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April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Learning on Country: connecting school students to work on country
MeetJack Greenthe NLC receives Deputy lifetime Chair FightingNLC slams Gamba illegal grass activity across on the LeadershipMinister Wyatt training talks for Covid-19, Richardachievement Dixon award NorthernAboriginal Territory land womenremote housingrangers and policing
1 Australia’s oldest Aboriginal newspaper. Since 1973. NEWS
EDITORIAL Land Rights News Striking a fair balance between TOs’ Northern Edition is published by Samuel sea country rights and access for Bush-Blanasi for the Northern Land Council. recreational fishers Land Rights News A message about Aboriginal sea country from the NLC Chairman welcomes stories and Samuel Bush-Blanasi photos about Aboriginal people and organisations. High Court of Australia in 2008. Since 2008, the NLC has Contact Bob Gosford built on that win in the High and Leah McLennnan at court by negotiating with the [email protected] NT Government and other stakeholders. All the time, we know we have to protect the rights and interests of the sea country mob. We also have to look after NLC CONTACTS Aboriginal people who want Northern Land Council to do commercial fishing on 45 Mitchell St their land like at Maningrida, Darwin NT 0820 Port Keats and hopefully (08) 8920 5100 more in the future. In 2019 at Nitmiluk, the www.nlc.org.au NLC signed a comprehensive agreement with the NT Government and the other stakeholders. It was the FOLLOW US biggest step forward in 10 years of tough negotiations. @northernlandcouncil In 2020, we signed an implementation agreement with the NT Government. @NLC_74 Recreational fishers can already access more than @northernlandcouncil one thousand kilometres of sea country under Long Watch NLC TV on Mr Bush-Blanasi says fishos need to register before casting a line in Aboriginal coastal waters Term Agreements made YouTube by searching in 2013 on our terms and Northern Land Council HELLO you mob, I want to mob across the Top End miles from the coast. that support strong sea give you an update about welcomed Macassan traders When the Land Rights Act country management. Aboriginal sea country. into our country for many was presented to Parliament From 1 March 2021 From 1 March 2021 years. Aboriginal people by the Whitlam government recreational fishers have SUBSCRIPTIONS there have been some across the Top End were the in October 1975 it allowed been able to register for To subscribe fill changes to how our sea first international traders for sea rights out to 2 miles an automatic permit to out the online form country is dealt with. in this country! from the shoreline. access an additional 2,000 at www.nlc.org.au These changes will mean We lost control of a The Whitlam government kilometres of sea country that our sea country mob lot of our land and sea was thrown out of – again under strong will have more information country for +many years. It government the next month. conditions – until the end about who is on sea country was only in the 1960s and When the Land Rights Act of December 2022. ADVERTISING and why. This will give our 70s that we started to get came back to the Parliament We reckon this rangers more information so organized to fight for our under the Fraser government is a fair deal. Rates are at www.nlc.org. they can protect our sacred Land Rights. At Yirrkala, in 1976, the 2 miles of We are calling this the Blue au/media-publications or sites, homelands and other at Newcastle Waters, at sea rights for Traditional Mud Bay registration process email [email protected] dearly held areas. Wave Hill, in Darwin and Owners was gone. in recognition of the landmark Circulation These new arrangements many other places. But we never forgot about High Court case. 3,000 print allow for us to share our sea The NLC started fighting fighting for our sea country. There is a lot more country – in a fair way and on for land and sea rights We started off with the information on the NLC our terms and in our law. nearly 50 years ago. Croker Island case and while website and the NLC We’ve been sharing It’s been a long, hard fight we didn’t win all we wanted, Facebook page. This isn’t COVERS our country with visitors and we’ve won a lot of our our native title rights in sea the last step in the ongoing Back cover: Barunga for around 400 years now. land back over the years. country were recognized. fight to strengthen our sea Festival, 11-13 June 2021 That’s a long time before In 1973, the NLC told the In 2002, the NLC started country rights. I look forward Captain Cook sailed into Federal government that we the Blue Mud Bay case that to updating you more in Botany Bay. Saltwater wanted sea rights out to 12 was finally decided by the the near future.
2 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au NLC EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
Governance training refresher for NLC Executive Council In February members of the NLC Executive Council attended three days of governance training provided by the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
DURING the training members learnt about the roles and responsibilities of being company directors, how to read and interpret financial statements and reports, and the importance of strategic planning and identification and monitoring of risks. It was a long three days following the Executive Council meeting, with a lot of discussion about how to improve and NLC Executive Council in Darwin, February 2021. Back R-L: Bill Danks, Matthew Ryan, Samuel Bush- strengthen the NLC. Blanasi, Djawa Yunupingu, Richard Dixon, Front L-R: Brian Pedwell, Chris Neade, Grace Daniels, Helen Lee
Meet NLC’s Full Council deadly Deputy Chair Mr Dixon RICHARD Dixon is a Garawa man from Robinson River and is one the senior Traditional Owners for the community. He is a member and former director of the Gulf Savannah NT Aboriginal Corporation, whose principal function is to provide Community Development Program services to the Gulf region. He is also a member and former Deputy Chairman of the Mungoorbada Aboriginal Corporation, which delivers a range of essential services to Robinson River residents, including through its community store. His vision is to help his people and the government NLC Deputy Chair Richard Dixon is a Garawa man from Robinson River to work together.
THE Ngukurr Arts Centre has launched In memory of Mr L Norman its latest exhibition of work—Bla Mela Kantri (Our Country)—from the small THE Chairman, CEO, members and staff of the Northern Land Council mourn the passing of former NLC Executive Council member Mr L Norman, but culturally and creatively active who had also represented the NLC as a representative for Borroloola community of Ngukurr on the Roper River since the 1990s. south-east of Katherine. Mr Norman was educated at Borroloola and St John’s College in Darwin. He was a revered Yanyula elder of the Mambaliya-Wawukarriya clan group who worked for many years with the Li-anthawirriyarra Sea The exhibition will run until 10 May 2021. Rangers and was instrumental in the establishment and operation of the Yanyuwa Indigenous Protected Area since 2011 and of which he was particularly proud. For more information on the ‘Bla Mela Mr Norman was a long-term member of the Aboriginals Benefit Kantri’ exhibition go to the Godinymayin Account, had served as Deputy Chairman of the Gulf Health Services and Yijard Rivers website at was a member of the Mawurli and Wirriwangkurna Aboriginal Corporation. In 1988 he played a key role in the films Journey East (Buwarrala https://gyracc.org.au/ Akarriya), followed by Aeroplane Dance (Ka-wayawayama) in 1994 and worked as a key advisor on many other projects that served to preserve and protect his beloved sea country. Mr Norman also played an important role in ensuring that knowledge of and love for country was passed onto emerging generations of Traditional Owners and custodians of land and sea country. Mr Norman will be sadly missed by all of us in the Northern Land Council family and we send our heartfelt condolences to Mr Norman’s family, kin and friends. He will be sadly missed by us all.
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 3 CARING FOR COUNTRY Meet our rangers: What do you love about your job?
“I love being out on country in the peace and quiet rather than being on the internet!” Natalie Blitner, Wardaman Rangers
“It’s good going out on country. I spent a lot of time out there with our elders. Plus I go to school and learn kids about bush tucker and they’ll learn their culture.” Daphne Huddleston, Wagiman Rangers
“It’s important to look after the country and teach our children.” Josie Davies, Waanyi Garawa
“It’s important to look after our country and protect our sacred “I love getting out on the river sites.” Karen Noble, and patrolling.” Cindy Archie, Garawa Rangers Timber Creek
In late March, the Caring for Country Women’s Leadership Forum took place, attendees included:Jana Daniels, Yugul Mangi; Eva Nungamadjbarr, Numbulwar; Joanne Pomery, Numbulwar; Eslyn Wauchope, Garngi; Cindy Archie, Timber Creek; Josie Davies, Waanyi Garawa; Sonia Shadforth, Garawa; Karen Noble, Garawa; Natalie Blitner, Wardaman; Daphne Huddleston, Wagiman; Teresa Burr Burr, Bulgul; Sheila White, Malak Malak; Charmaine Mininikirr, Mardbalk; Sharon Jimarin, Wudicupildiyerr, Sherylin Umbull, Wudicupildiyerr, Sophie Simon, Gajerrong; Desiree Simon, Gajerrong; Mary Blythe, “I love caring for country, learning different things every day and Training; Penny Mules, W&Y Coordinator teaching our next generation.” Jana Daniels, Yugul Mangi
4 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au HEALTH COVID-19 vaccines: your questions answered Do you want to know more about the COVID-19 vaccines? These answers have been compiled by Danila Dilba Health Service using resources from the Australian d e n g si e D a ki Government Department of Health. All rra L a information is correct as of 18 March 2021.
