Share this @internewscast.com


The Federal Court of Australia has formally recognised the Guugu Yimidhirr, Yiithuwarra, and Wuthathi Peoples as the Traditional Owners of approximately 915,000 hectares of land in Cape York.

This week, significant hearings were conducted in Cooktown and Cairns, drawing attention to pivotal historical campaigns by the Wuthathi Elders.

The decision is a significant development in the legal recognition of Indigenous land rights in the region, which has a strong history of organising by the Guugu Yimidhirr, Yiithuwarra, and Wuthathi peoples.

During the 1970s, the Wuthathi Elders were at the forefront of opposition against industrial projects threatening their lands, including sand-mining in Shelburne Bay and a proposed space base at Cape Flattery. Their efforts marked a crucial period of environmental and cultural advocacy.

These efforts contributed to the formation of the Cape York Land Council (CYLC) in 1990.
Now, more than three decades later, the Federal Court has affirmed the unbroken connection of these communities to their traditional lands.
The determination follows extensive negotiations with the State of Queensland, local councils, and private entities.
Richie Ah Mat, Acting CEO of the Cape York Land Council, emphasised the significance of the ruling.
“This recognition reflects the resilience and unity of our people, who have fought for land rights for generations,” he said in a statement.

Community Elders have expressed a profound sense of relief and satisfaction at the justice delivered after years of perseverance.

“This recognition affirms what our families have always known – that we are the Traditional Owners of this Country,” said Guugu Yimidhirr Elder Erica Deeral.
“After all these years, it feels good to know our hard work wasn’t in vain,” added Yiithuwarra Elder Hans Pearson.
Clara Day, Chair of the Cape York Land Council, acknowledged the contributions of past generations, many of whom did not live to see the outcome.

One Elder highlighted that this resolution might pave the way for meaningful collaboration among Indigenous communities, local industries, and conservation initiatives, fostering a more sustainable future.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Milo snack bars recalled over contamination alert

Urgent Recall: Contaminated Milo Snack Bars Pose Health Risk – What You Need to Know Now!

A popular snack often found in school lunchboxes is being pulled from…

Embrace the Extraordinary: 2026 Lunar New Year Ushers in the Rare and Auspicious Year of the Fire Horse

As the anticipation builds for the Lunar New Year, a vibrant celebration…
Satya Perumal

Melbourne Father Faces Life-Altering Challenges Following Brutal Assault

A donut delivery driver has been left with serious injuries following a…
A man has been bitten by a police dog during an arrest, bringing a four-hour siege to an end in Melbourne's north-east.

Melbourne Standoff: Dramatic Four-Hour Siege Concludes with Police Dog Takedown

A man has been bitten by a police dog during an arrest,…
Russia accused of killing opposition leader Alexei Navalny with 'dart frog toxin'

Allegations Emerge: Russia Linked to Alexei Navalny’s Death by Rare Toxin

According to five European nations, Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny was poisoned…

Australian Aerials Star Withdraws from Olympics Due to Injury

Australia’s esteemed aerials world champion, Laura Peel, has made the difficult decision…

Angus Taylor Faces Potential Challenges: Unpacking Long-Standing Liberal Party Issues Beyond Ley’s Shadow

Recent polling struggles for the Liberal Party cannot be solely attributed to…

Managing Stress During Lunar New Year: Essential Tips for Maintaining Mental Well-being

As the Lunar New Year draws near, many Asian Australian families are…

Investigation Launched into NSW Police Conduct at Protest Following Witness’s Account of ‘Dark Moment

The NSW police oversight body is set to examine officer actions following…

Australian PM Demands Accountability After Police Interrupt Muslim Prayer During Sydney Protest

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called on the New South Wales Police…
Two people have been killed and a driver has been arrested after a two-car crash in Sydney's south-west.

Tragic Sydney Collision Involving Suspected Stolen Vehicle Claims Two Lives

Tragedy struck in Sydney’s south-west as a two-car collision resulted in the…
"Priceless" Egyptian artifacts have been stolen from a Queensland museum, police said.

Priceless Egyptian Artifacts Stolen in Daring Queensland Museum Heist: Authorities on High Alert

“Priceless” Egyptian artifacts have been stolen from a Queensland museum, police said.…