Aboriginal Way www.nativetitlesa.org Issue 76, Spring 2019 A publication of South Australian Native Title Services

Above: Anangu travelled from communities around Uluru for Inma to celebrate the close of the climb. Anangu celebrate climb close The gate to the climb at Uluru has now Tijangu Thomas, an Anangu Park Ranger honouring the old people and so many “The reason for getting the land right closed permanently and hundreds was also there at the base of the climb and of them have passed away now” he said. back was to close the climb because of Anangu from communities across explained some of the emotion of the day. it’s a sensitive area and the previous Tourists have been consistently climbing Central have gathered to people who’ve passed away, the “Its rather emotional, having elders who Uluru since 1963 when a climbing celebrate the historic moment of traditional owners were suffering and picked up this long journey before I was chain was drilled into the rock without self-determination. ended up being distressed because born, to close the climb. And now they’re consultation with Anangu. they treading on a important place The gate was shut at 4pm on Friday no longer here but we’re carrying on their and disrespectful” he said. 25 October, to remain closed from the legacy to close the climb” he said. In recent weeks the numbers of visitors permanent close date of Saturday 26 climbing the rock has increased with On the day of the permanent close, Sammy Wilson, past Chair of the Uluru- October, which came on the anniversary of tourists flocking to make the climb before Tjulapai Carroll said that anyone visiting Kata Tjuta National Park and Chair of the the day ownership of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta the closure. On the day of the climb Uluru could understand the significance (CLC) told the ABC National Park was handed back to Anangu. close climbers queued from before dawn of the place. that the day had a bitter sweet feeling. to take the now well worn path up the Nellie Patterson was one of the senior “The culture since the very beginning has “Obviously, we are all really happy, and sacred rock. traditional owners waiting at the base been here, it is right here in places like of the climb for the moment to come. it is great to see so many visitors come Anangu have wanted the climb closed the rock, it holds the culture” she said. from Australia and internationally to “No more climbing for today – closed! for many years, since the hand back appreciate the place” he said. “If you come here and you look and learn, Thank you very much” she exclaimed of the country, a former Chair of the then you will start to understand.” to cheers as the permanent closure “But I must say, there is a sadness inside Uluru Kata-Tjuta National Park Donald sign went up. me too. Because the closure is really Fraser explained. Continued on page 4

Inside: A reserve highlighting Kaurna culture gains recognition 6 SA Aboriginal artists display their work at Our Mob 8 Vale Tauto Sansbury 10 Department changes approach for Aboriginal children 14 Working together to bring them home

After years of uncertainty and loss, groups. Things got mixed up. But, as we the Kaurna community were able come together, we understand those to lay some of their old people to histories. We need to understand those rest on their traditional lands in an histories to move on. So I encourage you emotional ceremony in late July. today, young people here today, learn your histories. Because, without those Kaurna leaders went to to histories, we can’t move on. If we learn collect around 800 ancestral remains, those histories, that informs us to make some of which had been stored in better decisions about how and where London’s Natural History Museum we stand in this country” he said. and brought them home to be buried. Mr Newchurch told Aboriginal Way that Kaurna Elder Jeffrey Newchurch has educating the next generation is crucial been a driving force behind the for success. repatriation of Aboriginal remains. “Most importantly for me, is for our “I have been entrusted by my elders, young people to be educated. Because years ago, and my community, to push we are locked in the past and not only this conversation, and to make sure it Aboriginal people, non-Aboriginal people happens. We are starting to get a better need to be educated. We need to relationship with the SA museum and empower young people so that they the State Government, and we are now can take on more and build a better pushing for more to be returned. For me it’s future” he said. about allowing us to heal and for us do our business our way” he told Aboriginal Way. The Premier, Steven Marshall MP did not attend the ceremony but in a statement Mr Newchurch said the support of the said the work of the Kaurna community wider community is important. should not go unnoticed. “We can’t as Aboriginal people heal “The significance, and importance, of alone. We need the wider community this occasion and what this reburial and this is not only government this all means for your community, cannot be community people. Because, they add overstated. However, I also acknowledge strength” he said. the emotional and spiritual distress that Support was shown at the reburial at the taking of old people from country Kingston Park last month where around has caused. I extend my sympathies to 400 people and media attended the you all. This repatriation ceremony, as emotional ceremony. with the Tennyson repatriation in August 2018, marks a turning point for the Kaurna man Allan Sumner, spoke at Kaurna community and Aboriginal South the ceremony about the importance Australians more broadly. The Kaurna of understanding history. community’s ongoing efforts to repatriate “When we think about the devastation ancestral remains continues to forge a of our culture here, particularly in the path for, and inspire, other Aboriginal southern states; our loss of language, communities in South Australia to do our systems, our family systems, our the same” said the Premier.

Above, left to right from top: Jack Buckskin; Allan Sumner; John Carty; Clinton Wanganeen; Kaurna community members lay their old people to rest.

2 Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019 Above: Kaurna community members, including Frank Wanganeen, Garth Agius, Jeffrey Newchurch and Lynette Crocker, gather to farewell old people.

Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019 3 Anangu celebrate climb close Continued from page 1 died while attempting the climb and The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park before the close, only around 18 percent many others have been injured or Board, which is made up of a majority of of visitors to the Park were climbing. Senior Anangu Reggie Uluru said that have to be rescued. traditional owners made the final decision the closure of the climb was another One of the other deciding factors for to close the climb two years ago. important step for self determination “Too dangerous, you can slip and fall and closing the climb was ensuring there are They resolved to close the climb when “We are all very happy, as traditional kill yourself” Mr Uluru told media on the enough alternative attractions for visitors the proportion of visitors to the park owners that the climb is closed now, day of the close. to Uluru to ensure that tourism and the taking on the climb fell to below 20 after a long fight from handback to associated economic benefits continues. “So that’s part of that pressure off us, we per cent. Approximately 11 per cent of today” he said through an interpreter. don’t have to worry about people harming visitors to the Park were tackling the Mr Wilson said that the traditional The Uluru climb is also notoriously themselves or worse, so of course we challenging climb in recent years. Even owners want more support to develop dangerous, at least 35 people have are very happy that it’s all finished now.” with the boom in climbing numbers and operate tourism experiences.

Above, left to right from top: Senior Anangu gather as climb is closed permanently; Tijangu Thomas and Mike Misso from Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park at the new permanent close sign at the base of Uluru; crowds gather to wach as the final climbers descend from Uluru; Park Ranger closes the climb gate for the last time; Senior man performer at Inma following the close climb; Girls perform at Inma following the close climb Johnny Jango from Mutijulu and Bruce Swan from Kings Canyon at Climb Close celebration; Centralian Women’s Choir performs at climb close celebration; men perform Inma at Climb Close celebration.

