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

Zelenskyy Urges Enhanced Air Defense Support Following Fatal Russian Attack on Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has renewed his plea for more air-defence systems…
Victoria Police persons of interest Melbourne protest October 2025.

Police to Unveil New Footage in Search for Suspects in Officer Assaults at Melbourne Protest

Detectives are intensifying their efforts to identify seven individuals linked to an…
Henry Pollock licked his lips as New Zealand performed the Haka pre-match on Saturday

Henry Pollock’s Bold Haka Stand Highlights England’s Triumph Over New Zealand in Historic Rugby Win

Henry Pollock, England’s latest rugby sensation, sparked mixed reactions with his bold…
England beat the All Blacks for the first time since 2019 with a famous victory on Saturday

Unveiling the Stars and Duds: England vs New Zealand Player Ratings Revealed

In an exciting showdown at Twickenham on Saturday afternoon, England triumphed over…
President Donald Trump speaks to reporters on Air Force One on his way to his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Fla., Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Trump’s Fiery Accusation: Marjorie Taylor Greene Branded as ‘Traitor’ in Explosive Rant

The president recently made a significant political move, marking the culmination of…

Australia’s Bold Move: Bowen Heads to Brazil to Secure COP31 Hosting Amid Türkiye Tensions

Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen will travel to the COP30 climate summit…
President Donald Trump speaks to reporters on Air Force One on his way to his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Fla., Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Trump Plans to File $7 Billion Lawsuit Against BBC Over Documentary Alterations

The BBC issued an apology to President Trump following the broadcast of…
Looming vote in the US marks crucial moment for Epstein files

Impending US Vote Set to Play Pivotal Role in Epstein Document Release

The upcoming week is poised to bring a pivotal moment that U.S.…
New Zealand are proud of their rugby history and success, but there is a suggestion that they have lost their aura

England’s Historic Victory at Twickenham: The End of the All Blacks’ Era of Dominance?

On my last visit to New Zealand, back in 2017 during the…
The political scandal every Australian PM could be at risk of repeating

Australian Prime Ministers Face Potential Scandal Repetition: A Cautionary Tale for Future Leadership

It has been 50 years since the unprecedented event where then-Governor-General John…
Wrong winner announced for South Australian Senior of the Year award

Mix-Up Unveils Incorrect Winner for South Australian Senior of the Year Award

A major faux pas occurred during the prominent Australian of the Year…
Kate's a single mum and a cattle farmer. One day, she lost her eyesight

Kate: Single Mother and Cattle Farmer Faces Life-Altering Vision Loss

After surviving a divorce and moving house, Queensland cattle farmer Kate Cosh…