How do I know the vaccine is safe? wait 15 minutes before leaving just in case you have a reaction. There will All medicines used in Australia must be carefully tested, assessed and be trained medical staff at all vaccination centres to take care of you if this approved for use by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). The TGA happens. If you have a severe reaction after leaving the vaccination centre, checks a medicine's safety, quality and effectiveness. Both COVID-19 vaccines you should see a doctor or health care professional as soon as possible. available in Australia have gone through this rigorous testing process, so you If you have any concerns about symptoms that occur after you've been can trust that they are safe. In Australia, the vaccines have gone through the vaccinated, you can call the National Coronavirus Hotline which is staffed 24 same process as any other medicine, rather than the emergency approvals hours a day: 1800 020 080. we have seen in some other countries. Should I be worried about blood clots? The vaccine was developed very quickly. Are you sure it's safe? There have recently been several media stories about a correlation between blood clots and the COVID-19 vaccine. At the moment, there is no evidence to Pharmaceutical companies, universities, research institutes and suggest that blood clots are caused by the vaccine. Blood clots in vaccinated governments across the world invested a lot of time, money and expertise people occur at the same rate as they normally would in unvaccinated people. into quickly developing a vaccine for COVID-19 due to the devastating impact of the pandemic. The emergency situation warranted an emergency response, but all the usual safety protocols have been adhered to. The relatively fast development of the vaccine is an example of what is possible when resources are pooled and the development is prioritised on a global scale.
Is one vaccine safer or better than another?
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved both the Pfizer vaccine and the AstraZeneca vaccine for use in Australia because they are both safe and effective.
Why should I consider getting vaccinated?
Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against infectious diseases. Vaccines strengthen your immune system by training it to recognise and fight specific viruses. COVID-19 can cause severe illness, serious ongoing health conditions, and sometimes death. COVID-19 spreads quickly and widely and has resulted in millions of deaths across the world, including 900 people in Australia. Hospitalising lots of people due to COVID-19 places a strain on our health care system, which means that we don't have the resources to dedicate to other more every day (but equally important) health conditions. Being vaccinated against COVID-19 will help you protect yourself, your family, and your community. When enough people in the community are vaccinated, it slows down the spread of disease. Achieving herd immunity is a long-term goal that requires a large amount of population to be vaccinated.
Are there side effects? What should I do if I experience them? You may experience mild side effects following vaccination. Most side effects last no more than a couple of days and you will recover without any problems. Side effects are an indication that your immune system is responding to the vaccine and are a common part of the vaccination process. Common reactions to the vaccine include pain, redness or swelling where you received the injection, mild fever, and headache. Severe reactions (including allergic reactions) are extremely rare and usually occur within 15 minutes of receiving the vaccine. After you receive the vaccine, you should
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 5 OUT AND ABOUT Works by famous Arnhem Land artist to feature at Darwin art gallery Works by famous Arnhem Land artist to feature at Darwin art gallery WORKS by one of Australia’s leading contemporary artists – master bark painter John Mawurndjul AM – will be on show at Charles Darwin University’s Art Gallery until the end of May. More than 50 of Mr Mawurndjul’s most celebrated artworks will be showcased in the exhibition. Mr Mawurndjul is celebrated for his mastery of rarrk (cross-hatching) and his depiction of djang (a sacred site or totemic emblem), a tradition shared by generations of Kuninjku artists. Born in 1952, he lives and works in Milmilngkan in western Arnhem Land and Maningrida in central north Arnhem Land, where his bark paintings and sculptures tell the stories of Kuninjku culture and the significant locations surrounding his home. CDU Art Gallery Curator Dr Joanna Barrkman said the university’s gallery was fortunate to be the final venue on the exhibition’s national tour. “Mr Mawurndjul is arguably one of Australia’s most well-known living artists and we are incredibly privileged to have this exhibition visit CDU,” she said. “It will take visitors on an extraordinary journey across country and culture.” Master bark painter John Mawurndjul's work can be seen at Charles Darwin University until the end of May Out and about: Look who's reading LRN!
Bunug Galaminda on Warruwi Johnny Reid at Barramundi Creek
Stephanie Anderson, LoC Coordinator and Steering Committee member, in Darwin Brock Burgher relaxes with a cool drink and the newspaper
6 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au RANGER MINE Ranger Mine: towards realising Mirarr Cultural Closure Criteria By Chris Brady, NLC Ranger Mine Closure Project Officer
In January this year, Energy Resources of now being prepared for also visited trial plantings Traditional Owners in the Australia (ERA), majority owned by Rio revegetation, has been at the mine and talked with rehabilitation and monitoring lightly scarified rather ERA staff about a desire of the site over coming Tinto, ceased production of uranium oxide that deep ripped. to see habitat features decades, and the company at Ranger Mine. Recently members of the and cultural plantings to meeting the goals outlined in steering committee visited enhance the site. the cultural closure criteria. the site to inspect surface of We are hoping to see ERA FOUR decades ago the (GAC) have been lobbying Pit 1. The steering committee continue to engage with establishment of Ranger the Commonwealth to played an important role in change this artificial the story of land rights. deadline to ensure there Ranger operates in an is sufficient time to environmentally sensitive deliver the best possible area. It is on Aboriginal environmental outcomes, land, surrounded by such that all cultural closure Kakadu National Park and criteria are met. the Mirarr people are the The NLC and GAC have Traditional Owners. also been working to ensure The mine was views of Traditional Owners authorised under the are considered during the Commonwealth’s Atomic rehabilitation period. Energy Act. The authorization Traditional Owners included Environmental have recently nominated a Stewart Gangale inspecting plants with Peter Christophersen at the Ranger nursery Requirements, which set out steering committee of Mirarr environmental protection and other Bininj from the conditions with which region to discuss cultural ERA must comply. reconnection with the Under these Ranger Project Area. requirements the company This includes better must rehabilitate the area defining cultural to an environment similar to reconnection for the benefit the adjacent areas of Kakadu of regulators and ERA, National Park. considering how cultural The NLC has a role in knowledge can contribute assessing progressive to landform design and rehabilitation and species plantings, and how eventually in determining the cultural closure criteria if the rehabilitation will be monitored and objectives have been met. assessed over time. In recognition of the An example where importance of the views of Traditional Owners’ input has Pit 3 in process of being backfilled Mirarr Traditional Owners in influenced the design of the successful rehabilitation, final land form is to do with ERA funded consultation traversability. with Mirarr which led to the Traditional Owners want development of Cultural the rehabilitated area to Closure Criteria. The criteria be relatively easy to walk have been endorsed by the across. At most mine NLC and agreed to by ERA. rehabilitation areas the The criteria reflect ground has been deep ripped, Traditional Owners desire to allow water to penetrate to once again be able to and nutrients to collect in use the Ranger Project the furrows. However the Area for hunting, gathering, result is generally deep recreation and ritual. furrows and parallel lines Under existing of large rocks. Along with regulatory arrangements making these areas difficult the company has just to walk across the result is five years to complete an unnatural appearance. rehabilitation works. In recognition of the view The NLC and Gundjeihmi of Traditional Owners, the Aboriginal Corporation backfilled Ranger Pit 1, Members of the Cultural Reconnection Steering Committee visited Ranger in February
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 7 LEARNING ON COUNTRY ‘You mob are doing a great job’: Learning on Country program connects students to work on country
Around 80 school principals, teachers, ranger coordinators, LoC coordinators and Indigenous cultural advisors met in Darwin for the Learning on Country forum in March
MORE than a thousand people who can walk it teaches them skills that from each of the Learning gave program updates. young people from 15 strong in two worlds. they need to survive in our on Country sites, as One of highlights of the remote schools are taking “Our future is our kids culture and Balanda culture.” well as researchers and forum was the session ‘the part in the Learning on and I want to see them get More than 80 school education specialists. LoC pathway to employment, Country Program. the right education and principals, teachers, ranger The meeting kicked a participant’s perspective’ The program integrates go on to live healthy lives coordinators, rangers, off with a Welcome to presented by Jonah Ryan and two teaching methodologies and care for their families Learning on Country Country by Larrakia Nation’s Grestina Wilson. (culture and curriculum) – the Learning on Country coordinators, and Indigenous Jeanneen McLennan, Jonah Ryan is from and provides pathways Program helps create that cultural advisors came followed by an introduction Maningrida, where the to real education and pathway for them. together for a two-day from the Learning on Bawinanga Djelk Ranger employment outcomes. “The program is extremely Learning on Country forum in Country Program Chair, internship program supports NLC Chairman Samuel inspiring because it gives Darwin on 23 and 24 March. Lirrpiya Mununggurr. Learning on Country Bush-Blanasi said the our kids a better education The forum offered Over the two days, students to transition into program is producing – a both ways education. delegates opportunities for each of the 15 sites gave full time ranger work. culturally confident and Developed by Aboriginal information sharing and presentations and Learning educated young Aboriginal people for our young people, included presentations on Country coordinators
What is the LoC Program? The LoC program is a highly valued community-driven initiative that has been operating successfully for almost 10 years across remote Top End communities. The program is a formal partnership between 15 community schools and local Indigenous ranger groups and provides practically-oriented educational, training and employment pathways for young Indigenous people, through the integration of culture and curricula. The LoC Program is a network of 15 sites supported by the Program management team in the NLC.
