reality of the hospital experience for Aboriginal patients in experiences of community to essential services like rights of First Nations can be in any language. via video conferencing the Top End of the Northern Territory and offers ideas to improve the delivery of culturally respectful care. members with disability education or health. people with disability People can also register or on the phone. will help us to make Exploitation happens throughout their lives,” for a private session. recommendations for when a person or said Commissioner Mason. This allows you to share RARRTJIWUY Melanie Ms Herdman said. leaders: Aunty Bilawara who have to enter the The series is available to change to make sure organisation takes As well as responding Herdman is a Yolŋu leader, Created on Larrakia Lee, Pirrawayingi western medical system,” download on Spotify and people can live a life free advantage of someone else. to issues papers, people a health professional and country by Menzies School Puruntatameri, Rarrtjiwuy Larrakia Elder Aunty Apple Podcasts. from violence, abuse, This can be using someone can share their story with one of the Specialists of Health Research with Melanie Herdman and Bilawara Lee said. neglect and exploitation. who has a disability to the Royal Commission by in this unique Territory Aboriginal community Stuart Yiwarr McGrath. They share personal 'Hearing about the experiences 'I want to know what experiences as patients, of community members with Aboriginal people feel when professional experiences ROYALTY ENQUIRY disability will help us to make we talk to them, what makes as health workers and cultural knowledge. recommendations for change to them think we're racist?' The Specialists hope make sure people can live a life health podcast. In the leaders and Royal Darwin their stories, which elevate free from violence, abuse, neglect podcast, she shares Hospital staff, the seven- the Aboriginal patient’s Do you have a payment her own experience in episode series answers perspective and challenge disbursement (royalty) enquiry? and exploitation.' the hospital and gives doctors’ questions negative stereotypes that “Violence, abuse, get their money without practical examples of about working with fuel racism, inspire health neglect and exploitation permission, or taking their how healthcare could be Aboriginal patients. workers to reflect on their Contact NLC Royalties Hotline can happen anywhere resources like food or better provided to patients Questions range from beliefs so they can deliver and in different types of water or housing. in the Top End. the practical: “Is it ok to culturally safe care. settings, in community, The Royal Commission “Most of my family make eye contact?” to "The knowledge shared 1800 769 2589 at school, in the health recently released an issues who go to hospital, they issues at the heart of social in these podcasts must and criminal justice paper about First Nations believe they are going there justice: “I want to know be communicated as systems and more,” said people with disability and to die. I have had family what Aboriginal people feel widely as possible so that Visit us at 45 Mitchell Street Commissioner Mason. is inviting responses. who have chosen to die at like when we talk to them, the health workforce is in Darwin or email us at Violence and abuse “This is an opportunity home instead of going to what makes them think better prepared to support could be someone for First Nations people hospital because they have that we're racist?”. Aboriginal and Torres [email protected] physically hurting you to share their insights seen other families struggle The Specialists are Strait Islander people or treating you badly. It and expertise with the Andrea Mason OAM with Erin McKenzie and young Rickisha. with being in hospital,” Larrakia, Tiwi and Yolŋu

20 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 21 NEWS HISTORY Indigenous-run work camps aim to cut crime ‘We intend to protect that part of Australia which Article supplied by the NT Government has been entrusted to us’: Galarrwuy Yunupingu’s YOUTH intervention responsibility, work work camps on a remote ethic and experience and historic speech Territory cattle station problem solving skills. will help prevent at-risk The Government young Territorians from is partnering with the This is part two of a speech given by the former Chairman offending or re-offending. Jarrdimba Bayamuku of the Northern Land Council on 10 November 1977 at the The Territory Government Aboriginal Corporation is investing $4.5 million to run the camps on the National Press Club Luncheon in Canberra. The first part of over five years to develop 4,300 square km station this speech was printed in the previous edition (June edition) short and long-term that has frontage to camps at the Seven Emu the Gulf of Carpentaria of Land Rights News. Station, 85km south- and the Robinson and east of Borroloola. Calvert Rivers. The camps will focus The corporation’s on building young people’s chairperson Frank cultural knowledge and Shadforth said the identity, understanding ‘Jarrdimba Bayamuku of consequences, Strengthening Children’ development of personal program will help young Frank Shadforth has been mentoring troubled kids at Seven Emu Station for the last 30 years. Photo courtesy of ABC Katherine: Jon Daly

