Yule River
Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 July 2025
Yamatji on Country
Wednesday 10 and Thursday 11 September 2025
Wajarri Yamatji Part F Native Title Determination
Nanda Part C Native Title Determination
Hello and welcome to issue 51 of YMAC News
• Celebrate two native title determinations
• Discuss legislation affecting Native Title Holders
• Celebrate the successes and achievements of communities in our regions.
We are always on the lookout for interesting and informative news. If you have stories or photos you would like to share, please reach out to us by emailing editor@ymac.org.au
Yamatji Marlpa Aboriginal Corporation respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners and custodians throughout Western Australia, and on whose Country we work. We acknowledge and respect their deep connection to their lands and waterways. We honour and pay respect to Elders, and to their ancestors who survived and cared for Country.
Our offices are located on Whadjuk Country, Southern Yamatji Country, Kariyarra Country, and Yawuru Country. We recognise the continuing culture, traditions, stories and living cultures on these lands and commit to building a brighter future together.
Miss Natalie Parker, Co-Chairperson – Pilbara Region
Mr Peter Windie, Co-Chairperson – Yamatji Region
Front Cover Photos: Nanda Part C Native Title Determination (Photo: José Kalpers).
Wajarri Yamatji Part F Native Title Determination (Photo: José Kalpers).
News from the CEO
Welcome to issue 51 of YMAC News.
We have had a great start to 2025, starting with two native title determinations in February.
Congratulations to all the Native Title Holders celebrating recognition by the Federal Court of Australia through the Nanda Part C and Wajarri Yamatji Part F determinations on 13 February. This positive outcome is the result of many, many years of commitment and work by the claim groups and communities, and I want to acknowledge all those Elders and community members who are sadly no longer with us to celebrate this important achievement. Read more on pages 14 and 15.
I am also pleased to share that following authorisation and lodgement with the Federal Court in 2023, the Badimia Barna native title claim has now also been registered with the National Native Title Tribunal (NNTT). Additionally, the Nhuwala claim’s application for registration has also been lodged with the NNTT and is awaiting a decision by the Registrar. I look forward to sharing further updates on resolution of unclaimed areas in our regions as the year progresses.
All YMAC members will have recently received a letter from us regarding a survey being undertaken by independent consultancy, Think Culture. This is part of the consultation process for YMAC’s 2026 – 2030 Strategic Plan, which will be finalised towards the end of 2025. This is a critical document for the organisation, as it sets the direction for the next five years, and the survey is one of many ways in which we are seeking input into YMAC’s future direction. Learn more on page 5.
YMAC has spent several months in communication with WA Police Commissioner Mr Col Blanch and staff from WA Police to seek clarity on how the Firearms Act 2024
will impact Traditional Owners in our regions, as it came into effect on 31 March this year. An update on progress can be found on page 12.
Finally, I want to close off by advising that the end of 2024 saw the conclusion of my involvement in the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s First Nations Clean Energy and Emissions Reductions Advisory Committee. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this committee, which played a major role in the First Nations Clean Energy Strategy released by the Federal Government in late last year. This new strategy encourages proper partnerships with Traditional Owner groups in the development of clean energy projects, especially those projects hoping to benefit from Government funding, and I urge anyone working in this space to have a look.
Simon Hawkins, YMAC Chief Executive Officer
YMAC 2024 ARMs update
In November last year, YMAC held its Pilbara and Yamatji Annual Regional Meetings (ARMs).
The ARMs provide an opportunity for members to come together and discuss any current issues, ask questions, receive updates and feedback, and take part in their regional committee elections.
Pilbara ARM
The Pilbara ARM was held on Kariyarra Country in the YMAC Port Hedland office on Friday 22 November. One position became vacant on the Pilbara Regional Committee, with Ms Raylene Button, Kariyarra, re-elected.
Following the election process, the current Pilbara Regional Committee and YMAC Directors are:
Ms Natalie Parker, Chairperson – Pilbara Regional Committee; YMAC Co-Chairperson – Pilbara Region
Mrs Doris Eaton, Deputy Chairperson – Pilbara Regional Committee; YMAC Deputy Co-Chairperson – Pilbara Region
Ms Raylene Button, re-elected to Pilbara Regional Committee; currently on YMAC Board of Directors
Mr Terry Jaffrey, Pilbara Regional Committee member; also on YMAC Board of Directors
Mr Ivan Smirke, Pilbara Regional Committee member; also on YMAC Board of Directors
Ms Diane Stewart, Pilbara Regional Committee member; also on YMAC Board of Directors
Mr Albert Pianta, Pilbara Regional Committee member.
Yamatji ARM
The Yamatji ARM was held on Saturday 30 November on Baiyungu Country in Exmouth.
Following the election process, the new Yamatji Regional Committee met and undertook an election to fill vacant positions on the Board of Directors. The Yamatji Regional Committee Directors are now:
Mr Peter Windie, re-elected to Yamatji Regional Committee, as well as Chairperson – Yamatji Regional Committee; YMAC Co-Chairperson – Yamatji Region
Ms Deborah Oakley, re-elected to Yamatji Regional Committee, as well as Deputy Chairperson – Yamatji Regional Committee; YMAC Deputy Co-Chairperson – Yamatji Region
Ms Sharna Oakley, Yamatji Regional Committee Member; also on YMAC Board of Directors
Mr Richard Oakley, re-elected to Yamatji Regional Committee, and as a Yamatji Director, YMAC Board of Directors
Mr Albert Winder, re-elected to Yamatji Regional Committee, and as a Yamatji Director, YMAC Board of Directors
Ms Cicily Dowden, re-elected to Yamatji Regional Committee, and as a Yamatji Director, YMAC Board of Directors
Mr Barry Dodd, Yamatji Regional Committee member
Mr Grant Dodd, Yamatji Regional Committee member
Ms Gail Bellotti, re-elected Yamatji Regional Committee member
Mr Wayne Evans, re-elected Yamatji Regional Committee member
Mr Revel Oakley Sr, Yamatji Regional Committee member
Ms Louise Oakley, newly elected Yamatji Regional Committee member
Mr Ben Roberts, re-elected Yamatji Regional Committee member
YMAC gives sincere thanks to our outgoing members of the Yamatji Regional Committee, Mr Paul Barron and Ms Tracey Tonga
Have your say on our new Strategic Plan
YMAC has begun consultation with stakeholders on the development of our new Strategic Plan for 2026 – 2030.