8 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au LEARNING ON COUNTRY
Meet Jonah Ryan, Bawinanga Djelk Ranger
Jonah is from Maningrida, where the Bawinanga Djelk Ranger internship program supports Learning on Country students to transition into full time ranger work. “I’ve been a ranger for four and a half years now. It’s just great being a leader for young ones and I’m loving it. I always wanted to be a ranger, just like my old man. “That’s why when Learning on Country started I thought this is my opportunity to be a ranger and here I am. “Before this I didn’t talk, I didn’t say anything, I just kept myself and now here I am talking to all you people. I used to be scared or shaking but not now. “Ever since I got this green shirt on, I look at myself in the mirror and I can’t believe that I made it. I do a selfie and go wow, I’m a real ranger now, I can’t believe it myself. “I’ve been through a lot and I can tell the young ones you don’t have to be really smart or good at reading or writing, you just need to be really strong and hardworking so just keep on moving forward’.”
Cindy Jinmarabynana from Maningrida spoke about her former student Grestina Wilson at the Learning on Country forum in Darwin.
“This is Grestina. I used to teach her, her father was a Djelk ranger. The first day when we went out I saw she was very passionate and strong and listening to the elders. Now it’s making me be proud of what she’s done now.”
NLC chairman Samuel Bush-Blanasi speech to the Learning on Country forum:
“I’m the chairman of NLC, I’m from Beswick, born in Katherine. But my grandparents and my mum are from Blue Mud Bay region. “Learning on Country has been operating now for 10 years. There’s a little story behind this. This program was run by the Education Department and the NT government. I stepped in and brought it to the NLC in 2018. The reason behind it is, all you guys all know more about keeping young kids coming to school and teaching them all about culture and learning on country. “Learning on Country with young kids is the most important thing, as you all know Facebook and Instagram are not our way. “Looking at all you mob coming from all different regions, you mob are doing a fantastic job. “Our kids need to learn both ways – Balanda way and Yolngu way. They go to school in the morning, and afternoon they go to you mob. “There’s one kid here that came through this pathway, young Jonah. I was at Maningrida when he was at school and he was presented an award for coming through the Learning on Country program and he ended up becoming a ranger with Djelk and now he’s doing really well. “I want to take you to the Beswick (Wugularr) and Barunga Learning on Country Program. It's hosted by the Jawoyn Ranger group and started in 2019. “Not long after it started the Principal at Wugularr School said that attendance at the school had almost doubled as result of the program. “It just shows how wonderful this program is, when you’ve got elders like you mob who lead these kids to their future.”
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 9 FISHING REGISTRATION New registration process for anglers in Aboriginal-owned waters At the start of March, the NLC introduced a free online registration process for recreational anglers wanting to fish in the Top End’s intertidal zones.
THE Top End’s intertidal NT, the Seafood Council zones have been the subject and the Guided Fishing Tour of years of negotiation operators but at all times we since exclusive Aboriginal have to put the interests of ownership was recognised in Traditional Owners first. And the 2008 Blue Mud Bay High that’s what we do.” Court decision. Ms Scrymgour said “As I promised last year, the registration system NLC has been out consulting would increase anglers' widely with Traditional safety in intertidal zones Owners of sea country — a key concern of about what they want to Traditional Owners. do with their land and sea "We do so see accidents country,” NLC CEO Marion happening in some of those Scrymgour said. areas. Often we don't hear “Aboriginal land and sea about it but it does happen," Yag Bani CEO Steve Westley, Oyster Technicians Elroy Nayilibidj and Brando Westley and NLC country is privately owned. Ms Scrymgour said. Regional counsellor and Yag Bani Chair Bunug Galaminda Like any land owners, they "What we've done here have the right to say who is to meet the wishes of country for many, many can and who cannot come Traditional Owners to look years,” Mr Bush-Blanasi said. onto their country. There at and to make sure that … “We came close when the are some areas where, for particularly for our rangers, Land Rights Act was first cultural, environmental they know who is coming introduced by the Whitlam Key points: or commercial reasons, into those areas, so if government in 1975. Back Traditional Owners want to anyone gets into difficulty or then the Land Rights Act restrict access. something happens, we're at would have given us two “The NLC has statutory least able to respond.” miles of sea country out • Online registration via responsibilities to assist NLC Chairman Samuel from the shore. www.nlc.org.au is now Traditional Owners to Bush-Blanasi noted the long “But when the Land manage their country and we history of the battle for sea Rights Act was re-introduced required for anglers take those responsibilities country in the NT. to the Australian parliament very seriously. “That struggle didn’t by the Fraser government fishing in certain “The NLC has been just start with Blue Mud the next year those sea talking to and sharing Bay in the High Court, country rights were gone. areas of the Top End's information with all the we had the Croker Island We’ve never stopped fighting intertidal zones other stakeholders – the case before that and sea for our sea country and NT government, Amateur country Traditional Owners we never will.” Fisherman’s Association have been fighting for their In a statement, Aboriginal • The intertidal zones were Affairs Minister Selena Uibo said the developments were recognised as exclusively "good news" and the NLC would "continue to work Aboriginal owned in a with land owners around 2008 High Court decision long-term permanent access arrangements". "The NLC has acted • Nearly 750 fishers have strongly on behalf of land owners who were granted already registered via the ownership over much of the Territory's coastline in 2008 NLC website, and more by the High Court and we were expected prior to thank the NLC for ongoing work ensuring Territory the Easter break anglers have so much access to Aboriginal-owned waters," she said.
10 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au FISHING REGISTRATION Blue Mud Bay Registration FAQs What is Blue Mud Bay registration? From the start of March, the NLC introduced permit-free access to extensive areas of the intertidal zone – also known as Aboriginal sea country - on the NT mainland by a simple process of on-line registration that is quick, simple and free. It gives recreational fishers access to many areas of tidal Aboriginal land through to 31 December 2022. It is called the Blue Mud Bay registration process in recognition of the historic decision by the High Court of Australia in 2008 that recognises Aboriginal ownership of tidal Aboriginal land – sometimes called the 'intertidal zone' - in the NT. Where do I need Blue Mud Bay registration for? You will need Blue Mud Bay registration for the Blue Mud Bay Access Area that is marked in yellow on the Tidal Waters Access Map. You will not need registration from the NLC for access to areas subject to Long Term Agreements that are marked in green on the Tidal Waters Access Map. The areas marked in red on the Tidal Waters Access Map are Restricted Areas. These are the subject of continuing access consultations by the NLC or where for cultural, environmental or commercial reasons, Traditional Owners want to restrict access. What is the intertidal zone? The intertidal zone is the area between the high tide and low tide water marks. In relation to Aboriginal sea rights stemming from the Blue Mud Bay decision, the intertidal zone is the area between the mean high tide and the mean low water marks. If I have a Blue Mud Bay access permission do I also need a transit permit if I’m travelling through Aboriginal land? Yes, Blue Mud Bay registration only allows you to access Aboriginal tidal waters by boat. If you need to travel through Aboriginal land to access Aboriginal tidal waters, you will need a separate transit permit. We’re travelling in a convoy of boats, does each person in each boat need to register? Yes. Each person travelling on a boat requires registration, except children under the age of 18 whose parent(s) are travelling in the boats and have Blue Mud Bay registration. Where can I fish in the East Alligator River? You can fish in the East Alligator River up to Cahills Crossing at the boundary of the Kakadu National Park and the Arnhem Land Aboriginal Land Trust.