people reconnect with their and how best to work The young people are culture while teaching with them and we are expected to come primarily them basic work skills, confident that we can from the Borroloola, including work on a cattle help young people to take Big Rivers and Top End station, tourism on country the right path in life,” Mr regions, however referrals and commercial bush Shadforth said. will be accepted and tucker and medicine. Ten-day camps will assessed Territory-wide. The Shadforth family be for young people aged FOR this reason I believe We intend to protect have already submitted to Energy Commission probable that there will has been helping at-risk between 10 and 17 who will that the Northern Land that part of Australia Ranger our long and very and uranium company be a new and special form young people for 30 years. accompanied by support Council is well qualified which has been entrusted detailed draft agreement, representatives. I reveal of exploration licensing. “As Aboriginal people staff such as case workers, to do its statutory duty, to us, writing into any which has all Judge Fox’s it as a strong protest, It is highly probable that The Jarrdimba Bayamuku program is a mix of vocational we understand their youth workers, school which is to research agreements the strictest recommendations in because the Northern Land tendering will be used training and cultural lessons about life on country. emotions and their needs representatives or Elders. and then present land environmental safeguards, it. It is the best mining Council should certainly to allocate exploration claims to Aboriginal land and we will be there agreement ever written have been represented at in this area.” That is the Commissioner Justice watching to enforce them. in Australia. However, that meeting, as the body end of one quote. Toohey, who will make We didn’t want uranium it is no better than empowered and obliged So there will be Milingimbi houses underway as water supply secured his recommendations mining or any mining on agreements which are by Act of Parliament exploration on land which Article supplied by the NT Government to the Government. For our land. But, of course, being written all the time to negotiate with the we claim, but the Northern example, the Judge is just Nabalco has been mining Land Council is not being FOR years residents of a supplies were sustainable has been solved, with which includes Homebuild percent of workers on finishing in Darwin the and treating bauxite at 'We live on our land, we love consulted about this. picturesque community into the future. studies revealing the NT and Room to Breathe. remote housing projects be hearing of land claims Gove for some years and it, we are nothing without it. Finally, this confidential nestled in the Crocodile Elder and local school groundwater yield was Government policy Aboriginal Territorians. for 1,119 square miles in BHP has been mining Governments can give away land report said, and I quote Islands archipelago off staff member Elizabeth significantly higher than stipulates that up to 50 the Borroloola area of manganese on Groote for short term gain, financial, “It is obvious that the Arnhem Land feared Ganygulpa says she dreamt previously understood. the Gulf country. Eylandt since the 1960s. producers have split their fresh underground that one day her low- Mr McCarthy Our other statutory And now people are trying economic, even political. We ranks on issues of the water supply would run lying island would have announced during a visit to duty is to safeguard to force us to accept that intend to protect that part development plan and that out or be contaminated enough fresh water for the the island on 21 July that Aboriginal land from mining, uranium mining of Australia which has been there is a spirit of fierce with salt water. around 1,440 residents to if returned to office at the developers or, when will go ahead. But we competition between them. Assessments of the grow and prosper. August Territory elections, necessary negotiate with insist that we don’t want entrusted to us.' I envisage that the unity supply forced a delay “Finally, Milingimbi the Territory Labor mining companies, not uranium mining. And I in other developing parts mining companies. shown by the forum will in Milingimbi being is going to have enough Government will deliver only to protect Aboriginal illustrate it, the feelings of the world. But this Nothing should be hidden disappear as soon as the included in the Territory fresh water...we are 32 new homes, extend land but also to protect and the reaction of draft agreement is, of from the Council. formal development plan Labor Government’s going to have space to and renovate 20 more the long term interests of traditional owners when course, confidential. The report said – “The gets underway.” $1.1 billion 10-year breathe. Finally, we are in and repair others over European Australian too, I told you this little story But I will reveal the text Government will shortly So it is to be “fierce program to build and the business of building the coming years. Sixty because Aboriginal land about Jimmy and Toby. of another confidential issues guidelines for competition” to explore upgrade houses in remote houses once again,” Ms serviced lots over a number is part of Australia. We The Northern Land document which reports the exploration of stage and exploit our land, Aboriginal communities. Ganygulpa said. of subdivisions will also be live on our land, we love Council has started its a meeting in Canberra two of Kakadu National for more and more The Government Ms Ganygulpa had constructed in readiness it, we are nothing without negotiations with Ranger. on September the 9th Park. The goal of these uranium, and our acknowledged the need just heard the Territory’s for new houses. Work will it. Governments can give I was at the first meeting between the Secretary guidelines will be orderly Northern Land Council for housing upgrades Housing Minister Gerry be carried out under the away land for short term in Darwin on October the of the Department of exploration. The guidelines is not being told about it. on the island but said it McCarthy announce that Government’s job-creating Government policy stipulates that up to 50 per cent of workers gain, financial, economic, 5th and we will be meeting National Resources, the will be developed within What kind of people do first had to be sure water Milingimbi’s water issue remote housing program, on remote housing projects be Aboriginal Territorians. even political. again in Darwin soon. We Secretary of the Atomic a month or so. It is most they think we are!