Working with independant consultant Ms Mandy Gadsdon from Think Culture, we are committed to creating a plan which meets the current and future needs and aspirations of First Nations people and organisations in our regions, while also fulfilling our governance and native title representative body (NTRB) responsibilities.
The YMAC Board of Directors kicked off the process in February with a strategic planning workshop.
The recent YMAC All Staff Conference then provided an opportunity for staff to engage in the consultation
strengths and weaknesses; the purpose, vision and values of the corporation; and what those values look like in action.
Think Culture is keen to hear from our members, PBCs, and other organisations connected to our work in the Yamatji and Marlpa regions to inform this process, and is inviting people to contribute thoughts and ideas by completing an online survey before Wednesday 30 April 2025
All completed surveys will go into a draw to win one of five gift vouchers – valued at $100.
To take part in the survey, scan the QR
YMAC’s Renewable Energy Guide promotes the highest engagement standards and provides a practical tool to guide renewable energy project negotiations between developers and First Nations peoples.
It is our goal to ensure First Nations peoples’ involvement in this Greenfields industry can result in long-term generation of capital – a key to self-determination – as well as close involvement in decision-making about activity impacting their unique cultural heritage and Country.
The Guide consists of a set of eight ‘standards’ to guide renewable energy developers in how best to engage with Prescribed Bodies Corporate (PBCs) and Aboriginal Corporations and achieve free, prior and informed consent, as well as a project timeline that discusses key requirements for each stage of a project’s development.
Access the Renewable Energy Guide at ymac.org.au/renewable-energy
Wadjumup Sorry Business and commemoration ceremony
Last November, members of the YMAC Board of Directors were honoured to participate in Wadjemup Wirin Bidi, a ceremonial week to carry out Sorry Business and commemorate the history of Wadjemup / Rottnest Island.
Over 4,000 Aboriginal men and boys were forcibly taken from across Western Australia, including both the Yamatji and Pilbara regions, and incarcerated at Wadjemup between 1831 – 1931. More than 370 of these men and boys are buried on the island.
During the ceremony, Premier Roger Cook acknowledged the role of the State Government in that process and apologised on behalf of the people of WA.
He also committed to working towards healing.
Mr Windie, YMAC Co-Chairperson – Yamatji Region, attended the ceremony accompanied by Mrs Eaton, Deputy Co-Chairperson – Pilbara Region.
During a speech at the ceremony, Mr Windie explained the impacts of what happened at Wadjemup on First Nations people.
“For decades, our communities have continued to experience the terrible impacts of the deep trauma resulting from actions by Government such as what took place here on Wadjemup,” said Mr Windie.
“Along with me, my family and my community, the Board of YMAC strongly believes in the importance of truth-telling.
“We are pleased the State Government and the Rottnest Island Authority have followed through their commitments to recognise the past, to make sure people know what happened, and that our old Country people are properly put to rest. It is important that they continue to work with us to make sure it is done the proper way.
“Truth-telling won’t fix the past, but it will help us to move forward.”
Wadjemup Wirin Bidi was held as part of the Wadjemup Project, a state-wide, Aboriginal led, truth-telling project aiming to acknowledge and reconcile the history of Wadjemup.
For more information on the Wadjemup Project visit the Rottnest Island Authority website at ria.wa.gov.au/managingthe-island/cultural-heritage/wadjemup-project
Wadjemup online database
The WA Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries has created an online searchable database of Aboriginal people who were sent to the island between 1900 and 1931. The information has been compiled from publicly available records such as WA police gazettes, police reports and occurrence books, court records, admission and discharge registers and historical newspapers.
To find out more and search the database visit dlgsc.wa.gov.au/aboriginal-culture/aboriginalhistory/reconciliation-and-history-projects/ wadjemup
Carnarvon office closure
Following a review of activity in the lead up to the lease expiring on our Carnarvon office in March, YMAC made the difficult decision to close our Carnarvon office.
We have been grateful to be able to provide a community hub as well as provide local YMAC members and PBC services in the region.
We will continue to provide services to our Carnarvon members and PBCs through local meetings and other events, as well as from our Geraldton and Perth offices.
Thank you to the Carnarvon community for the support over the past three years.
If you require assistance, please get in contact with our Geraldton office on (08) 9965 6222 or our Perth office on 1800 270 709.
Strengthening language through the Badimia Guwagga Project
After receiving a State Government grant from the Department of Education through the First Nations Language Education Program, the Badimia Guwagga Team facilitated a four-day Badimia language workshop for Badimia community members, Elders, teachers and students, in Mount Magnet from 27 February to 2 March 2025.
At the workshop, the team shared information about short and long term goals of the project and visions for carrying the language forward, a timeline of activities, and historical information about the decline of Badimia language. Participants who attended had the opportunity to discuss their visions for carrying the language forward to foster a resilient community dedicated to passing down language and cultural knowledge across generations.