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 11 WOMEN'S RIGHTS International Women’s Day event at the NLC highlights achievements of women and the road ahead
NLC's Women's Co-op Council Chair Joy Cardona
THE yearly celebration of you’re working for a Full Cutting the cake! women and all they have Council, which sits above us accomplished saw more through the Executive and than 50 people gather through the Chairman.” outside the NLC’s Darwin Senator McCarthy office in March. told the crowd that every The event was hosted woman has the right to by NLC’s Women’s Co- be safe in every single op Council Chairperson, space she inhabits. Joy Cardona, and guest “One of the things we see speakers included NT that is not happening at the Senator Malarndirri Federal level is the respect McCarthy and Deputy for women in the workplace NT Treaty Commissioner and the ability to keep Ursula Raymond. safe. We need to keep safe, Ms Cardona said whether we’re at work or at International Women’s home,” she said. Day was an opportunity to “We know that here in the reflect on all the women NT too many of our women who had come before us and experience violence and Karen Cubillo and Kiara Petterson the path ahead. assaults of all sorts. “In this building we have “So when you see it at 158 women, that’s 52 per the highest levels, where cent of us,” said Ms Cardona. women are not being “We have 18 women respected it sends a terrible over ten years [of working message right across the at NLC], three over 15 country for all women and years, three for 20 years for all families. That’s not the and at least one for country we want to see in more than 30 years. Australia, where you cannot “We’re having women’s feel safe in the workplace. day here to thank all “On the weekend I the women - and men head back to Canberra - that work for the land for sittings and it will be council. This place is an important time to set special for many people the record straight about throughout the Territory. how the Parliament treats “I thank you all for women and should be being here. Enjoy this treating women right across building, enjoy working for the Parliament and right the NLC and remember across Australia.”
12 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au PRESS CTRL ANDWOMEN'S SHIFT TORIGHTS EDIT ‘Enough is enough’: March4Justice calls for change Hundreds of people in Darwin marched toward NT Parliament House as part of March4Justice events held across the country.
THE march called on the through with sexual assault Federal Government to pick complaints and people up its act in regards to its might say that’s because response to recent sexual of a lack of evidence, abuse allegations. but that doesn’t really Event organiser Sara correlate because we Rowe said the march also simultaneously have was about creating a the highest rate of sexual groundswell movement. assault in the country.” The rally was held NT Working Womens across the country with Shelter’s Claire an estimated 100,000 Pirrett said the march people participating at was “a conversation about 40 locations. not the solution”. “On a Territory level we’re “The solution is the NLC staff taking part in the March4Justice calling for better responses dismantling of systemic to domestic family and structural sexism and sexual violence in the gender inequality,” she said. Territory,” she told NT News. “We need those that “We’re calling for benefit from it - mostly police to receive better white men, to be advocates education – how to respond and support the changes of to these kinds of reports, laws, policies, procedures we know they’re terribly and societal norms that low rates in the Territory of gave them these advantages police actually following in the first place.”
Farewell to dinosaurs! Belyuen women march down Bennett St towards Parliament House
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 13 COMMUNITY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT Galiwin’ku school playground officially opened
Galiwin’ku Traditional Owners at the opening of the new playground at Shepherdson College
Galiwin’ku Traditional Owners, school Community Planning and leaders and student representatives Development team to plan and implement the celebrated the official opening of a new playground project. playground at Shepherdson College on 20 This project meets this group’s main focus, which November 2020. is supporting children and youth in their community. THE playground is a It is really “manymak Traditional Owner colourful jungle of rope for djamarrkuli” said one Geoffrey Gurawunuwuy challenges, swinging Traditional Owner. said he is happy bridges, monkey bars At the opening with the outcome. At the opening celebration there was bunggul to reveal a plaque and double slides. celebration there was “That’s number The funds for the bunggul to reveal a plaque, one, that’s what we playground were provided which acknowledges want,” he said. by the Traditional Owners the great contribution of The school playground and the Shepherdson Traditional Owners and the is just one of nine projects College School Council. school to their community. the Traditional Owner group Following COVID-19 Richard Ghanduwuy has funded to support their shut downs last year, acknowledge that young people to grow up the children came “This is a very, very strong and healthy in both back to school and the important memorial.” Balanda and Yolngu worlds. playground was ready for Traditional Owners them to play on. worked alongside NLC’s
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Australia’s oldest Aboriginal newspaper. Since 1973. 14 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au COMMUNITY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT New commitment to community development from Mangarrayi Aboriginal Land Trust Twelve groups are recognised as the Traditional Owners of the Mangarrayi ALT area.
MEMBERS from the groups live mainly in Mataranka, Katherine, Jilkminggan and Ngukurr. In October 2020 the Traditional Owners decided to set aside money each 8 Steps in the CP&D process year, for three years, Building stronger comunities and better lives 8. Looking back from their Section 19 lease income towards community development using the NLC’s Community 1. Getting started Planning and Development (CP&D) framework. The CP&D team is 7. The project happens excited about working with The project starts and the NLC Mangarrayi TOs this year to helps make sure it stays on track. learn about their aspirations for community development, 2. Working together and then supporting 5. Decide on a project them to put in place good governance and planning arrangements as the ideas and projects that benefit the group are developed. 4. Make a project plan 6. Enter a funding agreement As always, the focus from CP&D is to strengthen 3. What is best for Aboriginal capacity and community control and to generate positive social, cultural, environmental, and economic outcomes prioritised and valued by the group, using a “bottom-up” decision making process.
Members of the Mangarrayi Aboroginal Land Trust gathered for meetings in October 2020 and March this year.
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 15 CARING FOR COUNTRY The NLC celebrates rangers graduating from Batchelor Institute
IN the last 12 months, teams and beyond so they can many of our rangers advance Traditional Owner have completed certified aspirations for Country. training at the Batchelor Graduating Institute of Indigenous rangers included: Tertiary Education in • Andrew Liddy (Cert areas of Conservation and 1 Conservation and Land Management, and Land Management) Resource and Infrastructure • Aaron Green (Cert Work Preparation. 2 Conservation and Our Caring for Land Management) Country Branch arranged • Tim Burr Burr (Cert 2 a ceremony while in Conservation and Land Batchelor in early December Management and Cert 2 2020 to recognise their Resource and Infrastructure Rachael Thurlow, Aaron Green, Andrew Liddy, Timothy Burr Burr, Brendon Morgan-Armstrong, achievements and present Work Preparation) Rebecca Jennings, Donald Shadforth, Daphne Huddleston, Wayne Barbour those in attendance with a • Brendan Morgan-Armstrong certificate of completion. (Cert 2 Conservation Training is essential to the and land Management career development of our and Cert 2 Resource rangers. It equips them with and Infrastructure the skills and competencies Work Preparation) required to step into a • Daphne Huddleston spectrum of positions in the (Cert 2 Conservation and land and sea management Land Management) sector. The end goal of this is • Donald Shadforth (Cert to have Aboriginal rangers in 2 Conservation and leadership positions in ranger Land Management) Daphne Huddleston Timothy Burr Burr The NLC’s women ranger employment program wins a Fitzy - NT human rights award
participation and take action Employment Program have longer-term core funding to overcome them. resulted in Aboriginal women to ensure the stability “We congratulate all our rangers being promoted of the ranger program,” women land and sea rangers to leadership positions said Ms Cardona. and managers who have within seven ranger groups, Malak Malak Assistant been a part of this cultural including as senior rangers Ranger Coordinator change and who continue and assistant coordinators. Sheila White said women to work towards achieving Joy Cardona, Chairwoman rangers are leaders in gender equity.” of the NLC’s Women’s their communities and are The Caring for Country Committee, which met this inspiring young women to Kylie Burn, Daphne Huddleston, Penny Mules, Julie Roy, Fiona Branch adopted the week at Katherine, described take up the role of caring for Peek, Eslyn Wauchope, Sheila White, Jana Daniels Women’s Employment the women rangers as country and culture. Strategy in 2018 and “trailblazers.” “Working as a ranger THE NLC congratulates “This is exactly the committed to increasing and “The courage and has not only benefitted me the Caring for Country type of change we need to supporting the participation perseverance of all these personally, I see how the Branch’s Women’s celebrate,” said NLC CEO of Aboriginal women in their women made it easier for young people and other Employment Program, which Marion Scrymgour. ranger workforce. others to follow in their women look up to us, and was presented with The “Our Caring for Country Over the last three years, footsteps and take on it makes us feel really Fitzgerald Social Change Branch has worked hard the implementation of the increased responsibilities proud,” Ms White said. Award at the 2020 NT to create a work culture strategy has resulted in the as rangers and in “Ranger groups are now a Human Rights Awards at the that attracts, retains and employment of women in supervisory roles.” safe space for young women NT Supreme Court. inspires Aboriginal women ranger groups increasing “And while it’s good news to enter, as they are able The award recognises an to become rangers. Through from 20 per cent to 47 per that more Aboriginal women to work with other women, organisation or person who consultation with women cent of the ranger workforce are stepping into ranger and are supported by staff has contributed significantly rangers and community across NLC’s ranger groups. positions, Indigenous ranger who understand their needs. to the promotion of social elders, the Caring for Leadership development programs continue to face Many women’s lives have change for human rights and Country Branch were able to opportunities provided major funding challenges. been changed by these equal opportunity. identify barriers to women’s through the Women’s We need a commitment to opportunities.”