22 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 23 ELECTION 2020 ELECTION 2020 NT Labor looks ahead at a critical juncture in ‘We want to walk the journey with land councils’ the Territory's history LEADER: TERRY MILLS PARTY: TERRITORY ALLIANCE LEADER: MICHAEL GUNNER PARTY: LABOR

UNDER my leadership people to see sense. telecommunications, we will walk a journey At the heart of the housing, safe drinking together to improve the great work done by the water. These are projects lives and opportunities of Land Councils has been that also help rebuild Aboriginal Territorians, protecting land, air our Territory through regardless of where they improve lives and traditions and aspirations, live, understanding that 'At the heart of the great work leads to better health, and in a time frame they the further from urban education and lifestyle. are comfortable with. centres the greater the done by the land councils The CLP built only Through the Blue Mud unmet need, the greater has been protecting land, one remote house in its Bay Agreement negotiated the poverty and that air and sea while seeking last year in office - they with the Northern Land this remains the most just don’t get it. Council we’re supporting significant challenge for out regional economic We’ve appointed traditional land and sea any Territory government. development opportunities.' Treaty Commissioner owners to realise their In May Territory Professor Mick Dodson aspirations by capitalising Alliance made a public and sea while seeking providing the bedrock and Deputy Commissioner on the social and economic commitment to improving out regional economic of generating our Ursula Raymond to potential of their ancestral the Prosperity and Rights development opportunities. economic development. investigate how a Treaty land and waters. of Aboriginal people when Aboriginal-led We will invest, but Springs Matt Paterson who politics to do the easy. I did can work for you. The Territory is we provided our policy. innovation and initiatives equally we will take is running in Namatjira. this because there is a lot of Treaty is a new deal at a critical juncture The silence from the other need government support up the task with Regina McCarthy in the hard work to do and I have that recognises the in its history. parties has been deafening so that we can address the Canberra. There needs to Daly, the only Aboriginal the decades of experience, wrongs of the past and This election is a choice – where are their policies? issues of cultural strength, be much more funding candidate of any party relationships and genuine NT Chief Minister Michael Gunner puts you in charge. between putting the For Territory Alliance healing, health, housing, for infrastructure contesting the Daly. Her care to find the pathways We’re working with land Territory first, putting your our Aboriginal Prosperity education, economic across the bush. family are local. We have where I’m learning from councils and Aboriginal lives first, or going back to and Rights policy was development … which We have three George Laughton in you, working with you and In the days ahead Territorians will be voting to elect a people to return control chaos of the past. the foundation of which includes agriculture; Aboriginal candidates. Arafura with Tiwi heritage. we give it our very best. government to lead them during one of the most challenging to communities through We’ve put plans and we believe our work tourism and arts; training The Deputy Mayor of Alice I didn’t come back to We never give up. our Local Decision policies in place that ahead must embrace. and employment and periods we have ever faced with the coronavirus public Straight up Territory caring for country. health emergency. 'We're handing back power Alliance supports the We want to walk the because it should never have been Uluru Statement from the journey with the Land Heart and we will continue Councils to learn what WE'VE been putting the Labor MLA’s Selena Uibo Aboriginal Territorians. taken away in the first place.' to support and fund the needs for a paradigm Territory first and doing (Arnhem), Lawrence Costa My Labor team has Making policy. This is are set to bring great Treaty Commission. This shift. Where you are whatever it takes to save (Arafura), Chansey Paech done more for the bush in making history. economic and social is urgent because sadly we alongside us at the table. lives and jobs. (Gwoja) and to vote for its first term than probably We’re handing back prosperity to Territory. know, as each day passes, The past approaches of My real worry has our candidates Anthony any other Government in power because it should But first we need to too many of our stories are “we know what’s best for been what could happen Venes (Daly) Sid Vashist the Territory’s history. never have been taken work together to get us lost as people pass on. you” has led to substantial if the coronavirus (Barkly) Kate Ganley But there is still a away in the first place. to the other side of this I know we need to policy failure. gets into the bush. (Katherine) and Lynne lot more to do. Local Decision global pandemic. build trust and create We will be deeply I travel the Making a game-changer I’m asking for your vote a government that respectful of songlines and 'My Labor team has done more Territory and listen. recognising that the old to allow Territory Labor doesn’t have a top-down sacred sites. They are the for the bush in its first term than You tell me you way of delivering services to lead us there. approach to policies paths we do not tread. But probably any other Government want better housing, to remote Aboriginal and decisions that we will look to where we better roads, better communities through instead has people with can walk, where people can in the Territory's history. But healthcare and a better central bureaucracies knowledge at the table. be nurtured from the land. there is still more to do.' opportunity for your kids. hasn’t worked and that This is also why our We will ban fracking. Territory Labor’s single local decisions are the policies has Aboriginal Water is life. Without We acted fast to save Walker (Mulka). biggest commitment is best decisions. Expert Panels for water we perish. There is lives and jobs. Now is not the time to our $1.1 billion remote Aboriginal Territorians departments. Working no absolute safeguarding But we can’t become risk it all by going back. housing program. can now proudly take directly with the CEOs of of water from the hydraulic complacent because the Going back to the CLP We’ve already built control of their own lives, departments with monthly fracturing process virus is still wreaking means open borders and a or upgraded more allowing them to oversee reports to the relevant known as fracking. havoc down south. return to a bickering and than 2,000 homes in the development of their Ministers. Not dealing with We know infrastructure I urge all voters to self-indulged government remote communities. own communities in a decisions after they’ve been is crucial to the bush. support the return of our that neglected the bush and Better homes way that fits their culture, made and trying to get The roads, power,

24 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 25 ELECTION 2020 'CLP is committed to working with Aboriginal Territorians' LEADER: LIA FINOCCHIARO PARTY: CLP Aboriginals Benefit Account (ABA) Grant Funding Round