Students from Kindy to Year 12 at Mount Magnet District High School participated in fun and educational sessions.
Uncle Warren Walsh inspecting the Badimia art ochre on the cave face (Photo: Kiara Rahman)
Attendees of the Badimia language workshop in Mount Magnet (Photo: Annelise Jansen)
Primary school students learnt a Badimia song from Gary Passmore and engaged in language learning activities, while the high school students enjoyed an on-Country cultural learning experience visiting important sites and hearing stories and language from the Elders.
Dr Kiara Rahman, Badimia Guwagga Project Coorodinator said the weekend sessions were family focused.
“The weekend sessions were dedicated to culture and language strengthening with opportunities to also visit sites of cultural significance on Country, led by Badimia Elders Uncle Warren Walsh, Uncle Godfrey Simpson, Aunty Gloria Fogarty and Aunty Jenny Green, among many other local Mount Magnet Badimia Elders,” Kiara said.
“Attendees were privileged to learn stories from the sites while brainstorming Badimia language that was connected to those sites, such as animals, trees and plant life, seasons, weather patterns and directions for navigation.
“The final day was dedicated to visiting a site led by Uncle Warren, leading into a debrief and planning session to discuss the next steps with the project work, and obtaining feedback from the group. Elders shared their thoughts about how the project can work to foster a resilient community dedicated to passing down language and cultural knowledge across generations,” Kiara said.
Online meetings will be held fortnightly to discuss the project moving forward. It is open to all Badimia community members, and is accessible via Teams. For more information and to join, contact Dr Kiara Rahman, Project Coordinator at kiara24@live.com.au
Access to the Badimia online learning portal is free. To find out more visit badimialanguage.com.au
State Funding to support Aboriginal languages
The WA Government has announced it will provide $200,000 in funding to establish Aboriginal Languages WA, a peak body to support Aboriginal languages in Western Australia. This work has previously been carried out by the Western Australian Network of Aboriginal Language Centres.
Aboriginal Languages WA will strengthen and grow the use of language across the state, while encouraging the First Nations knowledge, culture, and language to be passed down through the generations. The peak body will also aim to advocate for legislative and policy changes which will benefit Aboriginal languages across WA, including the Bundiyarra Irra Wangga Language Centre and the Wangka Maya Pilbara Aboriginal Language Centre.
Aunty Gloria Fogarty sharing stories about how Badimia people etched the stories into their physical environment (Photo: Kiara Rahman)
Attendees of the Badimia language workshop in Mount Magnet admiring the Badimia art ochre on the cave face (Photo: Kiara Rahman)
Badimia red ochre hand stencils from children on the cave face (Photo: Kiara Rahman).
YMAC hosts PBC forum on ‘Review of the Future Acts Regime’
In February 2025, YMAC was pleased to partner with the Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) to host an in-person consultation forum for Prescribed Bodies Corporate (PBCs) to provide direct input to the current ‘Review of the Future Acts Regime’. The consultation was open to staff and directors from all PBCs operating within YMAC’s representative regions, and resulted in a good turnout on the day with lots of great and productive discussion.
Attendees at the consultation identified critical shortcomings within the existing future act regime, including:
• The Expedited Procedure process places undue administrative and financial burdens on Native Title Parties. It does not allow for sufficient engagement, has outdated criteria and is applied inconsistently.
• The Right to Negotiate process is manipulated by proponents and has exemptions for government projects. This process imposes an excessive burden of proof on Native Title Parties.
• Comments provided to government departments are not acknowledged and seemingly disregarded, rendering their contributions ineffective and wasting valuable resources.
• There is an absence of clear guidelines for ‘good faith’ consultations, an unfair burden of proof on Native Title Parties and superficial engagement by proponents.
To address issues, attendees proposed the following solutions:
• Replace or substantially reform the expedited procedure, potentially introducing an ‘Expedited Right to Negotiate’.
• Grant Native Title Parties a limited veto right for exploration and mining proposals.
• Strengthen requirements for good faith negotiations, shifting the burden of proof to proponents.
• Mandate government departments provide substantive responses to comments from Native Title Holders.
• Establish comprehensive national guidelines and adopt best practice negotiation standards, including free, prior and informed consent (FPIC).
Insights shared by attendees on the challenges faced in the existing future acts regime, and how it can be improved to work more effectively, equally and fairly, were documented by both YMAC and the ALRC. This information will help inform the ALRC’s review overall, as well as provide important context to YMAC’s final submission to the review later this year.
YMAC is grateful to all who attended this important consultation, and we thank them for their time and generously sharing their invaluable expertise and experiences.
What is the ALRC?
The ALRC is an independent statutory body (established under law) that reviews and makes recommendations to the Australian Government about how to improve federal legislation.
What is the ‘Review of the Future Acts Regime’?
As part of the Australian Government’s response to the findings and recommendations following its inquiry into the destruction of 46,000 year old caves at the Juukan Gorge in the Pilbara, the ALRC has been tasked to undertake its own inquiry into the future acts regime in the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth).
The inquiry involves identifying issues and problematic areas within the current regime as well as ideas for improvement and reform.
Have your say!
If you would like to make a submission to the inquiry, you can do so in writing or by providing an audio recording.
To learn more, visit www.alrc.gov.au/ inquiry/review-of-the-future-actsregime or email nativetitle@alrc.gov.au.
Congratulations Wajarri Enterprises
YMAC congratulates Wajarri Enterprises Ltd for their recent recognition as the Aboriginal Business of the Year at the Mid West Chamber of Commerce and Industry Business Excellence Awards. Wajarri Enterprises Ltd is established by Wajarri Yamaji Aboriginal Corporation and Winja Wajarri Barna Limited for the benefit of all Wajarri Yamatji people.