4 Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019 “What I see here is really an opportunity, with the climb closing today. It is done. It is finished. But what I’m looking at Garma 2019 talks about the Voice around me is beautiful country, great Prominent Gumatj Elder “There were lots of conversations, “Whenever I talk about , I’m country, that we want to take people Dr Galarrwuy Yunupingu has told the particularly around the treaty talking about multiple , that’s into” he said. 2019 Garma Festival that his people conversation, and Uluru Statement what people seem to be telling me “These places you see are surrounded by will lodge a ground breaking claim from the Heart was a big driver of at this stage” Mr Dodson said at the so many great homelands and so much for native title compensation over conversations up there last week” conference, the NITV reported. Tjukurpa: traditional lore and stories, in a bauxite mine on their country. Ms Reid told Aboriginal Way. the surrounding country too” he said. Mr Dodson said he would provide a The establishment of the mine was the “The Uluru Statement makes it really report to the NT Chief Minister that CLC CEO Joe Martin-Jard said the closure subject of high profile dispute in the detailed the key issues that needed of the climb is one of the rare occasions clear around what we want as Aboriginal 1960s. It was established in the face to be consulted about. since the handback of the country that people. We in Reconciliation SA fully of strident opposition from traditional the traditional owners are asserting their support the Uluru Statement and the owners, led by Dr Yunupingu’s father. The festival featured the culture of the sovereignty and cultural authority. Voice Treaty Truth component of that. The controversy was a catalyst for the people of Eastern Arnhem Land. “For more than three decades, Anangu establishment of the Northern Territory’s “Minister Wyatt’s obviously looking at that The Garma debut of young Gumatj went along with joint management even Land Rights Act. and has taken that as his lead and we’ll boy Joevhan Burarrwanga, the great though there were limited benefits and be watching and offering any support we grandson of Dr Yunupingu captured they put up with pressure to let tourists Dr Yunupingu told the audience at Garma can from Reconciliation SA’s perspective widespread attention. He joined his family climb over their sacred sites” Mr Martin- that the mine has damaged significant to help progress that here in South for the traditional ceremonial welcoming Jard said. dreaming sites of the Gumatj people. Australia” she said. dance, the Bunggul. “We look forward to a brighter future as It’s expected the claim will rest on His grandmother Lisa Yunupingu told the we celebrate an act of self-determination” Meanwhile the NT is progessing with precedents set by the Timber Creek case, ABC that he’s been practising the ancient he said. a locally based treaty process. Mick but the claim could seek compensation dance since he could walk. Dodson, who was appointed NT Treaty A joyous celebration at sunset the day for activity that commenced earlier than Commissioner in March, explained at “I was very proud of him dancing, he following the close heard speeches were covered by that matter. Garma that his role was to gauge interest was too little last year but I knew when from Anangu leaders and politicians. Managing Practitioner and Director at in treaty in the Northern Territory rather he started walking that he was just going Arma Legal, Hema Hariharan told National Inma performed by Anangu from than treaty negotiate himself. to get in there” she said. communities across the region delighted Indigenous Times (NIT) that due to this, the happy crowd. The beautiful voices of Dr Yunupingu’s claim will be new territory the Centralian Women’s Choir rang out for native title compensation claims. across the desert at the vantage spot in “Generally, it’s known that compensable front of Uluru. acts are those that occurred after the The night included a performance Racial Discrimination Act 1975 came by Shane Howard (below), who sang into effect. Dr Yunupingu is lodging a new verison of his iconic song Solid compensation application for acts pre- Rock. Written by Howard and Anangu 1975, so this is a new area of the law Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara man again” Ms Hariharan said to NIT. Uncle Trevor Adamson, the new song is titled Palma Wiru Uluru, which means Across the four day event, Garma 2019 ‘Really Special Uluru’. was dominated by talk of Indigenous recognition and constitutional reform, on national and regional levels.

The Uluru Statement from the Heart and the call for Voice, Treaty Truth was a key topic of debate at the festival. Last year’s Garma festival heard the then Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, reject the call for a constitutionally enshrined Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

Many present at the festival were keen to hear the perspective of Australia’s first Indigenous person with the role of a Federal Minister for Indigenous affairs, Ken Wyatt.

Pressed by the media on the Coalition government’s position on the Voice, the minister said any approach would “have to be very pragmatic”. The night was finished off with a “Why would you take a question to the performance by Midnight Oil frontman Australian people if the majority will not and former Federal Politician Peter support it and the majority of the states Garrett (above), including his land rights song Beds are Burning. and territories don’t support it” Mr Wyatt told the ABC. People have expressed concern that tourism numbers will drop now that Mr Wyatt said while the proposal of a Voice the climb has closed. Vincent Forrester to parliament was still a viable option, he from Mutijulu community discussed was “going to look at the pragmatic ways the question with NITV. forward. We have to be very considered, very measured. But we have to consider “What are we going to make Uluru all the other options as well.” disappear? Its going to be here for all the time. We want visitors to come, please Executive Director of Reconciliation SA come, and we will show you our country. Shona Reid attended the festival as a guest of Reconciliation Australia and “Now we can start a new chapter in Above, from top: Reconciliation Australia’s GARMA Women Program participants 2019 hosted by the history of our country and welcome Yothu Yindi Foundation Board member Djairri Mununggirritji (front row centre); Galarrwuy Yunupingu and Ken Wyatt at the opening ceremony. Djapirri and heard discussions on the Photo: Peter Eve, Yothu Yindi Foundation; Senior Gumatj man Eddie Gumbula and Galpu women the world to experience it through our performing bunggul (traditional dance). Photo: Melanie Faith Dove, Yothu Yindi Foundation; eyes” he said. Uluru Statement and treaty. Young Jovan taking part in bunggul (traditional dance). Photo: Peter Eve, Yothu Yindi Foundation.

Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019 5 A new-look reserve highlighting Kaurna culture gains r