16 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au CARING FOR COUNTRY
New ranger coordinator presents boomerang to Jack Green WHEN NLC’s new Waanyi and to show a sign of Garawa and Garawa Ranger respect. It’s a custom thing Co-ordinator, Josh Cameron, to do when visiting other arrived in Borroloola for work people’s country and show he presented a boomerang appreciation and respect as a gift to Garawa for the country.” elder Jack Green. Josh, whose country is “The boomerang was a Kalkadoon and Waanyi, was gift that was made from born in Darwin and then where I live in Swan Hill, moved to Victoria. He’s happy Victoria with the help of to be back in the Territory. another lad,” Josh said. “I’m up here to learn “I brought it up to say more about my culture and thank you for accepting heritage and dreamtime me into the community stories from my people.” NLC's Josh Cameron and Garawa elder Jack Green Fire information goes mobile to Australia’s land managers LAND managers across places space technology much of Australia can now literally in the hands of land access near real-time managers on country. bushfire information on “This is a major their mobile phones with the development that gives launch of a free mobile app. thousands of land managers The app is called in Northern Australia access NAFI - Northern Australia to two to three-hourly and Rangelands Fire updates on active fires, Information system. weekly updates of high-risk NAFI, previously only area across 80 per cent of available on a web site, Australia and burnt area is a fire information web maps from current and portal supported through previous years – all on their Charles Darwin University’s phones,” Mr Fisher said. Darwin Centre for Bushfire Research. CDU Research Development Officer Rohan Fisher says the app Darwin a tropical paradise for snakes, data shows
DATA analysed by a Charles 2017, found 5210 human “It’s the classic pattern Darwin University researcher interactions with the reptiles of biodiversity, there’s an has confirmed Darwin is a over a seven-year period. increase in diversity towards tropical paradise for snakes, CDU Research Institute - the tropics; you tend to harbouring more different Environment and Livelihoods find a lot more species up species than any other researcher Dr Brenton here than down south,” Dr capital city in the country. von Takach said despite von Takach said. The analysis, based on the volume of callouts, “Darwin being a very calls from members of the almost 90 per cent of northerly city has a lot more public to professional snake interactions were with non- snakes than most other catchers between 2011 and venomous snakes. cities across the country.” Snakes love Darwin and Darwin loves snakes!
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 17 CARING FOR COUNTRY
New Gamba plan for Kakadu and West Arnhem Land
A plan to protect parts of to undertake Gamba grass the Top End from Gamba prevention actions. These grass has been produced by actions include patrolling Territory Natural Resource and monitoring roadsides Management, landholders in and gravel pits, reporting the region and ranger groups, and controlling new including the NLC’s Wagiman infestations, and mapping Guwardagun Rangers. and data collection. ‘The Gamba Grass Susanne Casanova, Regional Management Coordinator of the West Plan for Western Arnhem Arnhem Land & Kakadu Land and Kakadu’ takes a Regional Project, said collaborative approach to there are many people who stopping the spread of this care deeply about keeping highly invasive weed. the West Arnhem region Gamba grass grows Gamba grass free. taller and more densely than “We have put this plan native grasses and matures together to illustrate some later in the dry season. It of the best ways that any creates high fuel loads that land manager, local or visitor can cause uncontrollable to the area, can prevent Adjumarllarl Rangers and Njanjma Rangers used helicopters to help them survey Gamba grass hot wildfires that destroy outbreak and spread of vegetation, large trees, Gamba grass in the region.” animal habitat and decrease Darwin’s rural areas, parts local biodiversity. of Litchfield National Park The plan was developed and even some Darwin sites as part of TNRM’s West are battling serious Gamba Arnhem and Kakadu grass infestations. Regional Project, which Fortunately, in west is supported through Arnhem Land and Kakadu funding from the Australian National Park, there is Government’s National still time to stop gamba Landcare Program. in its tracks before it TNRM also supports impacts on this unique part ranger groups in the region of the Territory.
Gamba Fast Facts
• A Gamba grass plant can produce up to 250,000 seeds per season
• Seeds can be spread by wind, vehicles, machinery, animals and people
• Gamba grass can grow up to 4m tall
• Gamba grass currently affects up to 15,000sq km of the NT, but has the potential to affect 380,000sq km of the NT
Adjumarllarl Ranger Jethro Demed takes part in a roadside Gamba patrol
18 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au RESPECT STARTS WITH US STOP the excuses. START talking about respect. LEARN more at www.respect.gov.au
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 19 CARING FOR COUNTRY Top End fire managers cautiously optimistic this fire season shaping up to be one of the better years on record
THE recent 2019-20 North that they also used the Australia fire season was recent fire season to further deemed by researchers from their training programs, Charles Darwin University to develop new partnerships, be one of the better seasons and better equip for the on record, however, a number upcoming fire season. of new challenges have been Thamarrurr Rangers identified by fire managers worked closely with the working across the Top End. Mimal Rangers in the In a presentation to the previous fire season, and 2021 North Australia Savanna helped to train up rangers to Fire Forum, Fire Managers use a variety of equipment in the NT have highlighted that can help to assist in some of the challenges of managing fires. Partnership a changing climate while like the one between providing an overview Thamarrurr and Mimal have of the 2019-20 North also been identified as a Australia fire season. vital resource in managing In a panel session held on future fire seasons. 9 February, representatives In a broader overview from Bushfires NT, of the 2019-20 Northern Warddeken Rangers, Australia Fire season, Dr Thamarrurr Rangers. Supplied: Thamarrurr Development Corp Thamarrurr and Kakadu Rohan Fisher, from the National Park, told of how Darwin Centre for Bushfire a declining wet season Research, summarised the has led to longer burning 2019-20 North Australia fire seasons, and the need to season as one of the better increase the size and extent years on record. of fire breaks to combat Dr Fisher told attendees changing conditions. at the 2021 North Australia Mamardawerre Ranger Savanna Fire Forum that Coordinator, Torsten despite the annual changes Unnasch, from Warddeken in weather and a growing Rangers said while a need to be adaptable in declining wet season has a changing climate, the meant less fuel for fires, it 2021 North Australia fire has resulted in earlier curing, season is shaping up to be a and therefore provides for a good year as well. longer fire season. The Darwin Centre for Despite these new Bushfire Research has also challenges, Warddeken introduced new tools for has used the previous fire the North Australian Fire season as an opportunity to Information (NAFI) service, build their capacity to better including a Fire Information manage future fire seasons app, which helps to provide and have been training and accurate and timely fire setting up Daluk (womens) information to users across firefighter teams. Northern Australia and Similarly, Jaemie Page the Central Desert, and and Uriah Crocombe from which will greatly assist the Thamarrurr Rangers, with managing fires in the told Fire Forum attendees upcoming fire season.
Nova Peris OAM and ABC News' Jane Bardon announce the winners of the Savanna Fire Forum video competition
20 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au CARING FOR COUNTRY
Warddeken Daluk Rangers aerial burning. Supplied: Warddeken Land Management Ltd
WANT TO TRACK NEW HOT SPOTS OR ACCESS FIRE SCAR INFORMATION? Then download the new NAFI App to your phone. For further information visit firenorth.org.au. The 2021 North Australia Savanna Fire Forum was hosted by the Indigenous Carbon Industry Network, thanks to the generous support of The Nature Conservancy and the in-kind support of the Savanna Fire Forum working group.