AS I move around the We want to create new territory, I talk with jobs in the territory and to many different people. do that we need to get back Territorians are telling to our strengths. Our clear me they want a stronger strengths are in mining, in future. Territorians gas, in cattle, in agriculture are worried about and in tourism. their jobs, health and Aboriginal people and community safety. Aboriginal businesses play The Country Liberal great roles in all of these Party has a clear plan for areas, and we want to make creating new jobs, safety sure that everything we and opportunity for the do creates good jobs, for future. The CLP has a local people. We also want strong team with the focus to make sure Territorians and feels safe. Aboriginal for drinking water and their kids to school. and commitment to make get training and support Territorians are more also for agriculture. It is important that this plan happen. to take advantage of the than 6 times more likely We must make sure all our kids are going to to be assaulted than non- communities have clean, school every day. 'CLP is committed to working Aboriginal Territorians. safe and reliable drinking CLP is committed to with Aboriginal Territorians Aboriginal Territorians water, year round. working with Aboriginal deserve to be safe in their The CLP is committed Territorians to make sure ROUND OPEN to make sure that they can get own communities and in to creating opportunities that they can get ahead, ahead, get jobs, stay safe and have their own homes. for every Territorian. This get jobs, stay safe and more opportunities. Together Part of being safe is means making sure our have more opportunities. with my great team of candidates, having a home. kids get a good education Together with my great The CLP will work with and are healthy. team of candidates, we we will work hard every day land councils and local We support more will work hard every day Funding for one off projects that benefit Aboriginal people in the NT. to deliver jobs, safety and communities to ensure Aboriginal controlled to deliver jobs, safety ABA supports projects not covered by other government funding. opportunity for all Territorians.' local communities can health clinics and will and opportunity for make decisions around support families to get all Territorians. Before the Covid-19 jobs of the future. local housing Aboriginal controlled organisations based in the NT are encouraged to apply. pandemic our economy Our policies focus on projects to make was the worst performing growing the economy and sure that all in the nation. Covid-19 has attracting investment. the money for Opens: 27 July 2020 Closes: 18 September 2020 caused even more concerns The CLP has big plans housing goes into about the future. to create jobs across the projects that local Many Territorians Territory. We have a policy people want and had lost their jobs and to attract more mines and need. We need businesses closed. Now to get more onshore gas to be creating experts predict that more happening. Agriculture and keeping than 20,000 Territorians presents a big opportunity local people For more information: will lose their jobs. People for local work and growth employed on need jobs to pay the in the regions. housing projects. Contact 1800 354 612 or email [email protected] bills, to have confidence, It’s important that Water security stability and purpose. every Territorian is safe, is very important Or visit www.niaa.gov.au/aba-grants

26 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 27 NT ELECTIONS - Who will get your vote? Land Rights News asked the candidates of the NT's main parties about their policies for the August election.