The newly redeveloped Felixstow the irrigation to the reserve, and so it Mr Barnes said that engagement with “One represents weaving, tankyaldi and Reserve in Adelaide’s east has been became quite bare, dusty, and weedy Kaurna people was crucial to the project, traditional uses of witu, the common awarded for outstanding landscape in the summer. It wasn’t very well used and commenced on finding the scar tree. reed. There’s also a fishing spear. There’s design, including its recognition and the condition of the facilities, there an ibis and also a digging stick” he said. “When the canoe scar tree was found, of Kaurna culture at the 2019 SA wasn’t anything to offer” he said. we consulted with the Kaurna community, The ibis features in the Tjilbruke story, Landscape Architecture Awards. The scene at Felixstow now is and the elders gathered their people which is of great cultural significance The Reserve’s design received three very different. and youth. to the Kaurna people. Digging sticks awards; the Award of Excellence, were used by Aboriginal women and has “Now, it’s lush and beautiful, particularly “They had options of what they could Landscape Architecture Award and the cultural links to the Karrawirra pari. The with the wetlands that have been do; they could leave it in place, they inaugural winner of the category, ‘Healthy fishing spear was used by Aboriginal built there and the native vegetation, could move it to try and preserve it in Parks and Healthy People’ for the project’s males and has cultural links to the river. indigenous plants that have gone in. some other way, or it could be moved quality use of open public space. The cyperus gymnocalus (Spiny Flat- There’s a real richness of facilities there; to another site. The jury said that the park is a there’s a pavilion, there’s a basketball Sedge) was a favoured sedge for weaving “celebration of rich local history and living court, ping pong table, bocce court. “The Kaurna elders listened to their youth, used by Aboriginal women. The reed culture from a bi-cultural perspective” There’re also walking trails and nature who wanted it to remain there, and I thought spear was used by Aboriginal men. that was pretty important and special. and “the jury commends the project team play, and you can hear the sounds of Paul Herzich also designed interpretive for delivering a great outcome for the wildlife and other things. There’re people “Taking on that advice, we were then information that uses Kaurna language Kaurna and broader community”. there using the space, so it’s really able to work with them with options for the park. active now” Mr Barnes said. around how the canoe scar tree was Kaurna elder Lynette Crocker told “We felt it was really important to involve designed around. They gave us input on Aboriginal Way that the new reserve is an The reserve is located not far from the and use the language of the Kaurna people. how families might be able to go down important recognition of Kaurna culture. River Torrens (Karrawari Pari) and Fourth It’s really become rich that way. There’s Creek (Marriyarta Pari) which are both there and teach about some of the “This is a beautiful natural space not only also interpretive signage around plants connected to traditional Kaurna seasonal cultural uses that are appropriate for the people who live in that area but and their uses, and the Kaurna seasons. activities and dreaming stories. It is also for Kaurna men and women to know also a space that Kaurna people can go We have a marker there with a calendar home to a scar tree, which was used by as they grow” Mr Barnes said. and feel like they belong” she said which is obviously different to our four Kaurna people to make a canoe more The tree is now clearly marked with seasons that we know” Mr Barnes said. “Its step towards Norwood Payneham than 200 years ago. signage and a seating area. It is just council acknowledging past occupation The cultural markers and signage are The identification of the scar tree was a one of a series of cultural markers of Kaurna people in particular in this significant, Ms Crocker said and mean central reason Kaurna people became and language signs connected by an area” she said. a lot to Kaurna people. involved in the park’s development. interpretive trail at the park, created Project Manager Jared Barnes explained by Ngarrindjeri and Kaurna Landscape “The cultural markers we don’t see much “There’s not that many trees like that. that just before the development the area Architect, Paul Herzich. of it in the city at all to say that we were There’s some smaller ones, that have was a derelict open paddock. once here” she said. been used as for example coolamons, Mr Barnes explained that the cultural “I think maybe 10 years ago when we but because of the size, we assume that markers speak about traditional “The use of indigenous plants is also had the droughts, the council turned off it was a canoe tree” Ms Crocker said. practices, flora and fauna from the area. significant to Kaurna” Ms Crocker said.

6 Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019 s recognition Future directions for “It’s good to see some of the flora connection with how people traditionally and fauna that was there before used the river and the encampments of Reconciliation in SA colonisation, before the councils were the Kaurna people” he said. among Indigenous and non-Indigenous even developed and so its bringing people in South Australia, but draw on back that cultural knowledge. Ms Crocker gave some insight into how the new area near the river was reflective national plans. “Some of our customs, some of the of Kaurna traditional ways of life. plants that we used as bushtucker, like “We’ve really aligned our strategic plan the wattle for example. “Kaurna people moved, they moved with the five pillars of reconciliation that up into the hills in winter, and that was Reconciliation Australia has set forth” “The wattle was crushed up and made Ms Reid said. like winter camp, and in summer they into damper and some of the medicinal properties of wattle seeds – it lowers moved down to the beach, so part Those five pillars are: race relations, your blood sugar levels” Ms Crocker said. of that river area was like a cultural equality and equity, institutional integrity, corridor where people went backwards historical acceptance and leadership The park design includes a nature play and forwards along there. So they and representation. space on lower ground near the river. would have camped near wherever The space incorporates a number of “I’m keen to see what role South Australia there was water. So this was in an steel cubbyhouses, inspired by wardli has in positioning ourselves in supporting ideal position for where people might (huts) and other natural features. Work to advance reconciliation the national movement, that’s really around camp” she said. in South Australia will focus on looking at how we can influence the Mr Barnes said that design team from educating and learning from the national agenda here in South Australia. Aspect Studios wanted to ensure that Overall, Ms Crocker agrees with younger generation, according to there was a strong connection with the the assessment of the SA Landscape “How can we best contribute to the the lead body for reconciliation river in the park. Awards jury, and feels that the national movement and get our South in the state. reserve creates a positive space Australian community behind that and “Obviously, the river was very important The Executive Director of Reconciliation to the Kaurna as they used it for transport, for all community but particularly walk together on this?” she said. SA Shona Reid told Aboriginal Way that the food, other uses. There were traditional Kaurna people. latest strategic plan for the organisation A part of that national focus is supporting camps as the Kaurna moved about. “In the consultation and negotiation for has a strong focus on education. the proposals held in the Uluru Statement “So, they did some interpretive pieces in Felixstow, we have developed a beautiful from the Heart, according to Ms Reid. “We have a strong commitment to creating a nature play space with rocks natural space not only for the people working with our youth, Aboriginal and “We’re also looking at, in terms of the Uluru and logs that can be climbed on. who live in that area but also a space non-Aboriginal youth in South Australia” Statement and how we can help here in “But these wadli, they have reinterpreted for Kaurna people” she said. she said. South Australia around a voice and creating opportunities for Voice to Parliament. those into cubby houses for kids to play For further information about “Our education portfolio is significant for in, and things like that. Felixstow Reserve, visit the Council’s us because we truly believe that the kids “We want to start laying that path here “Hopefully people are using their website at www.npsp.sa.gov.au/ are the ones that are going to be doing in South Australia, and working with imaginations and making some sort of majorprojects the big changes, and as adults and as a our local government here, our state community, we need to help facilitate and parliament here. So that’s something allow that conversation and that change that we’re keen to do and progress to happen. So education’s a huge part further” she said. of our work. Reconciliation SA will also undergo “We’re keen to tackle the complex some organisational changes, with a new issues of racism in our schools and membership model Ms Reid revealed. helping students identify ways that they can deal with racism, not just for “We’re about to enter into a new them experiencing it but also if they’re membership model for Reconciliation SA witnessing it, and how as a collective in this coming 12 months. So we’ll be we can start stamping out racism in able to provide opportunities for people our environments.” to become members of Reconciliation Reconciliation SA also has a strong SA, and have greater involvement in this focuss on businesses and how movement here” she said. organisations can contribute to Overall Ms Redi is confident that reconciliation. A significant part of reconciliation in the state is strong. change is organisations developing Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPS) “We held two big events earlier this year. Ms Reid said. One in February, which is the anniversary “The development of Reconciliation of the Apology to the , Action Plans is a priority for us here in we also have a Reconciliation Day breakfast. South Australia, as well as supporting “I think that’s our best gauge at this point our business and our corporate sector in time, around how the movement’s to have a look inwardly around how they going. We had record numbers at both operate and how they engage Aboriginal of those, and we’re nearly hitting two services, Aboriginal businesses, or thousand people at those events. We’ve create work environments that are safe. also had greater take up of Reconciliation “Talking to them around working with action plans than ever before. our First Nations people here in South Australia is something that’s just makes “For little old South Australia, that’s a lot of good business sense and that it can people. And that’s a lot of people who are promote and enhance your business enthusiastic and a lot of people who we’ve and your experience in the business got an opportunity to talk to and share sector” she said. the latest thinking around Reconciliation.

