Aboriginal Way www.nativetitlesa.org Issue 67, Winter 2017 A publication of South Australian Native Title Services

Above: NAIDOC SA March 2017. More photos page 4. Time for a First Nations Voice and Makarrata?

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander It was organised by the Referendum Commissioner attended the Uluru that we have a voice which will be heard people from around Australia have Council as a new step in the constitutional Convention and she says that a forever,” Dr Oscar said during her 2017 called for constitutional change to reform process. Members of the constitutionally enshrined body giving Mabo Lecture. create a First Nations Voice and Referendum Council involved in the Indigenous people a voice is crucial. the establishment of a Makarrata process included Noel Pearson, Pat Thomas Mayor is Secretary of the Commission for truth telling and Anderson and Professor Meagan Davis. “The Mabo decision entrenched the NT branch of the Maritime Union and treaty making. recognition of the rights of Aboriginal was elected to the Uluru Convention The statement attempts to reconcile and Torres Strait Islander peoples in The Uluru Statement from the Heart many different Indigenous people’s views representing his region. He is on the was the result of the Uluru First Nations Australian law and created a policy on the shape of constitutional reform. Working Group chosen to carry forward environment for agreement making. Convention, which was the culmination the proposals from the Convention. of a series of First Nations Regional Dr June Oscar, Aboriginal and It is only logical that we advance our Dialogues held across the country. Torres Strait Islander Social Justice rights to be constitutionally accepted so Continued on page 2

Inside: Celebrating the landmark 1967 Referendum 3 25 years since Mabo decision 6 Sorry Day 20 years after the Bringing Them Home report 12 Jack Buckskin on why our languages matter 14 Constitutional reform push now for a permanent First Nations Voice and Makarrata Continued from page 1

He says the Uluru representatives were deliberately seeking a permanent voice to the Australian parliament.

“The discussion about the voice is that it needs to be in the constitution because, like ATSIC was abolished, this wasn’t a call for the reforming of ATSIC, but ordinary legislation can be scratched out, just by the decision of the government of the day.

“It’s important that voice is something that’s in the constitution, that gives a voice that cannot be removed,” he said

The Working Group’s website 1voiceuluru.org says that it is likely that that voice would be an elected First Nations national representative body, and that it would be empowered to give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people a Above: Dr June Oscar and Uncle Ossie Cruse at the Uluru Convention. voice in laws that affect them. During the Uluru Convention, a small involvement, participation and making “Importantly getting a couple of The second key part of the Uluru group of delegates and their supporters informed decisions. Because they were hundred people into one Convention Statement was to call for a Makarrata walked out of talks, saying that it was presented with options and insights to talk specifically about what we want Commission. Makarrata is a Yolgnu a flawed process. and perspectives on a very legal and in regards to constitutional change word meaning ‘a coming together complex issue. Victorian delegate, Lydia Thorpe, told was a really unique opportunity for our after a struggle’. NITV that agreement among delegates “There were debates, there were generation and I thought that it had to According to 1voiceuluru.org, the was no longer possible. challenges. There were people hearing be grabbed with both hands,” he said. Makarrata Commission would have each other out. And there was a large “We as sovereign First Nations people The Referendum Council provided their two roles: supervising a process of group of people who came from reject constitutional recognition. We final report on the consultations to the agreement-making, and overseeing communities where they thought that do not recognise occupying power or a process of truth-telling. this process wasn’t the process that Prime Minister and Opposition Leader their sovereignty, because it serves to would deliver what they wanted. on 30 June 2017. Mr Mayor says that the Makarrata disempower, and takes away our voice,” Commission would play an important she said. “So many however of the participants The Prime Minister and Opposition role in moving forward, including saw this process as the delivering Leader released the Referendum The Uluru Statement from the Heart considering issues of Treaty. the vehicle to be able to have the Council’s report on 17 July 2017. was formulated in the days following conversation – with the government, In line with the Uluru Statement from “The Makarrata Commission would be the protest by those delegates. with the Australian people, on this very the Heart, the Referendum Council somewhat of an umpire, with a frame According to Dr Oscar the Convention important issue of constitutional reform work about Treaty making that makes recommended only one change to the was designed carefully to take all views for our voice post the 67 referendum,” sure that the negotiations are fair, and Constitution be proposed – that a First into account. said Dr Oscar. representative and also be an umpire that Nations Voice to Federal Parliament would assist our people to find the best “I think most people felt like they had Mr Mayor said that the Uluru Convention be created. For further information visit possible results,” he told Aboriginal Way. some real good opportunities for was a challenging but important process. www.referendumcouncil.org.au

Uluru Statement from the Heart We, gathered at the 2017 and Torres Strait Islander peoples who We are not an innately criminal people. Makarrata is the culmination of our National Constitutional were born therefrom, remain attached Our children are aliened from their agenda: the coming together after a Convention, coming from all thereto, and must one day return thither families at unprecedented rates. This struggle. It captures our aspirations points of the southern sky, make to be united with our ancestors. This link cannot be because we have no love for for a fair and truthful relationship with this statement from the heart: is the basis of the ownership of the soil, them. And our youth languish in detention the people of Australia and a better or better, of sovereignty. It has never in obscene numbers. They should be our Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait future for our children based on Islander tribes were the first been ceded or extinguished, and co- hope for the future. justice and self-determination. sovereign Nations of the Australian exists with the sovereignty of the Crown. These dimensions of our crisis tell plainly We seek a Makarrata Commission to continent and its adjacent islands, How could it be otherwise? That peoples the structural nature of our problem. supervise a process of agreement- and possessed it under our own laws possessed a land for 60 millennia and this This is the torment of our powerlessness. making between governments and and customs. This our ancestors sacred link disappears from world history We seek constitutional reforms to First Nations and truth-telling about did, according to the reckoning in merely the last two hundred years? of our culture, from the Creation, empower our people and take a rightful our history. according to the common law from With substantive constitutional change and place in our own country. When we have In 1967 we were counted, in 2017 structural reform, we believe this ancient power over our destiny our children will ‘time immemorial’, and according to we seek to be heard. We leave base sovereignty can shine through as a fuller flourish. They will walk in two worlds and science more than 60,000 years ago. camp and start our trek across expression of Australia’s nationhood. their culture will be a gift to their country. This sovereignty is a spiritual notion: this vast country. We invite you to the ancestral tie between the land, Proportionally, we are the most We call for the establishment of a First walk with us in a movement of the or ‘mother nature’, and the Aboriginal incarcerated people on the planet. Nations Voice enshrined in the Constitution. Australian people for a better future.

2 Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 Celebrating the landmark 1967 Referendum On May 27, Australia celebrated “Increasingly people began to understand “Throughout history rights for many Dr Jackie Huggins is the co-chair of the 50 years since the successful that Aboriginal people ought to matter, people have rarely be won without a National Congress of Australia’s First 1967 Referendum, which ought to be counted,” he said. fight. Just about every right that Peoples. As a child, Jackie helped her acknowledged Indigenous people Aboriginal people have gained in this mother hand out how to vote cards in “The referendum count wasn’t just a as citizens of the nation for nation have been won not granted. Brisbane for the ’67 referendum, symbolic gesture, but the symbolism of it the first time and allowed the The referendum’s resounding yes came Federal Government to make laws alone was nevertheless very powerful. “As a young child I saw the struggles about because of tireless advocacy specifically for Indigenous people. and I saw the campaign unfold, which “It was the beginning of something which by Aboriginal activists, including many I still clearly remember,” she told At a dinner hosted by the department is ongoing today. The beginning of the South ,” he said. Aboriginal Way. of State Development, His Excellency not so radical notion that Aboriginal Governor Hieu Van Le also remembered the Honourable Hieu Van Le AC, Governor people are just like all people, they While politics was ‘fairly incomprehensible’ and celebrated the work of local activists of and The Honourable want to be visible not invisible and they to her as a child, she knew that her matter,” he said. for the referendum campaign. Kyam Maher, Minister for Aboriginal mother believed in the importance of the Affairs reflected on the significance Minister Maher said that the referendum “Many passionate and courageous changes to the constitution. of the vote in ’67. paved the way for a great deal of change Aboriginal people from South Australia “My mother would always say ‘we will Minister Maher said that the referendum in South Australia and Australia more or with strong connections to South be free people, we will be free come marked the beginning of a shift in the broadly. However, that change was Australia were active in the lead up the referendum’,” she said. nation’s thinking. sometimes frustratingly slow to occur. to the 1967 referendum. “I didn’t quite know what she meant until years and years later, in a sense we were free, we weren’t constrained by the flora and fauna act, we were now counted as humans in the census,” she said.

The second major change to the Constitution in ’67 was to give the Federal government power to make laws specifically for Aboriginal people. Dr Huggins believes this has had mixed benefits.

“With the right of the Commonwealth to override the states, one would think this would be a good idea, but it hasn’t turned out to be, for example in the Hindmarsh Island issue and the Racial Discrimination Act, the Commonwealth has acted to the detriment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people I think,” she said.

Overall, Dr Huggins believes that while there have been positive changes, there is still a long way to go.