What will you do to guarantee enough What will you do to guarantee enough What will you do to guarantee enough What will you do to guarantee enough safe water for people out bush? safe water for people out bush? safe water for people out bush? safe water for people out bush? Water for people, families and communities must come first. Labor has Territory Alliance hold the view that access to clean safe drinking water are Every community is different but every community needs safe, secure and NT Greens will legislate a right to drinking water in the NT. Essential a strong record of protecting our water resources so communities get foundations of a civilised society. We will work hard to deliver World Health reliable drinking water. The CLP will utilise technology to ensure access to services will be available to all communities, outstations and town camps, reliable drinking water. We are investing more money to make sure bush Organisation quality of drinking water to make it safe for people to drink. clean drinking water where it is not easily available. There are machines that driven by investment in renewable energy solutions. communities have access to safe and clean water. can turn salty water into drinking water and others that can turn humid air There is more to do and we have plans in place. We will continue to invest What will you do to fix education out into water that need to be explored. What will you do to fix education out more on water, and also work with communities to make sure we don’t bush? bush? waste water. We are also investing in water services as part of the Remote What will you do to fix education out bush? Housing Investment Package which is delivering new and improved houses Territory Alliance believes we need more support for First Nations languages • Reinstate the multilingual programs that were in place in the NT from right across the Territory. and to provide support for Aboriginal staff to become teachers, as well as The CLP knows young people are our future and those who live in regional 1973-2008, ensure the growth of further multilingual school programs providing further in-classroom support and to improve school buildings. and remote areas of the Northern Territory should have the opportunity where English is not a first language for the majority of students. What will you do to fix education for a first class education. We will focus on improving student wellbeing, • Implement further multilingual opportunities for all Indigenous How will you ensure every dollar increasing attendance and engagement, and attracting and training quality students in all government schools. out bush? teachers and assistant teachers. • Establish a dedicated Multilingual Education Work Unit in the NT We have put extra funding and extra teachers back into bush schools across Canberra gives you for our mob is spent Department of Education, to coordinate the development of resources the Territory. We are establishing Local Engagement and Decision-making on the bush, not Darwin? How will you ensure every dollar for multilingual programs and support schools in the implementation of Committees (LEaD Committees) and Community Led Schools to decide how Territory Alliance will work with Canberra to bring more money to the bush Canberra gives you for our mob is spent their programs. education should be delivered in your communities. to meet the big needs to improve housing, health, roads, education and jobs. • Support independent schools to develop and implement multilingual We will continue to establish more Families as First Teachers (FaFT) on the bush, not Darwin? programs, while ensuring that the control of their implementation programs and language and culture programs in schools. A good house The CLP believes the Northern Territory Government, the Commonwealth remains with the communities. means a good education for kids. The Territory Labor Government’s biggest- Will you raise the age of criminal and service providers should work together to make sure that funding for ever project - a $2.1 billion investment in remote housing and land servicing responsibility from 10 to 14 years? Aboriginal communities is actually spent for the benefit of Aboriginal people How will you ensure every dollar – has so far seen the construction and upgrade of around 