Reconciliation SA’s plans are not just “So I’m thinking that the movement here focussed on improving understanding in South Australia is strong” Ms Reid said.

Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019 7 Weaving Hand gets a hand from Our Mob Ngarrindjeri, Nurungga, Ngadjuri a mixed media of sand and paint as well do stories about our culture but, because Ms Rankine says that Our Mob’s inclusion woman Sonya Rankine was to develop that work, so yeah, it’s an I’m still learning about it, I can’t put down of recognition for younger artists is announced the winner of the Don interesting piece of work, I think. things that I don’t know. My family have crucial for the future. Dunstan Foundation Our Mob been really encouraging and said, “Just Artist Greg Burgoyne has been an artist “I think it’s an invaluable tool that young Emerging Artist Prize during the paint what you know, and you’ll gradually for almost twenty years, his heritage is people can have for their own expression. 2019 Our Mob exhibition opening at learn more and more”. So far, it’s a very from the west coast of South Australia, I think it’s also so important to inspire our Adelaide Festival Centre in August. exciting journey” Ms Bromely said. but the inspiration for his painting at Our young artists, inspire our next generation The prize win will allow the Moonta Bay Mob this year came from his stepfather’s Cedric Varcoe received a special of Aboriginal artists. resident to build her business, Lakun country, he told Aboriginal Way. mention in the Emerging Artist award “We all doubt ourselves, and I think a lot Mara (Weaving Hand), which focuses on “Well, this story’s about the emu and the at the Opening Night, and two other of young people doubt themselves. To the revival and maintenance of traditional Milky Way. It’s a story of my stepfather’s prizes were awarded: the Country Arts have this opportunity to present their art Ngarrindjeri weaving techniques and country in northern New South Wales SA Professional Development Initiative pieces here and have everybody there, cultural practice. and lower Queensland. It’s been handed Award, won by Rowena Williams of and even sell a piece is always a bonus. Ms Rankine impressed the judges with down to him, and it’s been passed on to Coober Pedy; and the Ku Arts Our Young I think the exposure, and the inspiration her woven sculptures, titled Lakun Mara generations before him and after him. Mob Award, won by Leshaye Swan for for themselves, but what they can gain 13 – Pinyali Pempandawi (Emu Basket) her portrait of her great grandmother from looking at other Aboriginal artists’ “The image in the sky symbolises when and Lakun Mara 14 – Partar Pempandawi Margaret Ngupulya Pumani. Tkeyah Ware work from around South Australia, it’s the emus are in season, when they’re (Rock Basket) made from jacaranda was highly commended in the Young Our invaluable, and I hope that it takes them mating. It’s like period through the spring stalks, beach stone, waxed linen thread, Mob section. far” Ms Rankine said. months where the weather conditions suit palm inflorescence, and emu feathers. the animals for mating. In this painting, Ms Rankine spoke to Aboriginal Way just as you can see, the man is pointing at after the prize presentation and said the the emu in the sky, telling the story of the award was a welcome recognition of her Milky Way, what it means to his people. Ngarrindjeri culture. It’s also handed down from God, as part “It was a really big surprise, I think of a totem, to everybody to share. It’s because it is all about being Ngarrindjeri. very symbolic to my stepfather, and to Ngadjuri are also weavers, but my weaving me too” Mr Burgoyne said. started from being a Ngarrindjeri woman, Mr Burgoyne said that he values the learning it from Aunt Ellen Trevorrow, and way Out Mob allows Aboriginal artists now I’m taking it to different places. I love to display the richness of culture. weaving. Just love it” she said. “Well, just to celebrate our culture with Our Mob marked its 14th year this year all walks of life, not just my own people. and provides many Aboriginal artists with To show the world that we’re not just a valued opportunity to exhibit their work, about chasing kangaroos in the bush, said Elizabeth Close, a Pitjantjatjara and we’re about art and culture, as well, and Yankunytjatjara contemporary artist. embracing all cultures in life. We express She told Aboriginal Way that she first it through our art, through our colors, got involved with Our Mob very early in through our color pallet, and through her career. storytelling” he said.

“My first involvement with Our Mob was Artist Linda Bromley also said that the back in 2006 where I was on a bit of a artwork she is exhibiting at Our Mob downward track. is an important expression of her own culture and emerging identity. “My grandmother had passed away and I was struggling a lot, and so to “As someone who is only just process that grief I went back to what reconnecting with my Aboriginality, I’ve she and I did together and I started to been learning about song lines and what paint to process that grief. I painted they mean, so I thought that this could be one of the very few pieces that I painted. my song lines of my life” Ms Bromley said I entered into the Our Mob competition of her painting on display at Our Mob. and it was shortlisted. “Basically, it’s a visual map of what my “That was wonderful for me as a very, life has been and the really significant very emerging artist. I don’t think I’d things that have happened in it. Then, even really considered myself an artist at the colors are representative of my faith. that point to have my artwork displayed I’m a Christian, so the colors are very alongside some really incredibly talented representative of my faith in Jesus Christ. local artists and artists from also the “With all the foster homes that we’d been communities where I’ve come from in the in as young children, I just wanted to make remote APY land, so to have my work it a swirly kind of thing at the bottom, alongside theirs was really confidence- and then my life really opened up and building for me to then continue to go on completely changed once we went into and develop my practice into the practice this one particular foster home. Then, that it is today” Ms Close said. I thought, “What are the most important Ms Close had a new work on show this things that have really impacted me and year after having a few years off and changed who I am?”, so those are the returning to Our Mob in 2015. things that have gone onto my painting, represented by the circles, and also “It is very much about my connection to represented by different colours. country and that relationship that I have with the landscape. I actually use some “It’s been a very healing and therapeutic different mediums. It’s a work that’s on thing for me to put my life down and think wood, just like wood panels, and I used of stories. It’s been hard because I want to Above, from top: Linda Bromley and her brother; Greg Burgoyne; Leshaye Swan. Photo: Ben Searcy.

8 Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019 Above, left to right from top: Art work by Elizabeth close; Sonya Waters from Don Dunstan Foundation announces Sonya Rankine is winner of Our Mob 2019; Sonya Waters and Sonya Rankine. Photo: Ben Searcy; Work by Cedric Varcoe on display at Our Mob; Nathan May performs; Weaving work by Sonya Rankine; Cedrick Varcoe. Photo: Ben Searcy; Tkeyah Ware and family with her art work; Work by June Kunyi McInerney on display at Our Mob; Sonya Rankine with her grand daughter and Inawinytji Williamson from Ku Arts. Photo: Ben Searcy.

Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019 9 Vale Tauto Sansbury Mr Sansbury was a Chairperson and Director of SA Native Title Services from 2010. Current SANTS chair April Lawrie said that Mr Sansbury understood the role that native title could play in advancing Aboriginal people’s interests.

“Tauto was a fierce advocate for the Aboriginal community of South Australia to recognise their rights as native title holders, to advocate that the relationship between native title rights, and human rights, and social justice were integral to Aboriginal peoples recognition and inherent rights in this country.

“He defended people’s rights, he defended Aboriginal community rights, and he defended the rights of Above left: Tauto Sansbury and Grace Nelligan. Above right: Tatuo Sansbury with Garry Goldsmith and Kyam Maher on signing of the Buthera Agreement. Aboriginal individuals.

A passionate and prominent and most recently ran his own Aboriginal Mr Sansbury was involved in the state He was one of our most prominent advocate for social justice for cultural consultancy Garridja. based treaty process that resulted in the Aboriginal justice advocates in South Australia. He was known nationally. Aboriginal people Mr Tauto Sansbury Narungga people’s Buthera agreement, His accomplishments were recognised He had a reputation of being fearless and has been farewelled at large and signed in 2018. nationally in 2015 when he received the frank” she said. solemn funeral in Adelaide. NAIDOC Lifetime Achievement Award. Labor senator Pat Dodson said that Mr SA Native Title Services CEO Keith He was mourned by family, friends, Sansbury’s death would “leave a hole in “Tauto’s contribution is incalculable and his the South Australian political landscape”. Thomas said he was deeply saddened colleagues and politicians, who recalled a wisdom, knowledge, warmth, gentleness by the death of Mr Sansbury. fierce and formidable representative for and humour will be missed by many at “I was fortunate enough to meet with him Aboriginal people who was also a gentle home and around Australia” his family and some of the Narungga people when “Mr Sansbury was a courageous man family man with a unique sense of humour. said in a statement following his passing. they signed that Buthera Agreement who was always willing to tackle the big with the government and I think that’s questions and make the voice of the The Narungga elder, who was born in “He was a great man and an irreplaceable one of the few agreements that’s still in oppressed heard. He was a previous 1949 on Point Pearce Mission on the Yorke warrior and advocate for social justice.” existence between a government and Chairperson of Native Title Services Peninsula, died on 23 September 2019 Mr Sansbury’s partner of 12 years, First Nations people.” and during his time he brought passion after a battle with non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Grace Nelligan, told the ABC that he SA Premier Steven Marshall spoke at Mr and a fighting spirit to our area of work. Mr Sansbury spent his life fighting was proud of his Aboriginal identity and Sansbury’s funeral and acknowldedged His passing will be felt deeply within the tirelessly to improve the lives of Aboriginal overcame many challenges in his life. his effective advocacy for Aboriginal native title community” said Mr Thomas. people in South Australia. people through many roles, including “Being an Aboriginal man and a Narungga Ms Nelligan said she hoped the next gener- leading the National and South Australian man was probably the most important “On occasions Tauto and I did not agree, ation would carry on Mr Sansbury’s work. Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committees thing in his life, it gave him immense pride. but I was never in doubt about the “He was one of a kind, he’s irreplaceable, and involvement in the Royal Commission sincerity of his point of view, and I always “I think he used the disadvantage he and I would love to hope that there are into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody. considered him a friend. faced as a young man by being brutalised some young strong Aboriginal people He also worked as a consultant to the and abused in boys’ homes, he didn’t let “His passing is a great loss for the state” waiting in the wings to take over the SA government’s Social Inclusion Unit it destroy him.” Mr Marshall said. mantle from him” Ms Nelligan said. Five-day training workshop for PBC Directors PBC directors have had a chance The National Native Title Council (NNTC) better understand their PBC as a business. Using case studies the five-day to develop their skills in important with partners at RMIT, AIATSIS and The Native Title Operations & Management workshop covered topics including: management and governance areas Melbourne Business School have created Training for people involved in Aboriginal communications and marketing, with custom built training delivered training for Traditional Owners, PBC Corporations took place in Adelaide at business fundamentals (inc SWOT, in Adelaide recently. members, directors and their staff to the Hilton Hotel from 16–20 September. Force Field Analysis), strategic conversations and stakeholder relationships, governance structures, HR and finance, PBC regulations and CATSI Act requirements and fiduciary obligations and future acts.

The workshop also addressed how to pitch for grants, board personality and balance, leadership, negotiating and diplomacy within a PBC and included challenging and interactive activities throughout the week.

Participants were from South Australian and interstate PBCs.

Presenters included Ian Allsop, Senior Fellow at the Melbourne Business School and Dr Michal Carrington, Senior Lecturer at the University of Melbourne.

More information visit the National Native Title Council Above, left to right: Ian Allsop, Darren Wanganeen and Garth Agius; Representatives from Torres Strait Island PBCs; Fiona Giles; Michal Carrington. website: nntc.com.au

10 Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019 Reconsider compensation says QC