“Much has changed, but much has gone at a very glacial pace. And in “The newly formed Aboriginal Women’s some areas its gone backwards. Council for example, was extremely We just need to look at , influential at this time. Led by Gladys where we’ve seen such bad outcomes. Elphick, the Council played an extremely The high rates of suicide, incarceration, important role lobbying for Aboriginal Aboriginal women are the fastest rights,” he said. growing population in our country.

Minister Maher spoke about the feeling “There’s been good and there’s been that was around following the resounding bad but still overwhelmingly bad when Yes vote at the 1967 referendum. 3% of the population, have such bad “Reflections of those who were there at problems and we cannot get this fixed. the time recall feelings of joy, as well as “Stakeholders and governments need to a euphoric atmosphere in communities. listen a lot more closely to Aboriginal and “It also realised the difficulty that change Torres Strait Islander people,” she said. would not come immediately. This was just the beginning of further struggle. At the 1967 Referendum Dinner in Many Aboriginal people faced the same , Governor Hieu Van Le also discrimination, the same racism, the acknowledged that there is still a great same inequality in education, health deal of work to be done in Aboriginal and employment. advancement.

“Although there was a feeling of optimism “Since 1967 we have seen a large range that the referendum would deliver of positive changes in the status of equality in the eyes of the broader rights recognition of Australian Aboriginal Australian community, it has taken people but we also know that there is time. And while that change didn’t come still a great deal of work to be done. quickly, the moment of the referendum gave us an unambiguous result. “The task of achieving all remaining “We are right to celebrate how far we to be done cannot rest on Aboriginal have come since the 67 referendum and people’s shoulders alone, it must we are right to celebrate the hard work be a project of the whole Australian of so many including those who are no community and society. That is true From top: The Governor at the 1967 Referendum Dinner; Mr Kyam Maher, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs; Dr Jackie Huggins at Reconciliation SA Breakfast. longer with us.” reconciliation,” he said.

Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 3 SA NAIDOC Awards celebrate local achievements South Australia has celebrated first fourteen years of her life at the as a role model for young Aboriginal as far as imprisonment of Aboriginal outstanding contributions by . She has been a strong women and was awarded the NAIDOC people, and trying to help in some small Aboriginal people in our community advocate for the Stolen Generation and SA Sportswoman of the Year Award. way and trying to get the boys to change at the SA NAIDOC Awards, held at the sharing her own personal journey. their lives,” she said. The Sportsman of the Year Award was Adelaide Town Hall on 3 July 2017. She is the author of the book Kick the presented to Anthony Wilson, who has Making change is not always easy From an Aunty and author who has spent Tin, which is widely used in schools and played football in the SANFL for Port Mrs Agius explained. her long life sharing her story of being universities. Doris Kartinyeri won the Adelaide and Norwood, and who spent “I have had men come up to me and say stolen from her family, to a young athlete Lifetime Achievement Award for 2017. one year playing in the AFL. Presenting they want to change, there’s still a lot of who played at an elite level from the his award, NAIDOC SA Chair Charlene Roxanne Dodd is a league soccer player hindrances out there, not being able to age of just 16, the awards remind us of Lamont said that Anthony showed who scored 19 goals last year. She get jobs, being disqualified from driver’s the diversity and contributions of South strength and resilience when he was has represented at state and national licence, because they don’t have any Australian Aboriginal people. racially vilified and that he is young level and first represented at league trades. So it’s really hard, we are behind person who demonstrates a never-give- Doris Kartinyeri is a woman level at the age of 16, showing maturity the eight ball as far as moving forward up attitude. who was stolen from her family at and strength beyond her years. She’s with that, so trying to fix those things just one month old. She spent the continuing to develop in her sport and After receiving his award, Mr Wilson said is a necessity,” Mrs Agius said. that he recognised the importance of sports Male Elder of the Year went to a face people contributing to their community. that is familiar to many due to his work “I guess being a sports person you’re in acting and on advertising campaigns, always looked up to and you see the likes including the Yidaki and the Quit campaign of Eddie Betts and and all – Stephen Gadlabarti Goldsmith. those people who stand up and do a lot Mr Goldsmith was recognised for his for their community. kind and open sharing of his cultural “I’m pretty lucky to be pretty close with knowledge and his work in reviving the Eddie and have learnt a lot from him, language. not only about footy but as a community Scholar of the Year was presented to person as well, he’s always giving back,” Professor James Ward, a researcher he said. and academic who is well known Mr Wilson also works as a Program Manager around the country for his strong with AIME, mentoring young people. stance in closing the gap and improving Aboriginal health outcomes. It’s really inspiring to see kids get out of their comfort zone and jump head first Artist of the Year is James Tylor, who into something they don’t know what practices in experimental photographic they are getting into, that’s what we’re practices. He uses a hybrid of analogue all about, getting kids out there and and digital photographic techniques to confident in their identity,” he said. create contemporary art works that are generating interest across the country. Female Elder of the Year Award was presented to Heather Agius. She Zancott Recruitment was recognised has worked tirelessly over the years as 2017 NAIDOC Business of the Year. advocating for her community. She The inaugural NAIDOC SA Caring for volunteers in a number of roles, including Country award was presented to a with ALRM and Corrections visiting and regional Landcare facilitator from supporting Aboriginal prisoners. the APY lands pastoral program – After her award was presented, Mrs Walter Tjami. Agius said that she does the work with Young person of the Year was awarded Aboriginal youth because she loves it. to Kyren Dixon, a polite and respectful “I work in Prisons part time, talking to the young man who has played football for lads. And I just love what I am doing, I’m Port Adelaide and completed a degree. helping in some way with the young lads The 2017 NAIDOC person of the who get into trouble. Year is Paul Vandenbergh, Director of “I’m just able to sleep at night. I’m able to Aboriginal Programs at Port Adelaide see what’s happening across the country Football Club.

Mr Frank Wanganeen was the recipient of the 2017 Premier’s NAIDOC Award.

He was recognised for his outstanding contribution to revival and reconciliation through cultural education.

Student Tayla Karpany was recipient of the inaugural Dr Alice Rigney Prize.

Other finalists were: Judith Lovegrove, Irene McKenzie, Chelsea Lieberwirth and Top to bottom: All recipients of 2017 SA NAIDOC Awards; Heather Agius, Anthonny Wilson and Winnie Warrior; All recipients of 2017 Premier’s NAIDOC Awards, Karen Glover. pictured with the Premier and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs.

4 Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 This page, from top left, clockwise: Tyrell Sinclair, Rhian Miller, Selina Miller, Anthony Wilson, Echo Soldier Wolf, AIME; NAIDOC SA Chair Ms Scharlene Lamont addresses crowd after NAIDOC March; NAIDOC family fun day; NAIDOC comes to the Mall; Students from Challa Gardens & Gilles Street Primary School, artists Jacob Logos and Taylor Power Smith, Ivan Copley and Lord Mayor Martin Haese at a new artwork unveiled at Reconciliation Plaza at Tarntanyangga/Victoria Square; (left to right) Simone Ulalka Tur, Natalie Harkin, Ivan-Tiwu Copley, Taylor Power-Smith, Katrina Ngaitlyala Power; Family at the SA NAIDOC March; Jeremy Bilney, Joan Bilney, Tilly Coulthard at NAIDOC March; 2017 SA NAIDOC March; 2017 SA NAIDOC March.

Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 5 Celebrating 25 years since the Mabo decision On 3 June 2017, Australians She recalled the moment when she heard commemorated 25 years since the the decision of the high court on the radio, Mabo High Court decision, which and realised what it meant. recognised that Indigenous people occupied the country before the “Most significantly, most astoundingly, the British arrived. legal doctrine of terra nullius, the way in which the British took our country, that then The historic legal victory overturned the is dead. Terra Nullius is a legal fiction.” concept of terra nullius and paved the way for the Native Title Act, which recognises In his speech, Jeff McMullin explored what the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait this country might look like if Eddie’s vision Islander people over their country. was fulfilled. He said that the hope that Mabo represents remains important. On Mer, or Murray Island, the place that was the subject of the Mabo case, one “So often we’ve had milestones, hope and hundred guests flew in to commemorate lots of rhetoric, but in my view that raising and celebrate the anniversary. of hope, the trust, is so quickly followed NITV news reported that Islander by political treachery,” he said. leaders came together to celebrate the “We need to go back to the hope that anniversary and to discuss a way forward Eddie Mabo instilled in others who went for Indigenous sovereignty. They called for with him on the journey. To build a hopeful a Public Holiday on Mabo Day each year vision that would include everyone and to mark its significance. overcome division and move us to true A major ceremony featured the eight clans greatness. Surely the next foundation stone of Murray Island and the Federal Minister in the building of a great society would be for Aboriginal Affairs lay a wreath and recognition of the most ancient sovereignty unveiled a renovated tombstone for Eddie that has existed here for time immemorial,” “Koiki” Mabo. Mr McMullin told the audience at the In Townsville, where Eddie Mabo lived for Mabo Dinner. much of his life, celebrations took place The Welcome to Country at that event with a Community in Unity event in the was presented by Professor Gracelyn suburb of Rasmussen. Smallwood, who later told Aboriginal Way The celebration featured traditional Islander that she recalled the days when she first dance and games, as well as food and met Eddie Koiki Mabo. cultural, art and information stalls. “I was a student at James Cook University In central Townsville, the Mabo family, led when Uncle Koiki Mabo was the gardener. by Gail Mabo, hosted a public event at I used to see him regularly watering the Jezzine Barracks on 3 June. With a blue sky plants, I heard that he was growing some and the backdrop of Townsville’s striking local traditional foods there. But then hills, Shane Howard (Goanna), John Butler, I would watch him go to the library. Rochelle Pitt + Big T, Neil Murray and I believe Uncle Koiki spent more time Deline Briscoe as well as traditional cultural in the library than I did. dancers entertained a large crowd. “Uncle Koiki Mabo was like an uncle to On the eve of June 3, the Mabo family hosted a Mabo formal dinner, which me. Uncle Koiki and his wife, Aunty Bonita, featured traditional Islander dancing they lived in such low socio economic and food as well as a performance by conditions, but they welcomed everyone Neil Murray. to their home, they always had stew and rice for them,” she said. The night featured addresses by Linda Burney MP, Australia’s first woman Federal At James Cook University, Eddie Mabo member of Parliament, and Journalist became a friend of historian Henry Jeff McMullin, a long-time supporter of Reynolds, who was known for his ground- Indigenous advancement. breaking work on the violence and conflict involved in the colonisation of Australia and Linda Burney told the audience that the Mabo decision was a momentous one who encouraged Eddie Mabo to take his for Australia. claim to court.