Trent Lee opens the forum with a Welcome to Larrakia Country Videos, reports and recordings of the forum are now available at the ICIN website icin.org.au and savannafireforum.net. Any Indigenous group supporting a carbon project is encouraged to join the network by contacting Anna Boustead at icin@warddeken. org.au or 0417 989 577. NLC CEO Marion Scrymgour delivered the keynote speech at the North Australia Savanna Fire Forum in February
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 21 TOURISM $40 million fund to help grow the Indigenous tourism sector
DETAILS of the $40 million products, and purchase Indigenous Tourism Fund systems and equipment. were announced on 19 Grants are capped at $50,000 February by Minister for for a privately owned Indigenous Australians, the business and $100,000 for Hon Ken Wyatt AM, MP. community organisations. The Indigenous Tourism Applications close Fund was developed in on 6 April 2021. consultation with the The Indigenous Tourism Indigenous tourism sector Fund will also be used to and includes business invest in activities and support and grants initiatives to boost the for Indigenous owned Indigenous Tourism sector tourism businesses. as a whole. Up to $17 million “The tourism sector will be co-invested with was one of the first to be the states and territories impacted by COVID-19 and for Strategic Indigenous will be one of the last to Tourism Projects that recover,” Minister Wyatt said. generate supply chain “This fund delivers on opportunities for Indigenous Showing tourists spear throwing in Kakadu. Credit: Tourism NT/James Fisher our election commitment, owned tourism businesses. and has been designed This investment will be in in consultation with the partnership with state and Indigenous tourism sector territory governments. who have told us clearly A National Indigenous I became an interpreter what they need to recover Tourism Advisory Group and grow their businesses.” will advise the Government because of the $10 million from this on future priorities for fund will go towards the sector and provide an language barrier a National Indigenous Indigenous voice in the between Indigenous Tourism Mentoring Program implementation of the to offer businesses Indigenous Tourism Fund. and non-Indigenous individualised support. The advisory group is Up to $12 million will be chaired by Professor Deen people. available under the Tourism Sanders OAM with Deputy Grants for Indigenous Chair, Ms Helen Martin. Business Program to help For more information businesses and community visit the NIAA website organisations develop new at niaa.gov.au.
Aboriginal Interpreter Service Interpreঞng · Recordings · Training Do you speak an Aboriginal language and English? The Aboriginal Interpreter Service offers exible hours, travel, training, career opportuni�es and the chance to help people and keep language alive.
If you speak an Aboriginal language and English, and want to nd out more about becoming an interpreter, call 1800 334 944 or visit www.ais.nt.gov.au.
Department of LOCAL GOVERNMENT, HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Tourists admire Darwin street art. Credit: Tourism NT/Ashley Dobson
22 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au SNR AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR Congratulations to 2021 Senior Australian of the Year, Dr Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr Baumann AM
THE renowned artist, activist, mainstream society – writer and public speaker driving reconciliation at a from Nauiyu (Daly River) was grassroots level. among an all-women line- Through her professional up of recipients. and creative life, Miriam- In 1975, Miriam-Rose Rose has remained became the Northern dedicated to maintaining Territory’s first fully qualified the cultural independence Aboriginal teacher. As of her people and being an art consultant for the a spokesperson for the Department of Education, Aboriginal worldview. she visited schools through In recognition of her the Top End, advocating leadership, she was for the inclusion of awarded a Member of the visual art as part of every Order of Australia medal child’s education. and an Honorary PhD in Miriam-Rose later Education from Charles became the principal of Darwin University. the Catholic school in her During her acceptance home community before speech, said she was being appointed to the ‘very excited about what Federal Government’s has happened tonight’ advisory body, the National knows she now has ‘a lot Indigenous Council. more work to do’. In 2013, she established the Miriam Rose Foundation, to bridge the divide between Aboriginal culture and Shoes galore bound for Daly River
CHARLES Darwin University three different carriers. Education lecturer Dr “Eventually we tracked Gavin Morris couldn’t the donor down – it was the believe his eyes when he Melbourne Sports Institute,” opened his door to 100 Dr Morris said. kilograms of brand-new “It was such a surprise shoes and clothing. and we’re really grateful Dr Morris and Northern to be able to send shoes, Institute Partnerships socks and shirts out to Coordinator Katrina Britnell the community.” had put out a call for Melbourne Sports donations of shoes to help Institute Director Neville the Daly River community Braver said an employee in the Northern Territory’s had heard about the call western Top End. for shoes and organised The Top End has had the donation from an unusually good wet sports suppliers. season, but the inundation “We are happy to help – has left the small riverside to enable students to enjoy community in flood. their sport and socialise,” Charles Darwin University's Dr Gavin Morris with Daly River community members Carmen Mullein, CDU colleagues and Mr Braver said. Senior Australian of the Year Dr Miriam Rose Ungunmerr-Bauman and Justine Wutiumaya as they Darwin people rallied and The institute focuses on take delivery of donated shoes donated 200 pairs of shoes youth sport development in to collect some of the clubs in Darwin, and they them back to me after in just a few weeks but with values of fair play, donations while in Darwin. need football boots too,” Dr they’ve worn them and then finding the mystery donor of sportsmanship, team She was amazed and Ungunmerr-Baumann said. when they go to the city for two pallets of sports shoes unity and morale. delighted with the generosity “I take kids out on cultural excursions, they’ll have good and clothes took some Senior Australian of of Darwin people and the education in and around Daly shoes to wear.” detective work. the Year Dr Miriam Rose Melbourne Sports Institute. River – so the school will It turns out the shipment Ungunmerr-Baumann lives “Some of our young happily take shoes for them. had come to the NT through at Daly River and called ones play for the football “I can get them to bring
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 23 NEWS Kenisha Gurala Gumbula to become first Yolngu Lawyer
KENISHA Gurala Gumbula and practice of law. area yet to be decided. In is a Yolngu woman from Upon graduation from of the meantime, Kenisha Galiwin’ku on Elcho Island. her law degree in April 2021, continues her work with the In 2020, she completed Kenisha will become the first North Australian Aboriginal her Associate Degree in Law qualified Yolngu lawyer. Justice Agency (NAAJA) at Charles Darwin University “It wasn’t always easy, as a Community Legal (CDU). Kenisha achieved and there were times when Educator (CLE). this while still providing for I had to take time out to Kenisha’s position at her two young children and be with family and have a NAAJA incudes travelling into working at the same time. break,” Kenisha said. remote communities, mainly After completing high “But in the end it has her community, and helping school, Kenisha took some been worth it. I am proud to Yolngu people understand the time out before having her two be a role model for others Australian laws on different sons. She soon realised that in my community who have legal topics. Kenisha also she needed a challenge. aspirations of their own. I helps out on court days. With encouragement tell them that if I can do it, Kenisha acknowledges from her mum, Kenisha then they can too.” the support she received from commenced an enabling Kenisha is looking forward her immediate family which course at CDU, Preparation for to graduation. She is also includes her mother, her Tertiary Success (PTS) in 2015. thinking about what her next grandparents and her children. Kenisha then participated challenge might be. She also acknowledges in the Bilata Legal Pathways “First, I want to get my the Traditional Owners of Program, a partnership driver’s license and then have Galiwinku who provided opportunities relevant Support Services who have program to increase the a break,” she said. both financial and personal to her studies. always helped me with any access and participation of In 2021, she will look to support, and NAAJA who have “Finally, I’m grateful to hardships throughout my Aboriginal and Torres Strait undertake further studies supported her in her studies Charles Darwin University as studying at CDU,” Kenisha said. Islander people in the study in law to specialise in an and provide employment well as the CDU Indigenous NLC versus Clontarf students to a basketball game. Guess who won?
During the February NLC Regional Branch Workshop, NLC staff challenged the Jabiru Clontarf students to a game of basketball… and guess who won?
During the February NLC Regional Branch Workshop staff challenged the Jabiru Clontarf students to a game of basketball. The NLC's Saffron Lami Lami and Jesse Hunter presented the NLC goodie bags to the winners!