As well as employing 45 staff, Wajarri Enterprises Ltd is a fantastic asset to the local community through its charitable support and business partnerships in the wider community.
Wajarri Enterprises Ltd has developed a Wajarri maintenance and building crew to undertake major upgrades to the Drummond Cove Holiday Park, which has resulted in further external work for the team. Last year they also commenced a joint venture partnership with Ventia – the only joint partnership Ventia has with an Aboriginal company, and successfully took on a three-year waste management contract with Strandline.
Wajarri Enterprises Ltd has built strong connections in the community by referring Wajarri businesses to contracts with the SKAO project and others, and by forming relationships with other local Midwest businesses, opening doors for the Wajarri businesses and employment.
Young people are also supported by Wajarri Enterprises Ltd through their charitable contributions to the Youth Drivers Licence Program, enabling affordable driving lessons and supervised driving hours.
The Mid West Chamber of Commerce and Industry Business Excellence Awards bring together businesses from across the region to network, and to celebrate excellence. Ehsan Haque, CEO of Wajarri Enterprises Ltd was honoured to win the award.
“Winning the Aboriginal Business of the Year award at the Midwest Business Awards was a true honour, especially after being named a finalist last year,” Ehsan said. “This achievement highlights our growth and is a testament to the dedication and hard work our team has put in throughout the year, and we couldn’t be prouder.”
Wajarri Enterprises Ltd is also nominated as a finalist in the Regional Business awards taking place at the end of March.
Find out more about the important contributions Wajarri Enterprises makes to their community on their website at wajarrienterprises.com.au
New firearms laws in Western
With the new Firearms Act 2024 and FirearmsRegulations2024 having come into effect from Monday, 31 March 2025, YMAC has spent several months working to get clarity on what these new laws will mean for Traditional Owners, PBCs, and registered native title claimants in our Yamatji and Marlpa regions.
While the reforms aim to make the community safer by limiting the number of firearms and how easily they are accessed, when the new laws were passed, YMAC received several queries about how they will impact the way people exercise their native title rights to hunt. In response, YMAC wrote to the WA Police Commissioner and WA Minister for Police, and our staff have since had several discussions with State Government, in particular WA Police, about how these reforms might impact Traditional Owners and certain rights protected by the Native Title Act 1993 (Cth).
Under the previous firearms laws, a person holding a hunting licence could hunt with a firearm wherever hunting was permitted. The new laws will now require individuals to obtain permission to hunt with firearms from an authorised person/entity for each area they wish to hunt.
The regulations associated with the new laws allow PBCs and registered native title claimants (in addition to freehold landowners and pastoralists) to be “authorised persons” to provide permissions to hunt. Authorised persons must register with the Commissioner of Police, who will assess the land for suitability for hunting purposes (and which firearms can be used in that area). Native Title Holders, and members of registered native title claims can seek permission to hunt from their PBC or registered native title claimants respectively.
The new law and permission system does not change the need for people hunting on Country to inform and engage with other land users of that Country (for example pastoralists and mining companies) to ensure the hunting is done safely, and does not disrupt other people’s lawful use of the land.
Some of the key changes to the new firearms laws include:
• Reducing the number of firearms an individual can own (depending on the type of licence/s they hold).
• The introduction of Mandatory Disqualifying Offences and Orders (MDOs), which will make certain people with criminal histories ineligible to be granted a firearms licence.
• All gun licence applicants will need to complete mandatory firearms training.
• Gun owners will also need to undergo regular physical and mental health assessments and comply with new gun storage requirements.
• Increased penalties for unlawful possession and use of firearms.
As well, with a view to putting public safety first, thousands of firearms have already been removed from the community through a buyback scheme that took place in 2024 in the lead-up to the introduction of the new laws.
Australia now in effect
YMAC understands that there is a transition period for the new laws, commencing 31 March 2025. People who have committed a disqualifying offence and are ineligible to hold a hunting licence will cease to have one on that day. Hunting licences held by other people will continue until their expiry date, but will need to be renewed under the new system when they are due for renewal.
For licences that expire soon after 31 March 2025, licence holders will have a minimum of three (3) months to arrange renewing their licence in the new system.
On 1 April the State Government announced that an additional buyback period for returning firearms to the WA Police will be in place for 9 months, from 14 April 2025 to 14 January 2026.
This will provide an additional opportunity for gunowners to receive financial support for surrendering firearms, after a successful buyback period was held last year.
WA Police will be sending information to all current licence and firearm holders to advice what will be required and when.
YMAC will be monitoring the introduction of the new laws and will provide updates relative to native title and Traditional Owners via our website at ymac.org.au.
Should you have questions relating to your individual licencing eligibility and/or needs, we encourage you to contact WA Police directly by phone on 1300 171 011, by email at licensingservices@police.wa.gov.au, or by visiting your local police station.
Information for Prescribed Bodies Corporate (PBCs) and registered claimants
WA Police have advised YMAC that PBCs and registered claimants will be able to apply to become an “authorised person”, who can issue hunting permissions for their respective determination and registered claim areas. Initially, this process will require an email to be sent to licensingservices@police.wa.gov.au.
In time, it will be possible to apply through an online portal.
It is important to note that PBCs and registered claimants will not be responsible for enforcing or influencing other licensing requirements or decisions – e.g. if a person is deemed ineligible to hold a licence under the new laws and/or by WA Police.
While details of PBCs’ and registered claimants’ roles and responsibilities regarding the new legislation are further clarified, YMAC will remain engaged with WA Police and is providing information and updates directly to PBCs and registered claimants in our representative regions as they are confirmed.
