Official Speech Binagal Bulmba 18 July 2022

OFFICIAL SPEECH Binagal Bulmba 18 July 2022 Gayaburra galin nyundu, may God's peace be upon all men & women here today.

I'm delighted to be here to deliver this speech at this year's opening of the law season; its always a wonderful occasion to make a special appearance and we look forward to this long lasting relationship in the interests of universal peace & perpetual amity.

Last year, the Honourable Justice James Henry spoke of the European roots behind this ceremony and I can not help thinking about those in England responsible for the law over the last few thousands of years; in particular how they would see this unique event here on the Yidindji territory today.

How does Halsbury's laws of England reside or operate on foreign soil? We know that Australian law is a derivative of its British roots, however the question on how would Australian law best co-exist on the Yidindji territory is an important matter. Is it best through force? Or through formal agreement?

These events are an excellent opportunity to provide those who have the ability to understand the necessary symbolism and interpret sign language to work together with the Yidindji Nation, for these people are critical in seeking truth and direction.

Given the importance of the theme of exchange, I thought to share some Yidindji concepts and words that would help bridge the gap in understanding.

Jabu nadjin, minya nadjin, Mayarr nadjin – is an ancient local maxim that can be found in the Yidindji legal dictionary, that means 'my land, my meat and my law” I guess its is the Yidindji way of saying and expressing the following: “that which is in my territory is my subject; its an old rule of a state’s authority over persons and things found within its territory” The Yidindji words binagal bulmba is the modern day description for the Yidindji court, and indeed, it rightfully means a place of attentive listening for the resolution of disputes.

“Whoever has ears let them hear”; I would like to read from the holy scriptures specifically Romans 13: verses 1-7 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgement on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear

of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience. 6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honour, then honour.”

I would like to personally pay respect to the honourable officers of the Queensland Supreme Court and other Commonwealth appointments and the honourable officers of the Yidindji realm especially our Yidindji police who truly are friends of the court; and the various Minister of the Sovereign Yidindji Government who are also present in their true & correct capacities.

It's these Yidindji men & women that have been working tirelessly and selflessly, displaying resilience, commitment, compassion and, most of all, leadership in this ever-changing situation.

The Uluru statement from the heart is often quoted by its Australian authors; it reinforces the position of co-existing sovereignties and asserts that the Aboriginal & Torres Strait islander tribes were the first nations on the Australian continent and adjacent islands, and possessed it under their own laws & customs, something which has neither been ceded nor extinguished.

Today, the Yidindji nation is here to assist and resolve the great injury that the Commonwealth of Australia has inflicted upon itself, for it is only those continuing pre-colonial indigenous Nations that can resolve that injury through formal agreements with the Commonwealth of Australia.

We are closing the gap in terms of creating various mechanisms to assist the Commonwealth of Australia to have its laws officially co-exist and reside on the Yidindji territory through a successfully concluded formal agreement.

The Yidindji nation knows this will be the remedy to settling the past & securing the future for all on the Yidindji territory. But I must highlight that our officials and representatives are to be afforded the same honour and respect, physically and in spirit, that we have shown all men & women here today.

It is in good faith, cooperation & in peace that, We the Yidindji nation strongly encourages the Commonwealth of Australia to walk and work together with the Sovereign Yidindji government.

We do not wish to feel lesser on the Yidindji territory because of who we are, this is completely unacceptable here, but I would also say in Australia as well. Congratulations to all on this special day and may God protect your every step on Yidindji land.

Thank you.

End of statement