24 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au NAIDOC 2021 After COVID set-back, NAIDOC 2021 to return even bigger
enormous loss for both our of consultation and will remain a continuing Country is inherent to nation and the world. discussions among our source of dispute. But to truly heal Country nations on a range of To Heal Country, we our identity. we have more to do. issues and grievances. must properly work Our lands will Healing Country means towards redressing It sustains our lives in every aspect - continue to burn from finally resolving many of historical injustice. spiritually, physically, emotionally, socially, bushfires, droughts will the outstanding injustices While we can’t change continue to destroy our which impact on the history, through telling and culturally. livelihoods, without using lives of our people. the truth about our traditional practices It must be a fair and nation’s past we certainly IT is more than a place. respected equally to and that have protected this equitable resolution. can change the way When we talk about the cultures and values of country for centuries. Fundamental history is viewed. Country it is spoken all Australians. For generations, our grievances will not vanish. After 250 years, our of like a person. The right to protect Elders and communities In the European settlement children and our future Country is family, Country and culture have advocated, marched of Australia, there were generations deserve better. kin, law, lore, ceremony, is fundamental. and fought for substantive no treaties, no formal For generations we traditions, and language. have repeatedly called For Aboriginal and Torres for just recognition of our Strait Islander peoples it right to participate on an has been this way since equal basis in economic the dawn of time. and social terms. Through our languages Yet such participation and songs, we speak cannot be successful to Country; through unless, first, there is our ceremonies and formal recognition that traditions we sing to - and Indigenous people have celebrate Country – and been dispossessed Country speak to us. and, second, definite, Increasingly, we specific steps are taken worry about Country. to redress the grave For generations social and economic Aboriginal and Torres disadvantage that followed Strait Islander people have that dispossession. been calling for stronger Healing Country is measures to recognise, more than changing protect, and maintain all a word in our national aspects of our culture and anthem – it is about the heritage for all Australians. historical, political, and We have continued to administrative landscapes seek greater protections adapting to successfully for our lands, our waters, empower and celebrate our sacred sites and our Aboriginal and Torres Strait cultural heritage from Islander communities, exploitation, desecration, nations, and heritage. and destruction. We are all looking We are still waiting for for significant and those robust protections. lasting change. Healing Country We cannot afford to means hearing those let pass the very real pleas to provide greater opportunity that now management, involvement, presents itself for reform and empowerment based on a fundamental by Indigenous change in the relationship peoples over country. Australia has with Healing Country means Aboriginal and Torres Strait embracing First Nation’s Islander peoples. cultural knowledge and understanding of Country Destruction and institutional, structural settlements, no compacts. Heal Country, as part of Australia's desecration of our sacred and collaborative reform. Aboriginal and Torres heal our national heritage. That lands or ancient sites The aspirations of Strait Islander people the culture and values of - some of the oldest Aboriginal and Torres Strait therefore did not cede nation. Aboriginal peoples and human occupation sites Islander peoples are the sovereignty to our land. It Torres Strait Islanders are on the planet – is an culmination of generations was taken from us. That
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 25 ART FROM THE LAND ‘Bla Mela Kantri’ – an opening night full of stars
for Arnhem (and Attorney- General) Selena Uibo gave Bla Mela Kantri short and enthusiastic Mela wek im luk la olwan stail en nyuwan stail. Mela speeches to get the luk la kantri en koltja bla mela wek, mikstimapbat formalities out of the way so olwan en nyuwan. that the crowd could get on Longtaim, loda difrendifren traib bin gaman la ol mishin, with the serious business of bla bi seif burrum ola munanga hu bin kilimbat blakbala. Til checking out the fantastic didei, mela stil gadim bigmob traib jidanbat la Ropa. Mela artwork and prising open Ngalakgan, Alawa, Mangarrayi, Ngandi, Marra, Warndarrang, their wallets and purses. Nunggubuyu, Ritharrngu-Wägilak en Rembarrnga pipul, en There were plenty of red mela gulu mijel Yugul Manggi mijimit. David Murrungun, Walter Rogers, Andy Peters and dots on the paintings by the Yu gin luk dis histri la ola atwek la Ngukurr Arts. Ebirribodi Andrew Wunungmurra end of the night! gadim difrendifren stail. Ebirribodi peintim difrendifren ting The exhibition will run na. Bat wan ting im seim la ebirribodi stail, im ol brabili THE Ngukurr Arts Centre (almost) matched by the very until 10 May 2021. braitwan en strongbalawan. launched its latest exhibition appreciative packed house. For more information Mela olpipul laik Ginger Riley, Gertie Huddlestone, Sambo of work—Bla Mela Kantri Chairman of the Ngukurr on the ‘Bla Mela Kantri’ Barra Barra en Maureen Thomson bin ol feimis bla yusim loda (Our Country)—from the Arts Centre, Walter Rogers, exhibition go to the braitwan kala en burdiwan stail bla shoum alabat kantri. Mela small but culturally and led a fantastic traditional Godinymayin Yijard stil bulurrum alabat didei la Ngukurr Arts. creatively active community introduction to the launch Rivers website at https:// of Ngukurr on the Roper of this latest show, joined gyracc.org.au/. Dijan eksibishin im Bla Mela Kantri. River south-east of by songmen Andy Peters For more information Bla mela kantri brabili impotin la mela. Mela kantri im mela Katherine on 26 March. and Roy Nardilma on on what’s what and who’s laif. Mela peinting ma shoum mela ekspiriens la kantri na. It was a warm Friday night bilma (clapsticks), Andy who at the Ngukurr Arts Disma peinting im bla shoum ebirribodi, munanga en blakbala, at a packed Godinymayin Wunungmurra on didgeridoo Centre go to https:// wi kantri. Bat im rili bla lenim mela biginini mob bla koltja du. Yijard Rivers Arts and and David Murungun. ngukurrarts.com/ or follow Wen mela peintim kantri mela gibit mesij la mela biginini, im Culture Centre where the NT Minister for the Arts them on Instagram. dali alabat dat kantri im impotinwan. vibrant art on the walls was Chansey Paech and Member Main Abija – new children’s book from renowned Ngukurr artist and author Karen Rogers
‘Dijan buk gada ola memri ai bin abum gada memories I had of my main abija from wen ai bin lilgel til imin libu grandfather from when I was small until he left us. He wi. Imin titjim mi loda tings bla koltja en bla taught me many things about kantri. Mi hepi ba pasim det stori la main culture and country. 'My grandfather touched femili en bla pudum la dis buk.’ my heart. I hope everybody can have a chance to love KAREN Rogers’ first picture in the Northern Territory. one grandparent that way.' book, Main Abija (My Grandad) She lives with her family I’m happy to pass this story is a beautiful tribute to a and has five children, eight on to my family and to put much-loved grandfather grandkids and one great- it in this book.’ and a celebration of the grandson. Karen studies 'Gone Fishing' by Karen Rogers artist’s culture, country and Visual Arts at the Batchelor the circle of life. It is told in Institute and is inspired by her Kriol and English. grandmother and sisters, who With luscious artwork were all artists. and a lyrical text in Kriol and Karen works with English, celebrated Ngukurr textiles, glass and canvas artist Karen Rogers evokes and is currently working the world of her childhood on animation and loves in a remote part of the learning new skills and Northern Territory. Her story different art forms. In 2018, is a beautiful celebration of a she was artist in residence at special relationship, showing Glassworks, Canberra, and in how culture is passed on from 2020 she received a Creative generation to generation. Fellowship from Arts NT. Main Karen Rogers comes Abija (My Grandad) is her from Ngukurr Community first picture book. in South East Arnhem Land ‘This book has the Karen Rogers (left) who wrote 'Main Abija My Grandad' with her mum and daughter
26 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au CARING FOR COUNTRY Have you seen a Brush-tailed Rabbit-rat?
THE brush-tailed rabbit-rat adult person’s hand. They may have a funny name but have big ears and eyes and scientists and Aboriginal their fur is brown on their rangers across the Top back and creamy-coloured End are keen to find the on their belly. remaining populations of They like to live in tall this once-common and woollybutt and stringybark widespread small mammal. forests but can also be Research suggests that found in coastal areas with the rabbit-rat arrived in she-oaks, pandanus and Australia around five million grasslands. They prefer areas years ago and was common that haven’t been heavily across the monsoonal areas burnt and don’t like living in of northern Australia up areas with lots of speargrass. until recently. The main threats to It has now disappeared the rabbit-rat are feral from most areas and is only cats, hot late season known to persist in several fires and overgrazing by small relict populations off livestock and ferals. the north coast of Arnhem The rabbit-rat is listed Land, on Groote Eylandt, as a 'vulnerable' species for the Tiwi Islands and Coburg Australia, and 'endangered' in Peninsula, and high-rainfall the Northern Territory. areas of the Kimberley. If you see – or think Brush-tailed rabbit-rats you’ve seen – the brush- have a long tail with a bushy tailed rabbit-rat in your area tip that can be either black please report any sightings or white (on the Tiwi Islands) and locations to your and are about the size of an local ranger group. If you've seen a rabbit-rat recently please tell your local ranger group
Rangers on Inglis Island hold a cage with a rabbit-rat
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 27 Until 27 June magnt.net.au
Baluka Maymuru, Goŋ Wapitja, 2018, natural pigments on wood, digital file. Purchased 2018, Telstra Collection, MAGNT Collection.