Native Title Holders
Two
separate
determinations were made on the same day, Thursday
Nanda Part C Determination
The Nanda Part C Native Title Determination is the third and final determination for the Nanda people, resolving all their claims.
During the court proceedings, His Honour Justice Murphy explained his reasons for judgement.
“Thirty years is a long time for legal proceedings, but that period pales in comparison to the tens of thousands of years over which the Nanda People have forged their connection to their Country,” said Justice Murphy.
“This Determination is not a gift or bestowal of native title. Rather, it is a formal recognition of something that has always been. It is an acknowledgment by the Court of a simple but profound truth: that this land has never ceased to belong to the Nanda People, and the Nanda People to it.”
The area of land determined covers around 1,831 square kilometres of land and waters, with Nanda being
recognised as holding exclusive native title over around 1,104 square kilometres.
Ms Delveen Whitby, Nanda Traditional Owner, thanked all those involved in the decades-long legal process, including the Nanda Applicants, Working Group Members, the State of WA, and YMAC staff.
“Thank you for all your hard work, effort, and dedication,” Ms Whitby said. “We look forward to developing meaningful relationships with Government throughout Nanda land.
“His Honour said some simple and profound words, referring to simple and profound truths – and that’s what’s got us here today. So, let’s acknowledge the fact that we’re a community of strong, diverse, opinionated people, and put all of our efforts and energies together to move in our community for the next thirty years, for the future generations and for looking after the Elders in our Country.”
Following the determinations, Mr Peter Windie, YMAC Co-Chairperson Yamatji Region, of the corporation, and recognised the long journey
“The claimants of both the Nanda and Wajarri Yamatji claims – and their Old People who throughout the process,” said Mr Windie. “We are celebrating with the Native Title Holders Nanda and Wajarri Yamatji people throughout these legal Congratulations to all the
Nanda Native Title Holders. L-R front row: Mary Kelly, Betty Marino, Lorraine Whitby, Robin Kelly, Barbara Namok, Carol Roe, Irene Kelly, Stephen Kelly (Photo: José Kalpers, YMAC)
Nanda Native Title Holders. L-R: Betty Marion, Tania Namok, Barbara Namok (Photo: José Kalpers, YMAC)
Holders celebrate
Thursday 13 February 2025, at the Geraldton Surf Life Saving Club.
Wajarri Yamatji Part
F Determination
The Wajarri Yamatji Part F Determination also ends the long and arduous journey to achieve recognition, as the sixth and final native title determination for the Wajarri Yamatji people.
The area determined covers around 14,706 square kilometres of land and waters in Wajarri Yamatji Country, with the Wajarri Yamatji people also being recognised as holding exclusive native title over around 3,239 square kilometres.
His Honour Justice Murphy explained the Wajarri Yamatji continuous connection to Country as his reasons for judgement.
“The Wajarri Yamatji people and their representatives have displayed strength, resilience and persistence in pursuing their claim since the 1990s, so as to ensure that the Wajarri Yamatji people’s rights and interests in their Country are recognised by the Court, and consequently the broader Australian community. They must be congratulated for their dogged pursuit of their legitimate claims,” Justice Murphy said.
“By this determination the Court recognises that despite the conflict, displacement and dispossession, the Wajarri Yamatji People fought to maintain their culture and their connection to their Country.”
Ms Jennylyn Hamlett, Wajarri Yamatji Traditional Owner, is grateful to all the people who have been part of this long journey to recognition. Ms Hamlett’s father, Mr Colin Hamlett, is an original Applicant to the claim.
“Today has been a long journey for Wajarri people. On behalf of the people who helped us along the way: a big thank you. It’s been three decades in the making, but we got here. So, I’d like to congratulate everybody that’s been involved in the process,” Ms Hamlett said.
“We as Wajarri people are proud Wajarri people and it’s great for the recognition.”
The day’s proceedings ended with cultural dancing from Wajarri Yamatji people and time shared together over lunch.
View more pictures from these determinations on our website at ymac.org.au/photos
Region, congratulated the Nanda and Wajarri Yamatji Native Title Holders on behalf journey of the claimants to reach this milestone. who are sadly no longer with us – have given an incredible amount of knowledge and time Holders of both of these determinations. YMAC is incredibly proud to have worked with the legal processes, which have each spanned almost 30 years.” the Native Title Holders.
Wajarri Yamatji dancers: Brian O’Dean, Godfrey Simpson, Jeff Mongoo (Photo: José Kalpers, YMAC)
Wajarri Yamatji Native Title Holders. L-R: Jennylyn Hamlett, David Jones, Gloria Merry, Robin Boddington, Pam Mongoo, Gavin Egan, Carrum Mourambine, Dwayne Mallard (Photo: José Kalpers, YMAC
Yamatji on-Country Call to Action update
After community members gathered in Geraldton and expressed their frustrations at a lack of government response to the 2023 Call to Action, YMAC has captured the community’s Calls to Actions on issues identified over the past three years into the 2024 Yamatji On-Country Call to Action Statement (CTA). Once again, the statement is calling the government for genuine commitment and inviting them to work with First Nations people throughout the Mid West, Murchison and Gascoyne regions to deliver on the solutions for change that are so badly needed.
After requests from community members in 2023, the Midwest Aboriginal Organisations Alliance (MAOA), of which YMAC is a member, have continued in their role as the main driving force behind delivering on community needs within the CTA. At the 2024 meeting, community members heard from the MAOA co-chairs about the progress they had made on the CTA since 2023, including their ongoing involvement with the Mid West District Leadership Group (DLG), and the work they are currently doing which includes community consultation meetings and engagement so they can build for the future. YMAC are proud to be a MAOA member and believe that by supporting the CTA through MAOA, ACCOs are stronger, and community members have a way to hold government to account while building their community controlled organisation’s capacity.