1800 homes in Territory Alliance takes very seriously the issue of support for the legal Canberra gives you for our mob is spent remote areas across the NT. system and enforcement of that system. We also recognise that dealing with Will you raise the age of criminal on the bush, not Darwin? youth crime is not just a policing matter, there is a big role for education, responsibility? How will you ensure every dollar mental health and family support as well as creating opportunities for youth Successive governments have diverted federal funding allocated on the Canberra gives you for our mob is spent to choose non-criminal actions. It is not appropriate to take one piece of this The CLP supports the current arrangements, where children under 10 years basis of remote need to pork-barrel major population centres. In this way, challenge and shift it without looking at all the other pieces. We will take cannot be held criminal responsibility. There is also a rebuttable presumption mainstream suburban electorates have gorged on the deficit of unmet need on the bush, not Darwin? very seriously the request to raise the minimum age and will consider it in against criminal responsibility for children aged 10 to 14 years, based on the in remote communities. Since coming to Government: Government after meeting with people and listening to them. judge’s decision. All federal funding based on the needs of remote communities must be • We have rolled out a $1.1 billion remote housing program spent in those communities. • We have delivered over $332 million of better bush roads The NT Greens will pursue empowerment of local Community Government • We have invested in better schools and health clinics, and more police Councils to rebuild community capacity to resume control of local service • We have tackled itinerancy and anti-social behaviour provision and replace the failed shires model. Reviving the status of • We have delivered the Territory’s first coordinated alcohol plan local decision-making power and governance must be tailored to each • We are restoring local decision making in housing, community’s vision, ambitions, capacity and needs. health and education. Territory Government expenditure on Aboriginal Territorians is, per capita, Will you raise the age of criminal more than double that for non-Aboriginal Territorians. Our expenditure on Aboriginal Territorians exceeds 52% each year despite being one-third of responsibility from 10 to 14 years? the population. Yes. Our emphasis should be on supporting vulnerable youth to avoid a life of crime. Will you raise the age of criminal Early intervention and diversionary approaches are not only much cheaper than running prisons but are also more effective at reducing a wide range responsibility from 10 to 14 years? of youth offending. We will redirect public funds from the expensive and We support in principle the recommendation from the Royal Commission ineffective prison system towards First Nations-controlled services that into the Protection and Detention of Children in the NT, that the age of address the underlying causes of youth offending. These include but are criminal responsibility be raised from 10 to 12 years. not limited to: early childhood and parenting support to disrupt the care- In order for this law reform to be effective, services also need to be to-detention pipeline; a substantial increase in funding for housing; and established that cater for at-risk children below the age of criminal trauma-informed approaches to alcohol and violence. responsibility. The Territory is collaborating with other states and territories on a national approach to this issue. We are also rolling out programs that focus on 8 – 12 year olds to get them back on track.

28 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 29 SPORT SPORT Footy fans served up great games at Katherine and Barunga

Ashanti Bush kicking for a goal.

Arnhem Crows women's team playing at Barunga.

Ashanti Bush and Tameka Bullen Nitmiluk Oval in Katherine

Kalano Bombers versus the Northern Warlpiri Swans at Nitmiluk Oval in Katherine. Arnhem Crows men's team at Barunga.

30 Land Rights News • Northern Edition August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au August/September 2020 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 31