Mackay Elders well looked after for Mabo Day

BY BEL LUI

Mabo Day celebrations in Mackay were held on Friday 2 June and hosted by the Mackay Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service.

The case led by late Eddie Koiki Mabo and the late plaintiffs which proved the Meriam (Murray Islanders) were bound by a system under Malo Law long before colonisation.

Tag mauki mauki, Teter mauki mauki –your hands mustn’t touch and your feet mustn’t walk on other people’s property.

Distinguished guests included Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson and Torres Strait Elders. Congratulations to Lana Munro (nee Barba) and the deadly staff of the Mackay ATSI Health Service, and also many thanks for the delicious lunch which was enjoyed by all.

TOP LEFT: John Kennell (snr) & Mayor Greg Williamson.

TOP RIGHT: ATSI womenfolk.

CENTRE LEFT: Cindy Tugai, Criscilla Lui & Jack Tugai.

CENTRE RIGHT: Elders Rosylene Bourne, Tom Lui & James (Lofty) Sambo.

BOTTOM LEFT: Young Meriam entertainers/ Dancers.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Guests under shelter.