Native title compensation claims Ms Webb said that there is no easy “If that were the case, the to acknowledge and observe all your will be far more complex and costly formula to calculate compensation in Commonwealth could be liable to pay systems of governance, which in fact than the original native title claims the ‘forthcoming flood’ of native title ‘just terms’ compensation for any support your native title. and Governments need to reconsider compensation claims. extinguishment of native title by it since “Once you have it, in order to manage how to manage the large number 1901” Ms Webb said. “A determination of compensation it, native title holders have to set up a of cases that are expected to be involves issues of extinguishment and More might be payable to native title Western style corporation and act like lodged, says a leading native title detailed tenure histories as a step in groups if this were the case she said. a Western style company in order to barrister and former President of establishing the original existence of manage it. the Native Title Tribunal. “Furthermore, larger awards of native title” she said. compensation could be possible under “A lot of the rules around those In her 2019 John Mansfield Lecture a constitutional framework, given the “This means starting from the first act, corporations are actually in conflict with the Native Title Exists, Now What?, Raelene traditonally broad interpretation of ‘just even in the early colonial period, which traditional governance rules and undermine Webb QC said that “the spectre of terms’ in s 51 (xxxi) as being concerned had the potential to affect native title and in fact the native title, so that you find complex, lengthy and expensive native with fairness, while compensation then considering every act thereafter to that native title holders are continually title compensation claims to come” connotes monetary equivalence.” assess whether there was any effect on coming up with conflicts between what means that Governments should consider they need to do to maintain their culture any extant native title” she said. Ms Webb also addressed the non-litigated ways of compensating challenges facing native title groups in and the governance within their culture traditional owners for their loss of After the lecture, Ms Webb told Aboriginal managing their native title rights and and to maintain their native title. connection to country. Way that she hopes that governments will responsibilities. In the Mansfield lecture “So it’s quite a battle. It’s very, very see this legal challenge as an opportunity. she spoke of the contradiction between She argued that the complexity and difficult” she said. requirements to prove native title and volume of these cases “provides a reason “My hope is that the federal and those required to manage it. Ms Webb argues that this is also an and an opportunity for Federal, State state governments and the territory area that is in need of reform. and Territory governments to holistically governments will look at other ways of “The journey to recognition of native re-examine relationships with Indigenous resolving it and may even, I hope just title can be long and arduous; it is “I think it needs to be looked at and it people and to engage in a respectful say, ‘Look, isn’t there a better way?’ also disruptive for Indigenous groups needs to be looked at together as to manner to explore how the dispossession required to establish their adherence where there’s another way. Is there a way “This is throwing up a lot of problems. of land and cultural harm done to to traditonal laws and customs in order of actually allowing native title holders It’s going to be hugely expensive, hugely Indigenous peoples since 1788 may best to succeed. Once native title has been to manage their own affairs in the way divisive as native title claims are. And be addressed for the benefit of all”. determined to exist, furthe disruption that they want to manage them and in compensation, perhaps even more so, occurs, this time when non-Indigenous accordance with their decision-making Ms Webb reported that to date there now is a chance to actually reset the governance structures which contrast and accordance with their aspirations, have been 475 determinations of native relationship” she said. to Indigenous cultural governance are not what we think is good for them, but title with native title now recognised imposed” she said. what their aspirations are” Ms Webb said. as existing over more than 37% of the Under the Native Title Act, compensation She told Aboriginal Way that this situation Australian continent. is only payable after 1975 when the The 2019 John Mansfield Lecture is a ‘wicked problem’. Racial Discrimination Act commenced. was hosted by the Law School Where native title has been found to be “It’s a wicked problem because when at UniSA and is available to view extinguished, native title groups can claim However Ms Webb argued in her Mansfield you have to establish your native title, here: https://www.youtube.com/ monetary compensation for their loss. lecture that that provision could be you have to show how you continue watch?v=u1iiPbYCjz4 Last year’s Timber Creek case was the challenged on the basis of the ‘just terms’ first litigated native title compensation section 51 (xxxi) of the constitution. case and is seen to establish a basis for “…it may be arguable that certain future compensation claims. restrictions on compensation in the However, in her Mansfield lecture, Native Title Act are unconstitutional” Trial at Oodnadatta Ms Webb said that the way forward for she said. compensation is still not clear. The Federal Court has conducted a hearing on country at Oodnadatta, “Further, as the Commonwealth is at and in Adelaide to resolve overlapping native title claims made “Timber Creek will not be the final word bound by section 51 (xxxi) it may be by the Arabana and the Walka Wani. During the trial, which took place from on native title compensation. There is still possible for compensation claims to be 30 September to 25 October 2019, Justice White heard evidence of connection a lot of intuitive work to be done in trying made for losses that occurred before the to the Oodnadatta township and surrounds from people of Lower Southern to determine native title compensation Racial Discrimination Act commenced Aranda, Yankunytjatjara and Arabana descent. The trial will continue next year. awards on a case by case basis.” on 31 October 1975.

Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019 11 Our column in review features reviews and stories on Aboriginal writers, artists and musicians. We welcome your feedback and suggestions. So if you know of a new work about to published or an artist or musician please contact us on (08) 8110 2800. Minaaka Apinhanga – Through Many Eyes exhibiton, which appeared at the SA Museum in August and September 2019.

The exhibition included prints of Charles Mountford’s photographs up on the walls along with contemporary Adnyamathanha people’s responses to the images.

“You’ll see artworks from younger people. You’ll see stories, and video recordings, and audio recordings of older people telling stories about the people in the photographs themselves, as well” Ms Richards said.

The photographs at the centre of the research and exhibition were taken by Charles Mountford in 1930s when visiting Nepabunna. He had particular ideas when in review in taking the photos, Ms Richards explained An Adnyamathanha researcher “When I actually took back the to Aboriginal Way. has taken iconic historical photos photographs to elders, they were of her own community back to constantly coming, and they would just “Charles Mountford, when he went into her extended family and country yell out, and they’d be like, “Oh!” and the Flinders Ranges in the 1930s he was to uncover new layers of history, they’d just bring their grandchildren in, to expecting to come and record Aboriginal memory and connection. come look at the photographs while I was peoples and cultures. The old ‘salvage doing the interview. anthropology’, to try and salvage parts of In the 1930s, anthropologist Charles Aboriginal societies before they die out. Mountford documented Adnyamathanha “Or they’d start singing a song, or the kid And wanting to see a traditional kind of people with a series of well known would be there and they’ll start doing a way of life” she said. photographs which are held by the painting or something like that. South Australian Museum. “And so I realised very early that just “But when he actually came to the Adnyamathanha and Barngarla woman writing down the facts of this, what’s Flinders Ranges he found a community and researcher at the South Australian happening in these photographs, wasn’t that was incredibly dynamic and Museum Rebecca Richards wanted going to be enough, in that I needed to syncretic. And you have people who to explore and write about how show what was happening in a more have been working in stations for many, Adnyamathanha people responded to the artistic and a more holistic sense, and many years, but you also have people images as a part of her PhD research. that an exhibition would be a better with their own religious beliefs, and also medium in which to do that, rather than independence in work. But also traditional However she found that the emotional just writing on pieces of paper” she said. ways of living on country as well. responses she received from her Adnyamathanha community called for more And so Ms Richards developed the Charles Mountford had certain than just a traditional PhD document. Minaaka Apinhanga: Through Many Eyes expectations about how Aboriginal

