East Pilbara ceremony marks the protection of 2.2 million hectares of Martu native title land

A ceremony near the remote community of Punmu in the East Pilbara has celebrated the Warla-Warrarn Martu Indigenous Protected Area. Jamukurnu Yapalikurnu Aboriginal Corporation hosted the ceremony on Friday, July 7 which marked the protection of 2.2 million hectares of Martu native title lands. Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney said the protection was a win for culture and the environment. “I am extremely proud of the Jamukurnu Yapalikurnu Aboriginal Corporation and Martu people in dedicating this Indigenous Protected Area, to protect the Percival Lakes and Lake Waukarlycarly systems and their surrounding lands,” she said. “The Martu have a strong tradition and culture in protecting the lakes systems and through their deep traditional knowledge of their ngurra. “The program will link this deep traditional knowledge and understanding to achieve the protection of Australia’s unique biodiversity and culture for the benefit of all Australians and future generations to come. “The IPA program supports the Martu people to realise their vision of managing their own traditional lands, harnessing opportunities for local Martu people to work on Country.” The Indigenous Protected Areas Program includes more than 92 million hectares across Australia including a total of 11 per cent of all landmass. The Albanese Labor Government said it was committed to protecting 30 per cent of land and sea by 2030. Minister for the Environment Tanya Plibersek said the protection of Martu land was an investment for future generations. “Today, we’ve added a further 2.2 million hectares of land to our national estate, helping protect our natural landscapes and native plants and animals for our kids and grandkids,” she said. “Protecting and actively managing this area, through right-way fire management, threatened species conservation and weed and pest animal control, plays an essential role in protecting the many species, like the Greater Bilby, that call it home.” The JYAC is the trustee for Martu native title rights.