28 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au ART FROM THE LAND Drawings of Aboriginal stockman Charlie Flannigan on display
A Little Bit of Justice time Charlie Flannigan’s mother was an Aboriginal - Drawings by Charlie drawings have been woman from the area, Flannigan highlights the shown together. possibly a Maiawali or story of an Aboriginal Presenting themes Karuwali woman, and his prisoner – the first person to of racial conflict and the father was an Irishman. be executed in the Northern injustice of early Northern He is also believed Territory – at Darwin’s Fannie Territory history, they provide to have spent time with Bay Gaol in 1893. a rare glimpse into the life of travelling families working The exhibition an Aboriginal stockman. on cattle stations. As a features 22 of his Charlie Flannigan was young man he worked as drawings depicting various born around 1865 on a cattle a stockman droving and 'Horseman leaping from a cliff', 1892 by Charlie Flannigan scenes from his life, all station called Marion Downs mustering on stations in the carried out whilst in solitary in the Diamantina region Victoria River District. When and where: Until 27 June, 2021 at Northern Territory confinement. It is the first in central Queensland. His Library (Parliament House). Free. Health and safety the priority at Garma 2021 THE 22nd annual Garma agencies as we develop a Festival will be a COVID-safe comprehensive COVID- safe event with strict compliance plan, and we look forward to measures in place to protect sharing more details of that the health and safety of in the weeks ahead.” those on site, the Yothu Yindi This year’s Garma will Foundation (YYF) said today. take place from 30 July Announcing the dates to 2 August at Gulkula in of Garma 2021, YYF CEO northeast Arnhem Land. and Festival Director Ticket registrations opened Denise Bowden said there on 10 February through the would also be a cap on Garma and YYF websites. General Admission and “Unfortunately, we have Corporate ticket sales, to no choice but to limit the help limit the number of number of tickets available people travelling to Arnhem for General Admission and Land from interstate, and Corporate guests, as there accommodate reduced will be reduced capacity on capacity at Gulkula. site to accommodate COVID “The health and safety compliance measures,” of our people and our Mrs Bowden said. communities is the number “Strict caps will be in one priority as we plan place on all ticket types for this year’s event,” except community passes, Mrs Bowden said. so that organisers can “YYF is preparing for every ensure the health and safety possible contingency, and we of all attendees. proceed with an abundance “People who bought of caution while the tickets last year and pandemic threat remains. who opted to roll their “We’re consulting with registration over for Garma the relevant authorities and 2021 will have their tickets honoured this year.” FOLLOW US Mrs Bowden said YYF was also exploring ways of @northernlandcouncil delivering parts of the event online for those who can’t @NLC_74 attend in person. “Nothing can quite match @northernlandcouncil the magic of being on site at Gulkula, but providing a digital platform gives us Watch NLC TV on the opportunity to bring YouTube by searching even more people into the Northern Land Council Garma conversation.” Pack your bags for Garma 2021, which kicks of 30 July at Gulkula. Credit: Peter Eve/YYF
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 29 NLC STAFF OUT AND ABOUT
NLC's Regional Development crew at Jabiru, February 2021 NLC's Executive Services staff at a workshop, March 2021
Gone fishing! Nourlangie Bridge, February 2021 Rangers undertake compliance training at Batchelor, March 2021
Emma Jackson, Xavier Espiau, Ashley Perez and Jamie Damaso at Batchelor
Yugul Mangi Rangers Cherryanne Daniels, Mardbalk Rangers Nicholas Hunter and Lewis Gittoes, NLC Regional Coordinator at Borroloola Roger Thompson and Dana Gumbula Charmaine Mininkirrkirr
30 Land Rights News • Northern Edition April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au PRESS CTRL AND SHIFTMEMORIAL TO EDIT
again in 2016. It is in the final of rock art sites as part of A tribute to Mr Lamilami stages of assessment and a holistic program within Mr Lamilami was hoping living cultural landscapes for an announcement of its was then developed and in by Professor Paul Tacon success later this year. 2015 made available as a free Another major downloadable publication. contribution by Mr Lamilami, Once again, Lamilami was in terms of teaching the leading the way in the world about rock art, is the protection of rock art, not inclusion of rock art in the only for his country, but for then Google Art Project, Australia and the world. launched in early 2012. In 2016, a new Australian He worked closely with Research Council project myself to include over 70 called History Places began, photographs of Djulirri. By with a focus on Namunidjbuk persuading Google to add rock art over 5,000 years a rock art gallery to the of age, with related over 150 built art galleries archaeological excavation. and museums profiling This project involved many of their works a huge global Mr Lamilami’s children and audience was reached in a grandchildren in the field totally innovative way. research and culminated in a Djulirri rock paintings At the Canberra launch major paper Mr Lamilami co- THE late Mr Lamilami had but more often to visitors to He was interested in Mr Lamilami told ABC News: authored, published in 2020. a rich and remarkable his traditional clan estate, how old some of the ships “Having those rock arts, It focuses on a previously life, engaging in many Namunidjbuk, in northwest depicted at Djulirri were, you know, being displayed undescribed rock art style activities and career paths to Arnhem Land and mentored particularly two Macassan in a sort of a modern found in northwest Arnhem benefit his community. a new generation of rock wooden sailing vessels technology I think it’s a good Land called Maliwawa He also had a passion for art researchers. known as perahus. His educational tool”. Figures, a name given to the his traditional lands, cultural Mr Lamilami was ancestors had interacted Photographs of rock style by Mr Lamilami. This heritage and history. But particularly passionate with Macassan visitors in art from Djulirri and other too made world headlines although he wanted them about rock art, especially search of trepang and other Namunidjbuk sites later and another feature in the protected from any sort of the hundreds of sites resources for hundreds featured in an exhibition magazine Archaeology. natural or human-made and many thousands of of years and there were at the Sarawak Museum, Mr Lamilami was keen to threat he also was keen images scattered across many family stories about Kuching in 2013 and Mr share his rock art heritage to share his culture and Namunidjbuk. This led to him this as well as evidence Lamilami’s son Patrick with children. A major heritage with the outside becoming a key player in two of trepang processing helped by contributing a project throughout 2020 was world. He believed that, major Australian Research camps on the shore near Mr didgeridoo, painting in the a community-focused book through education and Council funded research Lamilami’s outstation. gallery and participating with lots of photographs of raising awareness about the projects that commenced He was instrumental in a special celebration at rock art of Namunidjbuk. importance of his cultural in 2008, Picturing Change in research that dated a the museum in Kuching, The whole Namunidjbuk heritage, other people would that focused on rock art painting of a Macassan Sarawak, Malaysia. rock art sequence is help him look after it for made after the arrival of perahu at Djulirri to the late In 2014, Mr Lamilami presented in the form of a future generations. Macassans and Europeans, 1500s or early 1600s, helping was a participant in a rock story told by Mr Lamilami This led him to work with and Baijini, Macassans, to rewrite the history of art workshop sponsored and myself. This was a number of archaeologists, Balanda and Bininj, that contact between Aboriginal by the Getty Conservation completed late in 2020 and historians, linguists, film- looked at the history of people and southeast Asia. Institute (USA) in Kakadu copies were distributed to makers and other Balanda encounter between his This research, of which National Park. During the schools, family and friends. (non-Aboriginal) experts. ancestors and outsiders he was co-author, made 10-day meeting, 28 rock art His passion for But he was not simply from across seas and world headlines with conservation, management his country and for a Traditional Owner oceans. Rock art was hundreds of news reports and tourism specialists educating others about giving permission for recorded and some rock and special features in from across Australia its importance continued research as he enjoyed shelters excavated. magazines, including a and overseas met with throughout his life. fully engaging with it Through the course of prestigious American Aboriginal people from Mr Lamilami has left directly by participating in this research time and again publication, Archaeology. NSW, north Queensland, his family, community, fieldwork, making decisions Mr Lamilami would say that In 2011, Djulirri was central Australia, the Territorians, Australians on how research would rock art sites were like books included on the NT Heritage Pilbara and various parts of and the larger world a great proceed, contributing full of stories and really big Register. Mr Lamilami said the Top End to share their heritage legacy and no doubt to and co-authoring sites were libraries with at the time: “One of the perspectives, concerns stories of this will be told for academic publications, and records of everyone who had most extraordinary rock art and ideas about the future many years to come. participating in a number of passed through the region. complexes in the Territory – of rock art conservation films, including two episodes Mr Lamilami was in terms of pigment rock art, and management. *Prof Paul S.C. Taçon of the 2013 four-part award- particularly passionate about it is the largest, most varied The workshop included FAHA FSA is an ARC winning documentary Djulirri, a rock art complex and historically significant a special visit to another Australian Laureate First Footprints about the with over 3,000 paintings, across Australia”. significant Namunidjbuk Fellow, Chair in Rock Art 60,000-year history of stencils and figures made of Djulirri was then rock art site, Malarrak, led Research and Professor Aboriginal Australia. native beeswax and one of nominated for National by Mr Lamilami. A strategy of Anthropology and He gave lectures, Australia’s most spectacular Heritage listing in 2011 by to assist in the ongoing Archaeology, Griffith occasionally at universities rock art sites. the NT government, and protection and preservation University, Queensland.
April 2021 • www.nlc.org.au Land Rights News • Northern Edition 31