Jamukurnu Yapalikurnu Aboriginal Corporation looks to replace Tony McRae

Jamukurnu Yapalikurnu Aboriginal Corporation is looking for a new chief executive following former chief executive Tony McRae’s announcement that he will be departing the JYAC’s top job. Mr McRae has called curtains on the top job at the JYAC, the Prescribed Body Corporate for the Martu people of the Western Desert, after five and a half years. Despite leaving the role, Mr McRae said he hopes to continue to contribute to Indigenous advancement and tackling climate change. “I’m looking forward to the next chapter, including Maria and I staying with our kids and grandkids interstate and me winning a coveted golf championship,” he said. Mr McRae will continue in his role until the new financial year when JYAC’s chief operating officer, Rewi Lyall, will serve as interim CEO while the JYAC board starts a recruitment search. Chair Bruce Booth said Tony had been a strong advocate for Martu when speaking to government, mining and industry on behalf of Martu “He leaves JYAC in a better position than when he started, and we thank him for his hard work,” he said. “The JYAC Board has the highest respect for Mr McRae and we appreciate he and the board will work to make this a seamless transition.” Mr McRae began his service in January 2019 with what was then known as Western Desert Lands Aboriginal Corporation. He also served as an MP and Minister in the Gallop and Carpenter governments with portfolios including WA’s first minister for Climate Change. He says he is most proud of the progress on negotiations with the WA Government for recognition of Martu native title rights over Karlamilyi National Park and compensation – after it was taken from Martu in 1977. “It’s now 47 years since Martu lands were taken away, and two years since the government agreed that this injustice needs to be fixed. “This waiting adds to the hurt felt by Martu, which is why it’s time for the State Government to make good on its promise to recognise Martu ownership,” Mr McRae said. Mr McRae leaves JYAC having steered the organisation from two staff to the 2025 year where JYAC’s budget will exceed $20 million.