Since publication of the 2024 CTA, YMAC has been busy arranging meetings and supporting liaison with stakeholders across government, industry and community organisations to encourage people to get on board with delivering on the needs of community, and to consult with grassroots people and their organisations about how best to do so.
There have been some recent announcements from Government that address some of the needs community members have identified. This includes $1.4m for Geraldton Youth Hub to be established, an increase in funding for family and domestic violence services in the regions, increased investment in social housing in Geraldton, and funding increases for small and remote schools in the Mid West and Gascoyne regions. Unfortunately, following a broken promise to provide community with a comprehensive report ahead of the 2024 meeting, the State Government has not at the time of writing shared detailed information with us ahead of this year’s meeting – despite transparency being a key and shared frustration for community members last year.
At the request of YMAC’s Yamatji Regional Committee, we are planning a roadshow to towns throughout the region to make sure that community members who are unable to travel to Geraldton for the Yamatji On-Country meeting can provide feedback and input on this year’s meeting and any future CTAs. We are currently planning to visit Carnarvon, Mullewa and Mount Magnet in the coming months and will provide more information as these events are organised.
2025 ANNUAL ONCOUNTRY BUSH MEETING
Yule River Call to Action update
In November 2024, YMAC and the Yule River Call to Action Working Group (YRWG) published the 2024 Yule River Call to Action and Solutions Roadmap (CTA), following the gathering of hundreds of members of the Pilbara Aboriginal community on Kariyarra Country for
the 2024 On-Country Bush Meeting at Yule River.
The YRWG developed, drafted and finalised the CTA after speaking with community members at both the 2023 and 2024 Bush Meetings and regional workshops in April 2023 and 2024. The YRWG is a group of grassroots community members who are driving outcomes on the CTA after being nominated at a workshop held in April 2023.
The YRWG is made up of Mrs Eaton, Linda Dridi, Henry Lockyer, Ashley Councillor, Terry Jaffrey, Raylene Button, Donny Wilson, Danny Brown, and Maureen MK Kelly OAM.
The 2024 Call to Action and Solutions Roadmap is an open invitation to local, State and Federal governments to work with Pilbara Aboriginal peoples –and the Pilbara Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations delivering services – to deliver real and sustainable change to Close the Gap. It covers six categories that community have said are the most important issues they face: Systemic Reform, Education, Health, Housing, Wellbeing and Community Safety.
After Premier Roger Cook told the Working Group they could expect a response last year, they failed to deliver on the detail.
When the 2024 CTA was shared with Government, Mrs Eaton said: “Without transparency, our community is left without answers to their urgent concerns. We have undertaken an enormous amount of work to finalise the clear and actionable list of solutions in our Call to Action. They address the very real concerns experienced by Aboriginal people across the Pilbara every day.”
Since the CTA was published, the YRWG and YMAC have been hard at work, meeting with government agencies, ACCOs, PBCs and other community organisations to keep community informed and push Government for more action on the CTA and for real on the ground change to be delivered.
Following the 2024 Meeting there has been progress on some items in the CTA, including the Western Australian Police Force announcing a reward for missing people in the Pilbara and surrounding regions after the tireless work of the Taylor family who presented at Yule River, and the recent pledge from the State Government to provide Wirraka Maya with some much needed funding for an expanded facility, which CEO June Councillor also presented to community gathered last year at Yule River.
Modern technology assists on-Country fire management
The Nyangumarta Rangers and Traditional Owners are working with the Indigenous Desert Alliance in managing traditional desert fire methods with new, modern technology.
The Desert Habitat Method (DHM) is a transparent measurement tool which can help rangers to plan, track, and improve their work; explain their work to others, including Elders, community members, and stakeholders; report their work to funders; and encourage potential new funders to see the value of supporting their work.
This method focuses on fire management, and is a way to measure the impact of fire on habitat for native animals.
The DHM is currently in the testing phase, with two on-Country workshops held in 2024 bringing together rangers, Elders, and Traditional Owners to work through the new tool, ensuring it will work effectively. Two trials are also planned to be held in 2025.
The project is supported by funding from the Australian Government’s Innovative Biodiversity Monitoring Program.
The Indigenous Desert Alliance has created a short film on a recent workshop held with the Nyangumarta rangers and Traditional Owners, Nyangumarta Wika Muwarr, which you can watch online. Find out more on our website at ymac.org.au/announcements
Nyangumarta Rangers with Traditional Owners and the Indigenous Desert Alliance at a recent Desert Habitat Method workshop (Photo: Salty Davenport)
YMAC calls for information sharing from State Government to Close the Gap
After the release of the latest Closing the Gap data from the Productivity Commission, YMAC called on the State Government to urgently address the requests from both the Pilbara and Yamatji communities to share access to data and information about the efforts being undertaken to address their very clear concerns and needs as outlined in both the 2024 Yule River Call to Action and Solutions Roadmap and the 2024 Yamatji On-Country Call to Action Statement.
Both these critical documents are tied directly to the Closing the Gap Outcomes and are aligned to the four Priority Reforms that both the WA and Federal Governments have committed to delivering under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap:
1 Formal partnerships and shared decision-making;
2 Building the Community-Controlled Sector;
3 Transforming government agencies and institutions;
4 Shared access to data and information
As some of the targets under the Agreement have continued to worsen, YMAC has highlighted the need for governments to be accountable, demonstrate they are taking these commitments seriously, and work with members of the Pilbara and Yamatji communities who are steadfastly committed to leading work to deliver the Outcomes within the Agreement.
