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Ewamian People’s native title rights recognised
by Christine Howes 27 November 2013
T
he Federal Court of Australia has recognised the Ewamian Peoples’ native title rights and interests over its traditional lands in north Queensland in two consent determinations handed down in Georgetown this week. Land within the vicinity of Georgetown, Forsyth, Einasleigh and Mt Surprise were the focus of a full day of celebrations and commemoration for Ewamian
David Hudson with Ewamian Ranger Steve Wargent and Keenan Shorey (9), Kelvin Shorey (10), Des-Ziair Shorey (11) & Yaraagul Yoren (12), at the Talaroo hot springs. All images: Christine Howes, courtesy North Queensland Land Council (NQLC)
(pronounced Oor-am-in) People. Ewamian Aboriginal Corporation Chairperson Ken Georgetown said it was a huge milestone for his community with the first claims being lodged in 1997. “Ewamian People have been working with the North Queensland Land Council for almost 20 years towards this determination of native title,” Mr Georgetown said. “Today’s determination is the culmination of many years hard
work and is a clear statement by the Australian legal system that Ewamian People are the native title holders of their country and have the legal right to exercise their native title rights and interests. “We look forward to the ongoing relationship with those that live and work in our traditional country. “Ewamian People’s native title has been recognised over about 26,000 square kilometers in the gulf country of Queensland.
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David Hudson with Elder Aunty Elma Lingard at the Talaroo hot springs.
“Ewamian People can camp, hunt, gather, conduct ceremonies, and maintain places of importance and significance on their traditional lands in accordance with traditional laws and customs. “Achieving these native title determinations is a fantastic outcome for Ewamian People and the wider community and
something everyone can celebrate Traditional Owner David Hudson agreed. “I’m looking forward to seeing families come together, sharing stories and people I haven’t seen for a long time coming back to country and spending time on our homelands,” he said. “It’s a whole day of festivities
starting in Georgetown and finishing for the night at our own Talaroo hot springs. “We will also be having a small plaque-opening that afternoon to honour our people who were massacred there 120 years ago. “This is a huge turning point for us as Indigenous Australians.”
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