12 Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019 people should look in his anthropological Those are the pictures that I chose for ... white histories and Aboriginal histories August and September 2019 photographs, Ms Richards said. the mantelpiece because I needed to are a little more intermingled than what www.samuseum.sa.gov.au talk from my own perspective.” the whitefellas would actually let you “Yeah, Mountford wanted everyone take Further information about Rebecca think” she said. their clothes off. He was like that with With a huge number of Aboriginal Richards is here: Her Story: Inspiring all Aboriginal people. You can’t see it as artefacts held in Museums in Australia The Minaaka Apinhanga: Through Women in Science www.samuseum. much in these photographs, but when and internationally, displaying that more Many Eyes exhibition was on show sa.gov.au/explore/exhibitions/her- you see his Arnhem land ones, later on personal connection to objects at the South Australian Museum in story-inspiring-women-in-science when he was doing filming, when he was is important, Ms Richards said. showing people doing a dance and then someone walks into the frame with a “I think that it’s important that museums t-shirt on, he actually tells that person off. show and exhibit these objects in a more Talking about the voice And then the other person’s like, ‘Oh no, personal light, because we need to show sorry’ and he walks off the frame again” them this is as a living culture, and that A local reconciliation group “It’s very important statement, to she laughs. Aboriginal society is ongoing. And that believes that awareness of the get a voice for Aboriginal and Torres it’s not gone on in the past or some kind Uluru Statement from the Heart Strait Islander people in government “That’s even though people really wanted of stone-age thing. And that what we are is dwindling and so has hosted and parliament. to wear their clothes and they were seeing are the histories and stories of an information session to discuss actually quite proud of what they were “We’re working towards reconciliation our ancestors, and that they need to be the proposal. wearing. One of the reasons for that was and gaining a voice is a part of process” respected as such” she said. because not only were Adnyamathanha The Blackwood Reconciliation Group’s he said. people who worked on the stations, open forum about the Uluru Statement There are many other Aboriginal curators The event was addressed by a and were very proud of working on the from the Heart on Wednesday October who are similarly trying to shift the panel comprising Chairperson stations, but Adnyamathanha, ourselves, 9 had standing room only, with over 300 way these materials are presented and APY Lands Executive Board Sally at the time, actually had a RM Williams people attending the community event. spoken about she says. Scales, David Rathman AM, Executive factory and actually were the” people The Uluru Statement from the Heart was “There are some amazing academics, Director of Reconciliation SA Shona who were very much crucial in the created at a national convention after a Reid, BRG Chairperson Allen Edwards creation of a lot of the RM Williams and historians, and heritage workers all series of regional forums of Indigenous and the Mayor of Mitcham Heather boot” she explained. throughout South Australia. people. It outlines a path forward for Holmes-Ross. For Ms Richards, what stood out “We’re seeing it, I guess, not just as this recognising in the nation’s system of government. about Adnyamathanha people’s is just our job, but we’re seeing this as The forum aimed to collect information from the panel discussion and feedback reactions to the photos was a advocacy, as as a way of talking back to Allen Edwards, a Kaurna, Kokotha man from community members to inform treasured opportunity to reconnect. the power that is silencing contemporary and Chairperson of the Blackwood further action. Aboriginal voices. Reconciliation Group (BRG) told Aboriginal “It was just an amazing opportunity to Way before the event that the group be sitting around people’s kitchens, and “By working in collections, by working, “We don’t plan to just have the forum and wanted to make sure that the Statement leave it at that, we hope it will lead to having a cup of tea, and reconnecting doing writing, and poetry, and art, and was not forgotten. further steps” Mr Edwards said. with many people that sometimes I hadn’t history we’re actually talking back to seen them for a very long time. narratives that say that we are gone, we “We just want to bring the Statement to Following the meeting, Blackwood the fore and into peoples minds again” “Also what really struck me and stayed are past, that Aboriginal people aren’t Reconciliation Group Committee Member with me, is a lot of the stories that I heard around anymore, and instead saying, ‘We “We feel that it hasn’t been really spoken Marie Gould reported that “Aboriginal about my great grandmother and my great are still here. Our histories matter and about much lately and just want to remind voices were listened to carefully and grandfather, because I’d never met them. these are our histories’. people what it’s all about” he said. significant resolutions to communicate to City of Mitcham passed.” “And so it was amazing just to have those “And they’re a lot more complicated and The Uluru Statement is an important pictures. They are in the pictures, there a lot more interesting, and they actually document and a crucial part of For futher information visit: on the mantelpiece (in the exhibition). do intermingle and relay a lot more with reconciliation, Mr Edwards said. www.mitchamcouncil.sa.gov.au/

Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019 13 Department taking action for Aboriginal children

Aboriginal children are significantly overrepresented in the child Department for Child Protection protection system across the Reconciliation Action Plan nation and in South Australia. JUNE 2019 – JUNE 2021 After major reform over the past few years, the South Australian Department of Child Protection (DCP) is now reframing the way it works with Aboriginal children and families. It is taking steps to make the system is more responsive to Aboriginal people’s perspectives and needs, according to DCP Director of Aboriginal Practice Tracy Rigney. “Ultimately, I believe everything that we do, every strategy and plan that we develop within our agency leads INNOVATE to a pathway of addressing the over Department for Child Protection Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan June 2019 – June 2021 Page 1 Tracy Rigney and Lenore Bagnara from Department of Child Protection. representation of Aboriginal children and young people in care” Ms Rigney The five elements crucial for appropriate The Action Plan has a strong focus on “The Reconciliation Action Plan is a told Aboriginal Way. service to Aboriginal children recognised partnering with Aboriginal organisations, innovative RAP and it’s based on four With this goal in mind, the Department in the plan are; prevention, partnership, Ms Rigney explained. key principles and that is relationships, placement, participation and connection. respect, opportunities and governance” has recently released three policy “It includes working intensively with statements – a Reconciliation Action Identification is recognised as the Ms Rigney said. the Aboriginal community controlled Plan, Aboriginal Employment Policy and essential first step. organisations, which we are starting Further, in the new Aboriginal a departmental Aboriginal Action Plan. to get better at doing through Employment Plan, the department Each presents proposals to re-orient Overall the plan has over 30 actions procurement processes, through has declared the goal of doubling the engagement with Aboriginal families. listed, including the development of targeted early support services, building partnering with different policies. employment of Aboriginal people from Significantly the Aboriginal Action Plan the capacity of Aboriginal organisations 5% to 10%. adopts the Aboriginal Child Placement “We have a long way to go yet, but to lead service delivery and increasing Principle, which has been championed we’re on the road of that journey, and Ms Rigney said this focus on the makeup by community groups in recent years. Aboriginal governance in decision making that’s the important thing.” of the Child Protection workforce is relating to services. important because of the history of “We’ve decided to base our Aboriginal The department has also introduced Aboriginal families and communities. Action Plan on the five elements that Progress on the actions will be reported a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), underpins the Aboriginal Child Placement on by the Aboriginal Practice Directorate to which influences all of the work it “Our agency inherited the Stolen Generation. Principle” Ms Rigney said. the Department’s Senior Executive Group. does said Ms Rigney. We take that really seriously, and so we State-wide consultations seek feedback on engagement reform