YMAC notes that following a commitment from Premier Cook in 2023 to provide both communities with a separate and comprehensive report against the very clear issues and solutions contained within each regions independent Call to Action, this has not been provided.
In December 2024, in response to a repeated request for a report against the 2024 Calls to Action, two brief letters of response were provided by the WA Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Dr Tony Buti for each region which contained no detailed reporting.
YMAC is aware that this decision has once again left communities across both regions in the dark about how government is responding to their calls to action on critical issues, and the feeling their concerns are being ignored.
We note that if the State Government is genuinely committed to Priority Reform 4, community members will have access to information that explains the work being done in their communities, allowing them to determine what issues require increased support and ensuring accountability into the future.
In the spirit of both the 2024 Yule River Call to Action and Solutions Roadmap and the 2024 Yamatji On-Country Call to Action, we have once again urged government to work with the Pilbara and Yamatji communities and their ACCOs to deliver on the commitments they have made under the National Agreement.
Anthropology in the native title era
In February this year, YMAC staff attended the Centre for Native Title Anthropology (CNTA) 2025 Annual Conference, held in Mianjin / Brisbane. This year’s theme was From whence we came to where we go: Anthropology in the native title era.
The CNTA Conference brought together native title anthropologists, heritage professionals, legal practitioners, and Native Title Representative Bodies (NTRB) and Prescribed Bodies Corporate (PBC) staff from across the country to discuss anthropology in the native title workforce, and diversifying the contributions of anthropology in the post-determination space.
During the conference, two presentations were made on behalf of YMAC.
Amy Usher, YMAC Research, Country and Culture Manager, delivered a presentation alongside Emma King, Manager of the Anthropology Unit at the North Queensland Land Council, NTRB Aboriginal Corporation. Their presentation explained the training and processes that each of their Representative Bodies undertake to grow and strengthen their research department workforces.
Corey Herrmann, YMAC Senior Anthropologist, delivered his presentation on the current and changing role of anthropology in the post-determination space, and the
contributions and challenges of anthropologists working in PBC’s. Corey’s presentation advocated for more engagement with anthropology across the native title sector, Aboriginal organisations, and society in general.
In the days leading up to the conference, Ben Archer, YMAC Anthropologist, also attended a CNTA Native Title Anthropology Foundation Course, which helped him build his knowledge of anthropology in the native title space.
Corey said he found the 2025 CNTA Annual Conference valuable to his anthropology work at YMAC.
“The CNTA Conference was a valuable forum for learning – including cross disciplinary learning – and networking with others working within the native title and cultural heritage sector across Australia,” he said.
“It also provided a great opportunity for consultants, organisations and other Rep Bodies to collaborate, learn and support each other across the sector.”
To find out more about the CNTA 2025 Annual Conference and watch videos of the presentations, visit cnta.org.au/annual-conferences
Amy Usher presenting at the CNTA 2025 Annual Conference (Photo: Corey Herrmann, YMAC)
Raising First Nations voices on a global scale
Bianca McNeair, a Malgana woman from Gutharaguda / Shark Bay, presented at YMAC’s 2025 All Staff Conference about her recent trip to the 29th United Nations Conference of Parties (COP 29), held in Baku, Azerbaijan from 11 – 22 November 2024.
COP 29 brought together climate activists from across the globe, as world leaders from the member states (Parties) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) met with business leaders, young people, and Indigenous Peoples to strengthen global action on climate change.
Bianca attended as part of a First Nations Delegation, which she said was vital in elevating the voices of Australian Aboriginal people in global climate discussions and platforms. Throughout the conference, over 200 pavilions hosted various events and discussions, separate from the global negotiations and decisions taking place.
“While we’re all there having fun with our different mob, in a whole other area of COP is where the actual negotiations are taking place,” Bianca said. “[The Pavilions are] all just smoke and mirrors and distraction for us. There’s still these huge conversations going on with politicians and representatives of different countries.
“Indigenous peoples are not at those tables,” she said. This is something Bianca is hoping to change. During the event she took up peaceful protests, media, and discussion opportunities where she could, raising the voices of Indigenous peoples around the world.
“Taking that space was really important, especially for grass roots mob to say ‘yes, we are here, we do exist, we’ve been caring for this Country for thousands and thousands of years – and we want it to survive.’”
While there, Bianca participated in a panel talk on The Importance of Indigenous Leadership and Approaches to Climate Solutions, where she shared her work in supporting women in Aboriginal Ranger Programs.
Bianca hopes to grow Australia’s First Nations Delegation to future COPs, in an effort to build relationships and share traditional knowledge across the world.
“The knowledge that our Traditional Owners have about what we see happening to our Country – it’s really important to tell those stories. Those stories aren’t being heard at an international scale,” she said.
“What we can learn from each other, from across the country, from across the world, it really can make a difference. The hope and the cultural influence that brings is priceless.”
As a long-term advocate of First Nations equity and ownership in the clean energy sector, YMAC is proud to have contributed to The First Nations Clean Energy Strategy 2024 – 2030, through our representation on the First Nations Clean Energy and Emissions Reductions Advisory Committee. We were pleased to welcome the launch of the strategy in December last year, which you can read more about on our website at ymac.org.au/announcements
Through our online Renewable Energy Guide, we are committed to supporting Prescribed Bodies Corporate (PBCs) in their work with Renewable Energy Developers (REDs), to successfully navigate a pathway which benefits all those involved. You can access it now on the YMAC website at ymac.org.au/ renewable-energy
Personal Return of Research Materials
YMAC has recently updated our Personal Return of Research Material Form, which is available on our website.
During the native title process, a significant amount of information is collected through desktop research and on-Country fieldwork with Traditional Owners. Once native title is determined, our best practice Return of Materials processes ensures collected materials are returned in a culturally appropriate way.