“It was not just a blip in 1992 of one “Professor Henry Reynolds and Dr Noel High Court decision. What this decision Lewis were very pro talking about did, it changed the face of this country. sovereignty and native title. I was It changed the face of land tenure in privileged to be a student of theirs,” Australia,” she said. Professor Smallwood said.

This page, left to right from top left: Milliana Davey and Rebecca Kaddy at Unity in Community event; Traditional Islander weaving demonstration at Community in Unity event; Uncle Gabez Tapan and Aicey Day; Emily Day and Lahana Zaro at Unity in Community; Families celebrate at Community in Unity. Opposite page, left to right from top left: Community in Unity celebration of Mabo Day; Gail Mabo at Mabo Day Celebrations in Townsville; Families at the Community in Unity event; Bonita Mabo speaks to NITV’s Karla Grant; Families at the Mabo Day Celebrations in Townsville; Families at the Mabo Day Celebrations in Townsville; Tony Mola, Tayiesha Tapim-Savage, Vicky Tapim at Community in Unity; Traditional Islander dancing at Mabo Day Celebrations; Mabo Day Celebrations at Jezzine Barracks in Townsville: Linda Burney MP addresses Mabo Dinner; Traditional Islander dancer, Mabo Dinner.

6 Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 7 Why families matter A new national campaign that aims of children, but also there is also the to eliminate the over-representation Aboriginal child rearing practices which of Aboriginal and Torres Strait needs to be recognised in the system we Islander children in out of home care work in,” Ms Clarke said. by 2040 was launched in the Rundle It is a core principle of the Family Matters Mall during Reconciliation Week. campaign that Aboriginal and Torres This year marks the 20th anniversary of Strait Islander people and organisations the ground-breaking Bringing Them Home participate in and have control over report. In 1997 Australia was shocked decisions that affect their children. to learn that 20% of children living in the “It’s critically important to work with child protection system were Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. Now, 20 years families and bring them to the table as a on, the number has increased and they part of the decision making. We do have are 35% of all children in the system. the solutions,” Ms Clarke said.

The Secretariat of National Aboriginal and The national campaign is also focussed Islander Child Care (SNAICC) says that on protecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait this is a national crisis that needs urgent Islander children’s right to live in culture. attention and have launched the Family “Sometimes children do need a Matters campaign with the support of place with non-Aboriginal carers or 150 strategic alliance groups nationally. in residential care. What we try to Leata Clarke, Chairperson of the Family encourage is to keep a cultural plan, Matters campaign in South Australia, so they have opportunities to connect told Lisa Burns from SA Council of Social with family and keep their culture going Services that the reasons for the removal and have that sense of belonging and of children are complex. connectedness,” Ms Clarke said.

“Poverty is a big factor with children “That’s why it’s critical that when children being taken away from family, also we do do go with non-Aboriginal carers, which have that intergenerational trauma that are very loving and supportive, we want has a big impact on families they haven’t to ensure they have an opportunity to been able to have the knowledge and learn songs, to learn dance, to learn understanding in regards to the raising language, so they can keep that going.”

There can be real impacts on the child if children in care, the campaign has this does not happen Ms Clarke explained. established several other targets along the way. “If they are not being cared for and maintaining that culture they are They include ensuring that Aboriginal and confused and not understanding why Torres Strait Islander children their skin might be different and why enjoy equal access to early intervention they might talk different. And when they and prevention services and equal do go back to family when they become rates of reunification with their families. 18 they don’t quite fit in there either, so The campaign also wants to see the they’ve got to walk in two worlds and that elimination of the over-representation can sometimes be very confusing and of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander confronting for children.” children in notification of child abuse or neglect and being subject to a That cultural and personal connection removal order. needs to be with the child’s own nation and language group, she said. The campaign is currently in its first phase – raising awareness and “Because as you know Australia is collecting support. Leata Clark says made up of a number of nations and that contributions from across the even in South Australia there’s quite a community are needed to make the range of different language groups and necessary changes. nations. There is a big diversity within the Aboriginal culture as well. So it’s “We are in the first phase now, to capture identifying which clan group they do people’s awareness and to build that come from and keeping that strong,” base to create change. We need at Ms Clarke said. people movement to do that,” she said.

While the long term goal of the campaign If you would like to know more about is to eliminate the over-representation the Family Matters campaign, head Photos: Dusty Feet Mob, Kalaya Children’s Choir and Yellaka perform at the launch of the Family Matters campaign in Rundle Mall. of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander to www.familymatters.org.au

8 Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 Treaty consultations continue in SA South Australian Aboriginal people are overwhelmingly in support of state-based Treaty, with the majority wanting Treaty to be made between multiple Aboriginal nations and the Government, rather than one Treaty across the entire population.

That’s the findings of the first phase of South Australian Treaty discussions with Aboriginal people.

Dr Roger Thomas was appointed Treaty Commissioner by the Premier in February 2017 and his office has since commenced a consultation process with Aboriginal people.

In the first phase of the consultation, the Commission put two initial questions to Aboriginal South Australians.

The first question is:Do you want a treaty? The second question is: Should your group. What do you see as the This issue is central because of a “The challenging part of it is that South there be a single Treaty for all Aboriginal governance? Who should sign a Treaty? commitment to principles of self- Australia is a relatively big state and South Australians, or multiple Treaties How do you see that working? Who do determination, to ensure that any so is the Aboriginal community. Its with different groups? you see as being the members of your representative group had authority widespread, it’s diverse, and it’s got group to be in that Treaty? What are the to speak for the people it represents many layers of different Aboriginal The response to the first question has criteria that you believe should be put and to negotiate a Treaty for people been overwhelming, Commissioner heritage and culture across it. My job in for all Aboriginal parties to get to the it represents. Thomas told Radio Adelaide. terms of facilitating that conversation table to be able to negotiate a Treaty The question of which Aboriginal people is challenging because the ultimate “The response was overwhelmingly if ever that happens’.” might be included as parties to any objective is to as much as possible to get strong – in the 85–90% range saying This second phase involves the to as many groups, as many individuals, ‘Yes, we do want a treaty’.” Treaty was discussed. Issues such Commissioner travelling across the as place of birth, length of residence as many groups as I possibly can within The second question had a less over- state and meeting with groups in person. in South Australia and connection to the timeframe.” whelming response, but it is still clear All native title holder groups were invited to South Australian Aboriginal nations that more people want local Treaties, Commissioner Thomas acknowledged send a representative to a second Treaty were considered. Commissioner Thomas explained. the difficulty of the original timeframe for meeting in Port Augusta on 27 June. Further discussion took place on the his report when he spoke to Aboriginal “Whilst there were stronger views leaning At that meeting, Commissioner Thomas relationship between this state-based Way shortly after his appointment. That towards local treaty, nevertheless there told the group that over five hundred Treaty and any federal Treaty, given timeframe has now been amended by the was still relatively a strong view that conversations about Treaty in South recent developments in constitutional Minister for Aboriginal Affairs he said. indicated some saw it better to have Australia had taken place. Those were reform and Makarrata. Commissioner one Treaty for all South Australia.” The final report of the Commission for held face-to-face at over 45 meetings. Thomas stated that a state-based Treaty on Aboriginal people’s thoughts Commissioner Thomas spoke to The commission had received over Treaty can only strengthen the position Radio Adelaide the week of the Uluru two hundred written submissions from of South Australian Aboriginal people on Treaty will be with the Minister by Convention. Asked if talks about individuals and groups and had seen in a federal discussion. 21 July 2017. constitutional reform and treaty at a over 2,000 visits to the website. Commissioner Thomas told The next step towards Treaty in federal level have an impact on the Radio South Australia is for enabling discussions currently underway in At the meeting with native title groups, Adelaide that the consultation had been legislation to be passed in Parliament South Australia, Commissioner Thomas Commissioner Thomas canvassed a complex one but he was determined said that those talks operated in a the issue of eligibility to represent the to hear from many Aboriginal South and the wider community to be involved separate sphere. Aboriginal parties to any Treaty. Australians as possible. in a conversation.