The Aboriginal community in the conversation I am having now” The model should: South Australia could have its he told Aboriginal Way. • improve government engagement own electoral roll to elect a The Commissioner said the electoral with Aboriginal people representative body which would roll will be voluntary and an integral step engage with the state government, • ensure the views of Aboriginal people towards self-governance. according to Aboriginal Engagement are represented in government Commissioner Roger Thomas. “I would like to see people wanting to decision making Dr Thomas is leading a State-wide participate and not be penalised if they • make recommendations regarding consultation to seek the views of choose not to vote. It will be all inclusive, improved partnerships between Aboriginal South Australians on ways to if you’re Aboriginal you can vote. I honestly government and the Aboriginal improve the working relationship between believe that if we’re going to be serious community of South Australia. State Government and Aboriginal nations. about our own self-determining respons- ibilities, then this is the way to An engagement body will be An engagement reform was included do it” he said. established that: in the Aboriginal Affairs Action Plan • contributes to state policy debate by released in December 2018 by the Dr Roger Thomas said he is optimistic influencing policy and laws affecting Premier Steven Marshall. Since then, about the new engagement model Aboriginal South Australians the Commissioner reports that he has and how it will benefit all Aboriginal consulted with Aboriginal advisors to South Australians. • makes recommendations to develop a proposed engagement reform Five members are to be elected by “My positiveness is driven by a reform government on issues and barriers and receive community feedback. the community and five members to that is going to be a legacy for the future raised by Aboriginal people or identified by the body Commissioner Thomas told Aboriginal Way be selected through an expression of our community in South Australia. of interest process. • makes recommendations to agencies that it is important that this engagement “We are looking for feedback and we model is driven by Aboriginal people. on policy and programs that impact The Commissioner said before will be putting a plan together soon to Aboriginal people “If we want to be serious about self- representatives can be elected, the progress with an electoral roll. I think determination, we have got to reform Aboriginal community need to have its we’re in new phase in our community, • continues the ongoing relationship how we engage with government and we own electoral roll, and this will take time. where we can put in place some very with strategic Cabinet meetings. must take ownership of that process, important milestones to help us move “If we propose to have half the Contact: Commissioner for including how we select people to talk forward” said Commissioner Thomas. members elected, this means we need Aboriginal Engagement on our behalf” said the Commissioner. to establish our own electoral roll. The Commissioner has developed guiding Free call 1800 931 733 The currently proposed model is a Well, it’s going to take at least three principles as a reference point for the [email protected] representative body which is made to six months for us to establish our discussion and development of potential GPO Box 320 Adelaide SA 5001 up of 10 members and a chairperson. own electoral roll and this is part of models of Aboriginal engagement: Fax (08) 8226 8999

14 Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019 not only want key Aboriginal people to work within our department, we want Aboriginal people with the necessary skills The SANTS year that that can build on those policies, develop those policies and be strong advocates in was 2018/2019 making sure that we’re starting to address the overrepresentation of Aboriginal Besides the Federal Court activity, children in care. SANTS has been very busy in supporting “We must do that because of the number PBCs in various activities to promote of children that we have in our care good governance and management of are either third, fourth, fifth of Stolen their native title rights and interests. Generation” Ms Rigney said. Activities have included support services Narungga Kaurna woman Lenore Bagnara to PBC Director’s meetings and AGMs, SOUTH AUSTRALIAN is Aboriginal Employment Consultant with governance training, strategic planning, the Department. She says that the goal financial management, risk management, NATIVE TITLE SERVICES in the Employment Strategy is ambitious decision making, corporate wellbeing, but important investment opportunities, business “It’s a big target to meet. It’s not easy development, partnering in projects Level 4 because not everybody is interested and employment programs, accounting 345 King William Street in working for the department. You’ve services, and HR support and advice. ADELAIDE SA 5000 got to be passionate about coming to the department, be passionate about There are vast differences between the capabilities of PBCs and SANTS will community business, be passionate SA Native Title Services (SANTS) continue to support them according to Editor about assisting and helping our has experienced an extremely children in care. their specific needs to continue their Keith Thomas busy year with an increased level transition to self-operating corporations. Ms Bagnara says that the department of activities across all native title is focussing on culture and retention applications that are currently SANTS has been compliant with both Communications Officers strategies to achieve its goal of before the Federal Court. corporation legislative requirements employing more Aboriginal people. and government funding conditions Lucy Kingston While SANTS maintains its preference and has continued to meet many of Kaliah Tsakalidis “Those five areas are really important for negotiated native title outcomes, our Operational Plan milestones. because it’s not only just about attracting the Federal Court is pushing native title Aboriginal people to the department applications into a litigation pathway. The Commonwealth Government to work for the department, it’s about Designer commissioned an external review of keeping them. So retention is a really big The Federal Court activity has impacted SANTS and other native title service Alison Fort factor for us. Being able to retain our staff SANTS in terms of staff working providers which was finalised during means that we have to help develop our hours and additional funding required this period. Conducted by external staff. We have to have an inclusive working to facilitate Court orders. In this consultancy company NOUS, the Advertising Enquiries environment and we have to value our environment, SANTS has been successful review clearly supported the good (08) 8110 2800 Aboriginal staff for the knowledge and the in obtaining additional funding from the performance of SANTS. skills that they bring” Ms Bagnara said. Commonwealth Government to meet Ms Rigney says that adressing issues of short term activity aims. This has enabled I pay my respects to the Aboriginal Circulation cultural competency of non-Aboriginal SANTS to maintain its staffing levels and community in South Australia and thank people in the organisation is also corporate knowledge, while delivering them for the privilege to work with them 10,000 important. The department is working on the activities imposed by the Court. as individuals and organisations. I look on that with a new tool they call the forward to continuing our productive and I must also give thanks to the continued Aboriginal cultural footprint. positive relationships in coming years. If you have any stories support and guidance of the Board, and of interest to our readers, “The purpose of that is actually to build the dedication and professionalism of Keith Thomas cultural competencies for non-Aboriginal staff working tirelessly to achieve positive Chief Executive Officer SANTS please address any people to learn about Aboriginal history native title outcomes for Aboriginal correspondence to: and why we as a statutory organisation people in South Australia. do what we need to do. [email protected] “It talks about many aspects of the Aboriginal cultural journey and is compulsory in our department. The first Aboriginal Way step is the Interactive Ochre Cultural South Australian Awareness Program, which is developed online. It gives workers opportunities to Native Title Services sit in their own time and really look at that Level 4 and understand that. That’s the first step. 345 King William Street “The second step is the impact program, ADELAIDE SA 5000 which we’ve partnered with the South Australian Museum, and they talk about Ph: 8110 2800 the history of Aboriginal Australia. Step Fax: 8110 2811 three is an introduction to the Aboriginal FREECALL: 1800 010 360 cultural responsiveness program.

“Step four is engaging effectively with Aboriginal children, families and The Editor has the final communities. So we’re getting key people from community to come in and do a bit decision on all stories and of presentation and share stories. That advertising that appear in seems to be really successful as well. this publication. “So the cultural footprint in its entirety is really being a success within our department and we’re very proud of that” Ms Rigney said. SANTS Annual Reports are available from: Report is now childprotection.sa.gov.au/ available from: www.nativetitlesa.org department/about-us nativetitlesa.org

Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019 15 Native Title Areas in South Australia

Get Aboriginal Way Individuals or organisations can request free copies of this ISSUE 76 publication. Complete the form below and mail to 4/345 King William Street, Adelaide 5000 or email details to [email protected] Name: ______Address: ______Postcode: ______Phone: ______Email: ______Aboriginal Way No. of copies: ______radio program …airs weekly on Indigenous and community radio. If you have an interesting story or event that you would like to share on radio, please contact Lucy Kingston on (08) 8110 2800 www.nativetitlesa.org or email [email protected] Listen online at https://www.nativetitlesa.org/aboriginal-way

16 Aboriginal Way, Spring 2019