As part of this process, personal information can and is provided back to informants. This information can include, fieldnotes, photos, videos and hand drawn maps or genealogies.
Personal returns can be done at any time with people who have provided information to YMAC as part of the native title research process. Information can also be provided back to family or next of kin where someone has passed away, please contact the YMAC Research Team to enquire further about this.
To start a personal return, fill out the form on the YMAC website at and email it back to the YMAC Research Team. The Personal Return of Research Material Form and information about our best practise Return of Materials Guide can be found on our website at ymac. org.au/what-we-do/research
For more information, call the YMAC Research Team on Freecall 1800 270 709, or email research@ymac.org.au
Photos: Bianca McNeair at COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan in November 2024 (Photos: Maria Cutmore)
YMAC to develop ‘Innovate’ RAP
The YMAC Board of Directors have approved the development of a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
A RAP is a framework for organisations to help them effectively contribute to Australia’s reconciliation movement. It aims to foster strong relationships and mutual respect between First Nations and non-First Nations staff by engaging in strategic and meaningful action towards reconciliation.
There are four types of RAPs, each designed to reflect the stages of reconciliation which the organisation is at. The four stages are: Reflect, building strong foundations; Innovate, implementing change; Stretch, reconciliation leaderships; and Elevate, transformation change. YMAC have decided to begin their RAP journey through the Innovate stage.
While there is a misconception that Aboriginal Corporations don’t need one, a RAP can provide an official framework to guide both First Nations and non-First Nations staff on a reconciliation journey in a more structured way, by focusing on strengthening relationships and piloting strategies which can increase economic equity and support First Nations peoples’ self-determination.
YMAC will be establishing a RAP Working Group and committee, who will meet a minimum of four times a year to progress the development of the plan. The committee will have an equal representation of First Nations and non-First Nations YMAC staff members, as well as equal gender and regional representation.
YMAC will also be seeking the services of an independent First Nations consultant to assist in the process.
For more information on Reconciliation Action Plans, visit reconciliation.org.au/ reconciliation-action-plans
YMAC Deputy Co-Chairperson – Pilbara, Mrs Eaton, and YMAC Co-Chairperson – Yamatji, Mr Peter Windie, recently met with North Queensland Land Council (NQLC) Chairlady Ms Angie Akee and Chief Executive Officer Mr Leon Yeatman on their visit to Boorloo / Perth.
YMAC has a Memorandum of Understanding with both the NQLC and Queensland South Native Title Services, and this meeting allowed a rare opportunity to talk in person about shared issues facing Traditional Owners and PBCs, and to begin discussion on how we might partner in our advocacy efforts for better operating environments and outcomes in our respective regions. We look forward to continued discussion throughout this year.
The visit also extended to the official launch of the Mabo Centre at Kings Park in Boorloo / Perth, acknowledging the new partnership between the National Native Title Council, of which YMAC is a member, and The University of Melbourne.
Learn more about the centre at mabocentre.com
YMAC interns gain real-world experience
YMAC was fortunate to have three interns join the office throughout October 2024 to February 2025: two with the Land and Sea Management team and one with Legal.
YMAC interns Tara O’Brien, Isabella Dunne, and Anne-Marie Toman (Photo: Heather Dowling, YMAC)
Two of these placements were organised through the Aurora Education Program, which offers student internships with organisations who are working to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Anne-Marie Toman and Tara O’Brien spent time with the YMAC Land and Sea Management team. Both are studying an Environmental Science degree at Australian Universities and have a passion for caring for Country.
During her time with us, Anne-Marie helped facilitate event planning and undertake research into various environmental and advocacy projects. She said a highlight of her experience was gaining a real-world insight into the process of carrying out long-term projects.
“There’s so much collaboration and depth of knowledge involved in this space of land and sea management, and beyond. It’s a really dynamic workplace,”
Anne-Marie said.
Tara spent her internship working on risk assessment for a ranger project, drafting environmental policies, and engaging in research into how climate change is
affecting Traditional Owners in the Yamatji and Pilbara regions.
She said her favourite part of the internship was helping identify plant species from photos taken on some trips to Kalbarri.
“I identified all the plant species and then I made a Flora Trip Summary Report where I did a data analysis, comparing the different times of the trips and the different species. It was great,” said Tara.
Isabella Dunne spent her internship with the YMAC Legal team; she is currently studying a double degree in Law and International Aid. She spent time drafting Heritage Agreements, supporting the recent Future Acts Review consultation process, and helping the team with research.
“They’ve tried to expose me everything,” Isabella said. “But it’s also been really nice to have a go at stuff and have the support to be able to attempt it.”
If you or someone you know would like to intern with us, visit the Careers page on the YMAC website at ymac.org.au or find out more through the Aurora Education Foundation website at aurorafoundation.com.au
Country, Culture, People, Future
About us
YMAC News is produced by Yamatji Marlpa Aboriginal Corporation.
We are an Aboriginal Corporation and the Native Title Representative Body for the Mid West, Murchison, Gascoyne and Pilbara regions of Western Australia.
YMAC Vision 2021–2025: Through connection to Country, Aboriginal people pursue and achieve economic, social and cultural goals and aspirations with strength and confidence.
Our mission:
For current and future generations, we work with and for Australian Aboriginal people to protect rights and manage Country and opportunities.
Freecall: 1800 270 709
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144 Flores Road
Webberton WA 6530
PO Box 2119
Geraldton WA 6531
T: 08 9965 6222
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PO Box 3072
249 Hay Street East Perth WA 6892
T: 08 9268 7000
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T: 08 9160 3800
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