“Clearly the SA Government is limited by the limited powers of the South Australian constitution and the Federal Reconciliation celebrated in the West Government has the powers of the Federal Constitution,” he said. At the annual Reconciliation in the West event, held at Tauondi “So that doesn’t get in the road of what Aboriginal College in May, we’re doing here in the state level. That Reconciliation SA Board member agenda is going ahead because that’s Ivan-Tiwu Copley told the crowd to do with the Federal Constitution.” that true reconciliation is about The consultation is now in its second Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal phase, which involves the Treaty Australians coming together to build Commissioner’s office meeting with understanding and relationships. groups of Aboriginal people across the He presented this flag design created state to discuss more detailed questions by an 11 year old, Milla Lokhorst, who about a possible framework for Treaty. did the drawing for Reconciliation week at her school. The design shows the At those meetings, the Treaty Australian and Aboriginal flags together, Commissioner will be offering some with black and white hands reaching more detailed questions for discussion in partnership and the words “We can said Mr Thomas. reflect” and “We can say sorry”. “Which is ‘what do you see are the Mr Copley noted that acknowledging and important benefits which might reflecting on the past is a central part of come from a treaty – for you, for the Reconciliation process and that Milla’s your community, for your nation, for design demonstrated this concept beautifully.

Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 9 Native title groups meet in Townsville Over 880 delegates met in governance and developing economic Townsville, on the traditional lands and commercial opportunities, new of the Gurambilbarra Wulgurukaba advances in cultural heritage and people, from 5–7 June for the 2017 ethical research partnerships. National Native Title Conference. The annual Mabo lecture, which has been The annual conference explores the held in memory of Eddie Koiki Mabo and challenges and opportunities of native the High Court decision since 2001, was title in the broader context of Aboriginal presented by Dr June Oscar AO. Dr Oscar and Torres Strait Islander aspirations for is a proud Bunuba woman from the town their lands, waters and communities. of Fitzroy Crossing in WA and is now Australian Institute of Aboriginal and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS), Social Justice Commissioner with the one of the convenors of the conference, Australian Human Rights Commission. reported that the event included The conference’s focus on youth 75 presentations and 150 speakers, was significantly developed this year, with over half of those delegates including a strong key note address by being Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Murrawah Johnson and a more extensive Islander people. youth forum.

The first day, designed for Prescribed The conference was fortunate to Bodies Corporate and native title hear from leaders at the Referendum representative bodies only, made time for Council regional dialogue process. dialogue and knowledge sharing, and to Dr Meagan Davis, Pat Anderson and Noel cater for various areas of interest in the Pearson presented a comprehensive native title sector, including of strategic report on the 12 Regional Dialogues importance and coordination. and Uluru Convention. They shared the SA Native Title Services Legal Officer Since that time, the Corporation has looked Public session sessions on later days perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Michelle Cioffi, told the story of the to self-determination, exploring business included keynote speeches, dialogue Strait Islander people as expressed De Rose Hill people, who have had a opportunities to ensure the corporation’s forums, Indigenous Talking Circles, at those meetings and read the Uluru hard-fought journey to native title, from longevity, as well as ways to preserve country topical and technical workshops Statement from the Heart. They registration of their claim in 1994, to a and culture for the enjoyment of present and papers presented by native title explained the political process going consent determination in 2005 and the and future generations. Ms Cioffi spoke holders, claimants and practitioners. forward for further discussions on consequent landmark compensation about how SA Native Title Services has Talk focussed on issues including PBC constitutional reform. claim almost ten years later. worked alongside De Rose in these goals.

This page, left to right from top left: Dr June Oscar delivers the 2017 Mabo Address; Traditional dancers welcome delegates to the Native Title Conference; Dodie Eggmotesse from 4KIG 107.1FM; Michelle Cioffi, SA Native Title Services presents at the Native Title Conference; Murrawah Johnson; Outgoing Chair AIATIS Mick Dodson. Opposite page, top: Traditional dancers welcome delegates to the Native Title Conference.

10 Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 Recent changes in Commonwealth support for PBCs Prescribed Bodies Corporate (PBCs) managers. This will ensure they are greater engagement with PBCs and sources, Mr Roche explained to the need to become self-sufficient land well-placed to take advantage of moving to a regional emphasis for the Conference. They are the Indigenous managers and that has required commercial opportunities that can delivery of PBC support. Advancement Strategy – Community Led changes to the way that they receive support wealth creation and ultimately Mr Roche pointed out that Native Title Grants, PBC capacity building funding support, according to the Department economic independence. Representative Bodies (‘Rep Bodies’), and the Indigenous Entrepreneurs Fund. of Prime Minister and Cabinet. Mr Roche also told the Native Title like SA Native Title Services, remain Each funding source had different criteria Mr Greg Roche, Special Adviser, Housing Conference that PBCs deal with a high crucial partners in providing information and priorities. Mr Roche emphasised to Land and Culture in the Department of number of disputes. and training to PBCs. He also said that the audience at the conference that there the Prime Minister & Cabinet (PM&C) more broadly Rep Bodies would continue was not a cap to the amount of funding “ORIC tells us that PBCs are almost addressed the National Native Title to work with PBCs. PBCs could receive each year, as long as three times more likely to be subject of Conference in Canberra with an update “Self-sufficiency does not mean self- they met relevant criteria. on Commonwealth support for PBCs. a complaint than all other Indigenous reliance,” he said. corporations combined,” he said. SA Native Title Services (SANTS) has As native title claims across Australia are “PBCs can continue to receive services provided feedback to the Federal determined, there is a growing number of “Those disputes often go back to from a range of providers, including Rep Government on the developments PBCs across the country established to the imperfect process that led to the Bodies on an ongoing basis, but we see manage the associated native title rights. determination. We have a systemic in PBC funding. problem that needs to be addressed. PBCs as being in control of the level of SANTS CEO Keith Thomas said that Mr Roche reported that there are 169 Those disputes usually related to who services and how they are provided.” PBCs across Australia currently, with the proposed change in policy by is and who is not a native title holder. The Government is proposing a that number increasing. He said that half PM&C represents significant challenges Those relate back to the rush, the transition model for PBCs to move to of those have no income or assets, three for PBCs. pressure that everybody is on to reach self-sufficiency. The model recognises quarters no employees, the majority determination,” he said. capacities within PBCs in a range “SANTS will work with PBCs to look at have no office. In November 2016, the Department of of areas, for example rule book what their development needs are and Mr Roche said that this resourcing the Prime Minister and Cabinet consulted management, negotiation, dispute how SANTS can best assist those PBCs shortfall meant that many PBCs don’t resolution, and aims to provide support native title stakeholders on the support to implement their development plans. have the capacity to use their native to match the level of capacity. needs for PBCs. From the responses, the title rights should they wish to. “SANTS will monitor progress and Government identified priority areas for This plan for PBC funding sees continue to provide ongoing support and “They find it hard to access resources support and a pathway for PBCs to move organisations move from ‘Incubation’, advice to PBCs,” he said. that are needed to build their capacity to self-sufficiency. where PBCs rely on external support, and plan for their long term operation,” and need assistance for operations, Mr Roche told the conference that that As the Native Title Service Provider he said. to Transition and onto Self Sufficiency, those priorities are to improve PBCs’ for South Australia, SANTS continues where PBCs are in the driving seat, but He said that the government’s objective access to information, training and to support PBCs in all aspects of their may still choose to use service providers. is to build the long term capacity of expertise, to minimise disputation and operations, including applying to the PBCs to become self-sufficient land facilitating the resolution of disputes, Funding for PBCs now comes from three Federal Government for support. PBC National Representation The National Native Title Council Glen Kelly, Chief Executive Officer of The structure of the Board of the NNTC (NNTC) is looking to broaden its role the NNTC presented information about has also changed, there will be four Directors from each member class and change its structure so that the new structure, how organisations there had not been further consultation selected at the AGM. Traditional Owner Corporations (TOCs) can become members and the benefits on the new structure. Others said that and Prescribed Bodies Corporate membership can provide at the National However, Mr Kelly explained that the they had hoped for a new structure that (PBCs) can be included in the national Native Title Conference in Townsville. Council remains the agenda setting, included state based representation. voice for native title issues. policy and strategy decision making Expressions of interest for membership He explained that the NNTC has created body of the NNTC. The Council itself of the NNTC for PBCs and TOCs are now The NNTC is the peak body for Native a new member class called Local Native is made up of one delegate from each Title Service providers. Since its member organisation, with other people open – application forms were handed Title Organisations for PBCs and TOCs. inception in 2007, it has become a strong from member organisations allowed to out at the conference and are available on request from the NNTC. representative for native title concerns Service Providers will now be in a contribute to open discussions. among governments and industry on separate member class called Regional Some of those present at the Visit website for further information issues of national significance and reform. Native Title Organisations. presentation expressed concern that at www.nntc.com.au

Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 11 Sorry Day 20 years after the Bringing Them Home report South Australians gathered at recommendations of the original Bringing Victoria Square on Friday 28 May to Them Home report has made matters mark National Sorry Day, an event worse for all . which marks the release of the “Our haven’t been Bringing Them Home Report on the Stolen Generations in 1997. able to heal because Australia has failed to address their needs in a co-ordinated, The event featured speeches by holistic way,” he said. representatives from the Adelaide City Council and South Australian “As a result, their grief, loss and anger government, who acknowledged the is being passed onto their kids and trauma and journey to healing of the grandkids,” said Professor Larkin. Stolen Generations. The Healing Foundation called for Community groups hosted stalls with several actions by Governments: information, food and activities for the • Federally coordinated financial many school children who attended to reparations similar to the learn about this part of Australia’s history. Commonwealth Redress Scheme In Canberra, the Healing Foundation provided to survivors of child marked the day with the launch of a new sexual abuse; report Bringing them Home 20 Years On. The report was presented to the Prime • A full analysis of the Stolen Generations Minister and Opposition Leader in changing needs as they age; Parliament House. • A national study on intergenerational The report found that Australia’s aging trauma, its impacts, and the best way Stolen Generations are still struggling to address those; with the impacts of unresolved trauma, • Ensuring all professionals who and need a new policy approach to assist work with the Stolen Generations them and their families to heal. and their descendants are trained Healing Foundation Board Chair Steve in recognising and addressing Larkin said the failure to implement the Indigenous trauma.

Left to right from top left: Carolyanha Johnson & Nathan Rigney, Quitline Cancer SA; Mandy Brown, Stolen Generations Survivor addresses Sorry Day event; Art project at Nunkawarrin Yunti; Lynette Croker, Sorry Day Committee Member; Brad Hart & Kesha Roesch from Nunkawarrin Yunti at Sorry Day; Badge making at Sorry Day; Eddie Peters performs for Sorry Day.

12 Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 60 years since Palm Island Strike

Above: Dulcie Isaro (left) and supporter at the National Native Title Conference.

In a year of anniversaries, the tourists did come to Palm Island, and we Because I’m thinking what’s going to Mrs Isaro has always been determined anniversary of one significant had to dance for them to welcome them happen?” she said. that the history of Palm Island be protest that was hidden for many and present a friendly Island, to welcome remembered, by residents and the While the whole population of the Island years was commemorated in North people and carry them to shore if the tide broader community. went on strike initially, many people Queensland recently. was right out, they’d carry the tourists on the boats into the shore,” she said. decided to back down because of fear. “Well at the time they hushed it up and Palm Island is located on the Great Barrier just wanted to silence the men, so it went “The whole island went on strike, then Reef about 60 km north of Townsville. “They had to do that because otherwise like a hidden and forgotten history, even they’d go to jail. Jail was the main place after a while the superintendent sent for In 1957 all residents went on strike the people on Palms sort of forgot there people would go as soon as they said no the police and between twenty and forty against the autocratic management of the was a strike and their faith mainly was to anything. The jail was the answer to policemen came over to check it out. settlement. The strike was only resolved in the government that was giving them everything. The Superintendent was the It was a non-violent strike. when seven defiant men and their families referendum, they believed, that was ten judge, jury, all in one. We had no rights were removed from the Island and sent to “But they came over and the people, years after the strike, they seemed to at all,” she said. live elsewhere permanently. having lived under those conditions of fear, have forgotten about the strike Mrs Isaro said that the fear that the started to get afraid when they saw the Dulcie Isaro was a 15-year-old living “So when I went back after 40 years and residents felt on standing up for their policemen and many backed off. And they on the Island when the strike took place. I asked them about that they didn’t know rights at the strike was very real and came and said to the main leaders – look Her father, Willy Thaiday, was one of the anything about it. I called it forgotten was created by their long-term treatment we’re going to leave you because we’ve seven men who remained defiant against on the island. history and from that time 40 years, got to think of our families. So one of the authorities to the end. then 50 years, now 60 years, I’ve fought “Well after being treated like slaves, you all them said ‘that’s fine brothers if you want for those people to know this was their She says that the strike happened know what slaves are like, what they can to leave the strike, go to the other side history and to be proud of it,” she said. because of the terrible living conditions and cannot do, the fear that they have. We of the island’,” said Mrs Isaro. on the Island. were exactly the same way when our men “They might have been hush hushed, The majority of Island residents went to got up,” Mrs Isaro told Aboriginal Way. you know. They were not like the people “Well the living conditions for one, the pay, the other side of the island, leaving the that struck in Canberra, they had the they got tobacco for wages, the girls were “I mean slaves are not treated too good strike, but a small group remained. in dormitories, they used to place the young you know, and we were born into that media, the world media on them. Our girls in dormitories, if they were punished protection life. Born into slavery, our “Alby Gaia said ‘which way brothers, fathers had zero. Absolutely no contact, they had to wear sack bag dresses and education limit was four, grade four. And what are we doing to do?’ because they no support. But that didn’t stop them. sweep the main street as punishment for the work was already planned for us, we’d had no supporters now and my father They had the courage, they were so, so running away from the dormitory. have to be house maids for anybody that said ‘We go for broke!’ and they all mighty for doing it. They knew they’d be wanted people to work for them. That was shouted ‘Go for broke!’” hushed up, but they went ahead anyway.” “If they were punished, they were given our limit in that life,” Mrs Isaro said. Mrs Isaro said. beans to crack in the hot sun. There were The strike was only resolved when the so many different things they punished Sixty years later she still recalls the day remaining seven strikers and their families Each year on 9 June, the Palm Island us and nobody in Australia knew that of the Palm Island strike. were taken away from the Island with community remember their history and was going on, I suppose apart from the “I remember the day, I followed a lady by Mrs Issaro’s family taken inland to celebrate the bravery of the strikers. Government officers I think, nobody else central Queensland. the name of Rose Conlgu, I followed her “We’re going back to Palm Island to knew that was going on,” she said. around and wherever the men went, I was “We were sent to Woorabinda, a settlement celebrate for three days what happened there,” she told Aboriginal Way. “Back in the 50s, from the time they in the valley of the Great Dividing Range, on Palms, the strike, a beautiful arrived there to the 50s, it was very bad. “I tell you, the fear that I felt. I was sick beautiful little spot, but totally different celebration, dancers and all kinds of We were forced to do a lot of things, like in the stomach, shaking like a leaf. from Palm Island,” she said. stuff to celebrate,” said Mrs Isaro.

Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 13 Jack Buckskin on why our languages matter Speaking language is an important way to reconnect with elders past and present, find pride in your culture and teach your children their heritage says Kaurna language teacher Jack Buckskin.

He addressed the Reconciliation in the North Morning Tea during Reconciliation Week and afterwards spoke to Aboriginal Way about learning and teaching Kaurna, the traditional language of the Adelaide Plains.

When he was growing up, Mr Buckskin was not even aware of the language he was speaking.

“I knew Aboriginal English, but I didn’t realise what languages I was speaking. Not until I got involved with learning Kaurna specifically that I realised that the words I knew weren’t Kaurna so I went to research where the words I knew as a kid fit into the picture. Then I started realising that within one sentence I knew five different Aboriginal languages.

“That made me want to go and learn more Kaurna because I was like learn one language fluently, the rest are a bonus, but then eventually I can move in to learning them as well and try to learn Above: Jack Buckskin addressing the Reconcilliation in the North Morning Tea during Reconcilliation Week. as many different Aboriginal languages as I can,” he said. “Some people would go to a class “Now up in Tea Tree Gully is known “So now we’re just getting the word and think okay that’s where I do my Mr Buckskin’s interest in learning as wirra which is the forest country, out that that’s what they want to do, learning. But that’s where I saw it as Kaurna grew from his involvement in and if you look around there’s trees teach about language and culture, the opportunity to ask questions, but at traditional dancing. everywhere, and this country goes all the that’s possible. home is where I did my own learning way out to Gawler and then crosses the “A lot of the traditional songs are sung “That’s a massive empowering tool for “I really wanted to learn. It was a passion, border into the people’s land, so in language and the Elders, uncles that an Aboriginal youth,” Mr Buckskin said. that I wanted to learn as much as I could it talks about relationship, just by the one got me involved and cousins, didn’t really as quickly as I could, so I spent as much He is also teaching Kaurna to his own know too much language. name talks about relationships with other time on it as I could,” Mr Buckskin said. Aboriginal groups as well,” he said. children, the hardest students he’s “The whole idea was to go and learn had so far. Mr Buckskin says that learning the language and then incorporate it into the Mr Buckskin is now a well-known Kaurna language taught him about Kaurna dances and I guess reinvigorating those language teacher himself. He moved “The way to create first language culture in new ways. cultural dances. So the goal at first was from teaching Kaurna directly to teaching speakers is to speak it to them from to learn enough so we could incorporate “The language can tell you things that language teachers at Tauondi College in birth. So I spoke to my daughter it into dance, and then it just started we take for granted. Sometimes we get Port Adelaide. from a young age so she is hearing growing,” he said. told the meanings and we think that’s the it, understanding it, and then as she’s truth, but language itself can tell you a “Well I spent five years teaching a lot of started getting older she’s understanding Mr Buckskin learnt the core parts the little bit more. non-Aboriginal teachers and I probably language from Karna language expert it but she still responds in English. had two Aboriginal students in that time, and University of Adelaide professor “There’s multiple layers to everything so I’ve stopped teaching to adults, now “I guess that’s a bit of a challenge Rob Amery. in our culture, like spirituality, there’s because in our household mum speaks layers within our communities, within our training the next generation of language “I learnt from Rob Amery from Adelaide English and everyone else speaks environments so it’s about understanding teachers,” he said. Uni, he’s our main teacher of language, English, and the only person that speaks those layers and breaking it all down,” so I’d go to class once a week and he’d The place of Kaurna language teaching in language is me. he said. teach us all of the patterns,” he said. is slowly becoming established, “So it’s been a challenge, but now I’ve “For example, there’s language written Mr Buckskin says. But it was his own keen interest and all over country. You know the Salisbury got two more boys, and because we life experience that really taught him to area the area is known as murlayaki “Slowly now we’ve got accreditations, used more language with them, she’s speak Kaurna. which is the dry valley, and if you look certificates in place, career development. using more language too because it’s a “I guess you could say it was the from where we are and you go down the When I started the linguist said you’ll communication tool between me and all linguist who got me on the right track hill it’s the dry valley, it goes down and never get a job in it, now we have career of the kids, and sometimes my partner and then it was just self-taught at home. back up as you go out. pathways for kids. too now,” he said. Native Title Act amended to enable existing ILUAs Federal Parliament has passed and every member of the applicant unanimously supported the amendments, the amendments ensured that no amendments to the Native Title group to execute Indigenous Land Use in order to ensure the many Indigenous individual had the “right of veto over Act that were proposed by the Agreements. That would be regardless Land Use Agreements (ILUAs) threatened community decisions’’. Government and ultimately of individual applicants being deceased by the McGlade judgment remain valid. CEO of SA Native Title Services supported by the Opposition. or refusing to execute for any reason. The National Native Title Council Keith Thomas said that the amendments The amendments were proposed in Native title service providers, including welcomed the passage of the returned certainty to a number of response to the Federal Court decision SA Native Title Services, representative amendments, with Chief Executive agreements in South Australia and of McGlade. That decision required each bodies and land councils around Australia Glen Kelly telling The Australian that were welcomed.

14 Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 Update on Native Title Vale Yami Lester OAM Indigenous activist Yami Lester has Yami made it his life’s work to campaign claims in South Australia passed away in Alice Springs at locally, nationally and internationally for the age of 75. Yami was blinded by the clean-up of Maralinga following the SA Native Title Services (SANTS) nuclear testing in outback Australia Nuclear Atomic Bomb testing by the continues to work with native and spent decades as a nuclear title holders and claimants, British in the 1950s and 60s, for a and land rights campaigner. their representatives and other Royal Commission and for compensation stakeholders to resolve native title His family have released the following for destruction and contamination claims currently before the Courts. statement: of country and the dispossession of There are currently twenty three Anangu. It was hard work rewarded Yami Lester OAM native title applications being dealt with the extensive remediation of country 24 August 1941 to 21 July 2017 with in South Australia. as well as financial compensation for One longstanding native title claim now It is with great sadness that the family peoples. has a trial date set while three others of Yami Lester announce the passing of For several decades, supported by appear to be headed for determinations Yami Lester (Poppa Yami), Yankunytjatjara his children, he continued a relentless in September or October this year. leader and Elder, Land Rights and anti- campaign against nuclear weapons Work continues on the Wirangu No.2 The Kaurna People’s Native Title Claim, nuclear campaigner on 21 July 2017, claim over an area on the west coast of as well as plans for a nuclear waste which covers an area from the tip of the age 75. the Eyre Peninsula. The State of South dump in South Australia. Earlier this Fleurieu Peninsula and north to Redhill, Australia is currently assessing the Native Yami was born in the early 1940s at year he welcomed the decision by the is scheduled for trial commencing in Title Report provided by the Applicant. Walkinytjanu Creek (Wal-kin-jahnu) an Australian Government to offer a Gold April 2018. outstation on Granite Downs Station The Nation’s claim is over the Card for health care for those affected The Ngarrindjeri and Others Native Title area covering the Yorke Peninsula. The in the far north of South Australia. by radiation fallout at Maralinga but Claim, which covers an area around Native Title Report for this claim is now When the atomic bomb went off at reminded us it was too little too late. the River Murray, Lakes and Coorong completed and has been provided to the Emu Field (the first test on the mainland), region, is now working towards a consent State Government for assessment. Yami was a staunch land rights Yami was about ten years of age and determination in September 2017. campaigner active in the handback The Nauo No.2 claim has been through life would re-tell with clarity and of Anangu (APY Lands) The Dieri No.3 Claim, which covers amended and is undergoing the sadness of his family being blanketed in far north South Australia to the area along the Eastern coast of registration test, with work on a in the toxic fallout and the sickness Lake Eyre, is in case management, Native Title Report underway. traditional owners as inalienable and death that followed. with a determination expected in freehold title, as well as the The Tjayiwara Unmuru people’s September 2017. As a stockman and skilled horseman, compensation claim is in the far north monumental return of Uluru and Kata Yami spent his early years working Work continues on overlapping claims of South Australia on the border with the Tjuta to traditional owners in 1985. on pastoral properties across South by the Peoples (Area C Northern Territory. The matter remains Australia until losing his eyesight as a He retired to his traditional lands at & F), Wilyakali No.2 and Ngadjuri Nation, in mediation with fruitful discussions Walatina Station near Marla in the located in the Flinders region, near the underway to resolve the matter. teenager and later becoming completely blind – the consequence of dust from the State’s far north, which will be his final NSW border. Applicants are hopeful Some active claims have been adjourned resting place. of a determination in October 2017. until the next callover, the hearing when nuclear bomb. the courts assess and prioritise all native Two new claims are currently being Yami’s story is depicted in the National title claims before them. considered and prepared in South Yami was a staunch Portrait Gallery. In 1981 he received Australia and look to cross into That includes the Malyankapa Peoples land rights campaigner an OAM for his service in the field of other states. claim, which is for the area on the Aboriginal Welfare and has a published border with New South Wales from the active in the handback autobiography. His warmth, kindness, Community members have authorised boundary of the claim up to Wilyakali generosity and resolve inspired so many a claim for an area in the South East. the Queensland border. of Anangu Pitjantjatjara Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people SANTS has been assisting the (APY Lands) in far north The Ngadjuri No.2 and Wilyakali matters and as Tjamu (grandfather) and Katja Yandruwandha people, are also both adjourned until the next South Australia to (Great grandfather) he will be forever who hold native title rights over an area in callover. Walka Wani Oodnadatta and remembered by his loved ones, his the North East corner of South Australia, Arabana No.2 are recent claims that traditional owners as with the preparation of a further claim in are expected to progress by the inalienable freehold extended family, community and by Queensland and NSW. next callover. so many. title, as well as the Some current claims have reached No.3, and Barngarla Yami leaves an incredible legacy important stages in their processing, (Port Augusta overlap area) have also monumental return of of better global understanding of the with matters before the Court impacting been adjourned to next callover. The Uluru and Kata Tjuta devastation of nuclear bombs and for Nukunu matter is also progressing along on their progress. the ongoing battle for recognition of well and the applicants are hopeful of a to traditional owners the consequence of them on the rights Strike out applications have been filed consent determination in the future. in 1985. in the Far West Coast Sea claim, with and interests of Anangu. the hearings taking place in the Federal For full details of all Native Title Applications and Determinations, Memories of the man and his contribution Court on 3 July. He was a member of the Aboriginal including access to detailed maps will remain forever in the hearts of so Advancement League, was drawn to An appeal to the decision in the Lake – head to the Native Title Tribunal many people, especially Bronya, Lucy social work assisting families in need Torrens case is waiting on judgement website – www.ntt.gov.au and search and his children Leroy, Rosemary and from the Full Federal Court. the Registers and Applications with health and education during work with the United Mission and Karina who have followed in his footsteps was instrumental, together with the as interpreters and protectors of country late Reverend Jim Downing, in the and his twelve grandchildren (Lionel, establishment of the Institute for Lachlan, Tahlia, Kieran, Kiah Robbie, Aboriginal Development in Alice Springs Carlin, Leesha, Jessica, Joshua, William and the Pitjantjatjara Land Council. and Larissa and two great grandchildren (Lucy-May and Levi). Rest in Peace Dad As a professional interpreter and and poppa. cultural broker he worked in the law courts making sure the voice of Anangu Yami passed away peacefully in was understood. Alice Springs.

Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 15 Meet the SA Native Title Services Board SA Native Title Services (SANTS) is a academy focuses on academic learning, Other experiences include: Director Lavene has been involved in native title public company limited by guarantee achievement and acceleration through of Active Bobcats, Rio Tinto Supervisor/ as a community member and observer, and governed by a Board of Directors sports, which he takes great pride in. Trainer for ATAL (Aboriginal Training attending meetings and native title which oversees the strategic direction He is a valued part of his School and very & Liaison), Jackeroo, Mechanic, Hotel hearings for the Adnyamathanha people. of the company. The majority of Board well respected by the staff, students and management, retail, telecom lineman, She continues to contribute to the positions on the SANTS Board are local community. station overseer, plant operator and native title process for her people and designated for Aboriginal people. Our demolition. These positions have all native title groups of SA through her As a leader in his community Damien Board members bring a range of skills been held in farming, hotel, automotive, involvement on the SANTS Board. takes on many positions and roles to and experiences to their role directing telecommunication, mining and civil empower youth and his peers, one of Lavene believes we need to learn from the organisation. construction industries. which includes being Captain of his our Elders and think of new ways to build April Lawrie – football team, Port Districts. His love for Lavene Aboriginal Nations. This means to provide Chairperson health and wellbeing also inspired him Ngatokorua – people with better options to learn and to take on a part time role as a personal Director take on business opportunities; to listen to April heralds trainer at Pushing Performance. people about their needs and aspirations. from the Lavene is Youth Lavene feels strongly about engagement and Kokatha Damien’s role for local native food and Children’s and capacity development for all people of the business Warndu incorporates direct Coordinator at Aboriginal communities in South Australia far west coast, with many family and relationship building with communities Davenport Community and CEO of that and assisting PBCs (native title corporate relatives living in Ceduna. and wild harvesters. This is a hugely community. She is a , bodies) with their future endeavours. important role for the company as it is its Adnyamathanha, , Luritja woman For many years, April was involved in core goal to build long term relationships from Davenport; an Aboriginal community Allan Hunter – supporting her Mirning people with with communities around Australia. located 300km north of Adelaide. Director pursuing land rights for the Nullarbor region, where the Mirning now co-manage Paul Case – The Davenport community was known Allan was the Nullarbor parks. April has also been Treasurer as Davenport Reserve before it formed admitted as a involved in native title processes and its own Aboriginal community council in solicitor in South Paul is a governance on the state’s Far West 1973. Lavene took on the demanding Australia in Chartered Coast. After gaining confirmation of their voluntary role of CEO after the community 1971. Until 1998 he practised in private Accountant native title rights in 2013, the Far West lost Government funding in 2014. practice in SA principally in litigation and with over 20 Coast Aboriginal Corporation is now a years’ commercial experience and is Regional Authority for South Australia. a Registered Company Auditor. Since April studied Social Work and has joining MLCS Corporate in 1995 as originally worked in Aboriginal foster care Director of the company Paul’s expertise Clinton Pryor welcomed in Adelaide on his walk for justice and later in a range of South Australian has developed with a major focus on After seven months of walking government agencies on Aboriginal business planning, strategic planning to seek justice for First Nations issues across urban, rural and remote and development strategies to create people, campaigner Clinton Pryor communities. Her current role is as wealth for his clients. was greeted by a large crowd of Director of Aboriginal Education in the His industry experience covers the supporters and a police escort as Department for Education and Child retail, tourism and mining sectors and he arrived in Adelaide and walked Development. She has devoted her in particular he has developed a niche through Victoria Square. time and skills over the last 25 years to offering to Native Title Claimants in Aboriginal issues across government Clinton Pryor is a Noongar, Yamatji, East exploring commercial opportunities and at the community level, in particular Kimberley and Pilbara man walking from associated with agreements. contributing to the formation of Aboriginal to Parliament seeking audience policy at the state and national level. John Briggs – with the Prime Minister and encouraging the community to stand up for justice. April has been on the Board of Secretary Directors for the Bullinda ‘Lawrie’ John is a proud On Monday 24 April, Mr Pryor’s Adelaide “I got involved with the First Nations family homeland, the Far West Coast Aboriginal man supporters came together to celebrate people in 2012 and Clinton came to Aboriginal Corporation, Far West Coast who identifies his arrival and walk alongside him on Heirisson Island later, and I got to know Investment Pty Ltd, Far West Mining with the Yorta Kaurna Country, from Gepps Cross him well down there. He always had that and Civil Company. She also served as Yorta People from Cummrugunja (our through to Tarndanyangga. drive in him,” he said. an inaugural delegate to the National home), which is part of the Barmah Forest Mr Pryor says the idea for his walk Mr Raymond says the highlight of the Congress of Australia’s First People, and on the Victoria, New South Wales border came about after he spent 16 months journey was when Clinton asked him on a national peak body council for PBCs. on the Murray River. John has devoted a in Heirisson Island protesting the forced to come, and it’s been a buzz all the large portion of his working life sharing his Damian closure of Indigenous communities. way through. Coulthard – experiences and working with Aboriginal “When walking through the land you get Deputy Chair people in his local community and across “I realised how the system is failing our the states and territories of Australia. people and the injustices towards us, an understanding of how the people Damien is from not just ourselves, but towards everyone travelled through there. The culture lives John is the General Manager of Intract Adnyamathanha else, made me realise the steps to do out there. We’ve been in the ancient lands (Indigenous Contracting services). country. He something and stand up for something,” and we’ve travelled on songlines, so it’s In collaboration with the Aboriginal grew up in Quorn and Nepabunna South he said. all there still,” he says. Foundation of South Australia and Australia being very connected to his McMahon Services, Intract was Mr Pryor became a protester for forcibly Mr Pryor has been following songlines heritage and culture. His passion for established to provide contracting closed communities and the homeless and visiting communities on his journey teaching and ability to lead started at and training services to the civil after experiencing homelessness himself to Adelaide, the first major city on his a very early age when he first began construction and mining industries. following his father’s death. walk to Canberra. playing sport. As General Manager, this involves being “My brother died when I was 11 years “Getting back to the city we got bit This also led him to become a High active in establishing the operations old, then when dad died it shattered me, nervous because we haven’t been in the School Teacher, now in his seventh year of Intract, which include networking so I went to lose myself for two years,” city for a while, but once we got here the at Le Fevre High School in Semaphore. within the civil construction and mining he said. nervousness went away. He is the coordinator for the South industries, employing and training Australian Aboriginal Sports Training suitable staff including Aboriginal Noonie Raymond has been travelling with “It’s amazing to see all these people Academy (SAASTA) as well as Sports employees, undertaking projects Clinton since he left Perth after getting to walking behind me and joining us here Coordinator for his school. The SAASTA and business development. know one another on Heirisson Island on this march,” Mr Pryor said.

16 Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 specialised in professional indemnity throughout the country supporting On a personal level, he believes it Troy currently works as Aboriginal and then health law principally defending Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander imperative that custodians have Engagement Officer for WALGA Mining doctors and dentists. In 1998 he retired individuals, families and communities. their native title rights and interests and Services which is 100% Aboriginal from Wallmans Solicitors, and joined recognised and he actively supports Craig works within the philosophy of Owned. Troy has also been fortunate to United Medical Protection, now Avant, communities so they may engage in “Cultural Way First” which is reflected work with two other Aboriginal owned working in various management roles in his policy writing, consultation and other opportunities and become more Mining companies – Ngarda Civil and including Head of Claims, Deputy CEO self-determinate. advice surrounding strategic direction Mining (WA) and Rusca Bros (NT). and Acting CEO. and reorientation of service for Troy McNamara Aboriginal people. As Deputy Director Troy’s work experience is very broad, Since August 2007 he has worked as – Director having worked as a builder’s labourer an independent consultant principally to (Poche) with Flinders University, Craig Troy has spent in his teens, to working for the SA Professional Indemnity Insurers, and Legal has been working collaboratively with Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal people and Medical Practices. He was chairman most of his life Ambulance Service for three years in and the faculty of medicine, creating of SAPMEA from June 2008 until June on the Eyre his early 20s. a comprehensive, culturally safe and 2014, a founding director of SANTS and Peninsula, mainly secure Aboriginal health curricula in Troy has also advocated on behalf of interim chair until November 2009, chair in Whyalla, but in his younger years in order to create greater understanding Aboriginal prisoners and their families of the SA Law Claims Committee and in Port Lincoln. Troy is a Barngarla man and and promote attitudinal shifts in health through his employment as an Aboriginal June 2017 appointed as a supplementary he also has connection to the Narungga service professionals. Liaison Officer at Yatala Labour Prison member of SACAT. Allan retired from people on the Yorke Peninsula. and also with the Aboriginal Prisoners private legal practice on 30 June 2017. In addition to Craig’s work commitments Troy’s connection to country is very with the university, Craig also finds and Offenders Services (APOSS). strong and he often visits the Gawler Craig Allen – time to give back to community and Troy has been a member of numerous Director contributes his time, energy and Ranges where he has strong family ties. Boards over the past 20 years including expertise on a number of Aboriginal Troy also gave evidence to the Federal Craig is a as a Director on the Aboriginal Legal community-controlled boards. Court in 2014, and in January 2015 Yandruwandha Rights Board. Yawarrawarrka Craig intimately understands the spiritual Justice Mansfield ruled that the Barngarla man with and cultural connections Aboriginal people were the only Native Title holders For further information about our a background in Psychology and people have with their respective for that area, and Barngarla had satisfied Board and staff visit our website at: Criminology. He has worked extensively custodial lands. the requirements of the Native Title Act. www.nativetitlesa.org Clinton Pryor welcomed in Adelaide on his walk for justice Mr Pryor says his arrival in Adelaide will Melbourne and Sydney will be a different make the remainder of the journey easier kind of challenge. in terms of travelling and obtaining food “It will be harder in a way of talking and fuel, which was a struggle as he to a lot of people, working with a lot walked through the Western desert. of people, getting headaches, media “No one does a walk through that interviews, organising stuff with Western desert through summer, it’s too communities down that way and with dangerous, not much water out there. council groups and everything else, it will “I felt like I was dehydrated and I felt be more intense in that way,” he said. like I was going to die, that’s when Mr Pryor says the welcome he has I realised I had to get up and push through received from people in remote because the communities are not far out communities on his journey and the there to get fresh water and that. stories they shared with him opened his “Once we got over the hill, a community eyes to a different world. of people saw us and they came running “Hearing of injustices where you had “It is a hard thing to move on, and this is affecting all of us in a way that is making over with water and food and I felt relief deaths in custody, removal of children, what is really going on is there’s so much life hard. that I’d finally made it past the hardest bit people were raped and on top of that we bad that has happened and so much of the journey, the 16-day walk,” he said. “Everyone’s stressing out, life should be hear about the massacres that only took injustice is happening and everywhere is easier and peaceful and relaxing. Life While Mr Pryor has made it through the place back when our Elders were just failing. People are struggling these days should be easier for all the people of toughest physical part of his journey, he young. They used to have to watch their and something has to be done to lift the Australia,” he said. says his arrival in Adelaide is just a test dad or mother be shot off a cliff and you people’s spirit up again.” run, and the next leg of his journey to have society telling people to get over it. Mr Raymond says while the journey Mr Pryor says he hopes those inspired by has been the best of his life, he looks his journey will also start to stand up for forward to the end because it can only what they believe in. be the beginning of many changes the “Get up and stand up, stand up for what country needs. you believe in. Stop talking about it over “Who knows what’s going to happen social media and complaining, start doing when we get there. Our plans have it and start believing. changed from what we started off with “One thing I learnt about myself is how and Clinton’s got a fair bit of knowledge wise I have become with the knowledge in his head now. I have collected. It made me become a “Every day you learn and it’s been an stronger leader to keep going,” he said. incredible learning experience for Clinton Mr Pryor says it’s up to the people and myself. It’s been a pleasure; I’ve to take a stand against the injustices literally loved it and I have no regrets towards them. whatsoever,” he said.

“There’s so much failing on the system Clinton Pryor’s walk for justice right now from the Government itself can be followed via his website towards to the Australian people, that it’s www.clintonswalkforjustice.org

Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 17 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. People of the Red Sunset shining a light An innovative media organisation Australia, and uses the process of that partners with young people contemporary storytelling to engage from remote communities is behind participants and support them in creating a contagious new song and music important dialogue. video that is enjoying success and They have had nearly 2 million views on being viewed globally. their YouTube channel, mostly from young Desert Pea Media’s (DPM) recent Indigenous people. Creative Director collaboration with Bourke High School, Toby Finlayson says music is a great way a music video called ‘People of the Red to teach young Indigenous people about Sunset’ received 300,000 views in just their heritage. two weeks, was added to spot rotation “The more cultural content we can include on Triple J and was picked up by MTV. in the productions, the more young people are learning about their culture, their Created in only 5 days, ‘People of the identity, and their foundation. Red Sunset’ by the B-town Warriors is an ensemble hip-hop act from Bourke, NSW. “Our key objective is to create work The success of the project has led Desert that makes Indigenous people proud Pea Media to confirm funding for another and makes them feel connected to their four projects in Bourke this year. country, and to their communities, and Mr Finlayson says creating a conversation builds a bit of positivity,” he said. about these issues and what can be DPM is a charity organisation which done in response to the cultural and Another project entitled ‘Our Country, works with individuals and communities social devastation of Indigenous Australia Our Way’ by The Mob, which was in in regional and remote areas around is essential. in review in partnership with a legal service in Broken Hill, made the Triple J hottest 100. “Using art as a tool to kind of host that conversation in a way that’s non- “We are really proud of the outcome and the community is really stoked, confrontational and a bit easier, we can really make some progress,” he said. apparently the local radio gets 30 experiences and skills. While many were requests every day of that song, so Mr Finlayson says to successfully create already established producers, song they community is really proud of it,” community and cultural development, writers and artists, some are former Mr Finlayson said. DPM focuses on discussing how a participants of earlier projects. particular community can bridge the gap Mr Finlayson says the work of Desert “Some of our artists actually have come Pea Media is important to create between what is real and what is ideal in from project participants, so they’ve conversation, as there’s a real need their environment. started off as kids in schools who have for change in Australia. “We ask them to think about the bridge, participated in our song writing projects “There’s a really horrific social and so how do we get from the real to the and they’ve been mentored over the cultural history with our Indigenous ideal, how we get from where we are years to start facilitating projects, so it’s population and the effects of that have to where we want to be. So all of the kind of a bit of an inter-generational skill been experienced today, every day. content, everything that is written, base,” said Mr Finlayson. everything that goes into the songs and “The highest suicide rate in the world Mr Finlayson says with the success of the films, comes from the words of the is in young Indigenous people, there’s recent projects, Desert Pea Media are participants following that narrative.” ridiculous rates of incarceration and the busiest they have ever been, with chronic disease, and it’s really difficult,” Mr Finlayson says DPM is comprised many projects due for production and he said. of a team of artists who range in their release in the coming months. Photos courtesy Finlayson. of Toby

18 Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 SANTS Services Who we are and what we do aspirations, which are often broader • accessing business development than the recognition of native title. services and advice; SANTS is recognised and funded as the Native Title Service Provider for Native title determinations now have • identifying and delivering South Australia by the Commonwealth been made over more than half of South community development projects Government under s203FE(1) of the Australia. There are currently fifteen including to protect cultural Native Title Act 1993 (Cth). PBCs established in SA to manage heritage and country; native title rights and interests. SANTS provides legal representation • engaging in policy and legislative and guidance, anthropological research SANTS works with many of these reform and implementation. and community liaison to support native title groups to enhance their Recently, SANTS delivered its first SOUTH AUSTRALIAN native title applications, negotiations position to manage their native title corporate governance training program NATIVE TITLE SERVICES and determinations. outcomes, comply with legislative responsibilities and develop and grow to PBCs and also delivered two financial SANTS performs all of the functions to achieve their aspirations. management training sessions in of a representative body in native title partnership with PwC’s Indigenous Level 4 Our activity in this area includes: throughout South Australia. Consulting (PIC). 345 King William Street Those functions as set out in Section • developing and strengthening In our work in community development, ADELAIDE SA 5000 governance practices including 203B of the Native Title Act are: our focus is currently on protecting • Facilitation and assistance; through provision of legal advice, cultural heritage and caring for country. • Certification; development of corporate policies These collaborative caring for country Editor and delivery of education and • Dispute resolution; projects are important for the ongoing Keith Thomas training initiatives; • Notification; exercise and protection of native title • Agreement making; • facilitating community-based rights and interests. • Internal review; and planning to develop strategic and SANTS welcomes Aboriginal Nations Communications Officers • Other functions. operational plans; and native title groups who would like Lucy Kingston SANTS provides a wide range of services • developing and enhancing to work more with us. Kaliah Alice to South Australia’s Aboriginal Nations stakeholder relationships; SANTS receives funding from the who hold or may hold native title. • implementing agreements and Commonwealth and South Australian SANTS is committed to working with identifying, managing and enjoying Government to perform its functions Contributor Aboriginal Nations to realise their native title benefits; and to provide other services. Shanisse Edson

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www.nativetitlesa.org Clockwise from top left: Keith Thomas and Karina Lester; Field Project at Gawler Ranges National Park; Fencing at Thurlga; Sturt Desert Pea, APY Lands.

Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017 19 Native Title Areas in South Australia

Get Aboriginal Way Individuals or organisations can request free copies of this ISSUE 67 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: ______Radio program No. of copies:______Aboriginal Message… …airs each week on Wednesday at 3.30pm on 101.5FM in Adelaide. 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 http://radioadelaide.org.au/tags/aboriginal-message/

20 Aboriginal Way, Winter 2017