Native title won after two decades

A land battle that spanned more than two decades finally came to an end last Wednesday when the Palyku people were recognised as native title holders of 9000sqkm of the Pilbara.

Representatives from the Federal Court and State and Federal Governments met with traditional owners on country for the emotional occasion last week, after the first claim was made in 1998.

Traditional owner David Milroy said the determination meant a lot to him and his people.

“It’s been a long journey to get here — today’s native title recognition is a historic event,” he said.

Areas of cultural significance within the determined area include Woodstock, Gallery Hill, Cadejeput Creek, Bonney Downs, Noreena Downs, Hillside and Redmont Spring.

Federal Court Justice John Reeves presented official documents of ownership to Palyku people who were at the determination.

“I would like to congratulate everyone who has worked so hard to achieve this determination of native title claim, and to make it the significant occasion that it is,” Justice Reeves said.

“This determination of native title does not create native title in this determination area, instead it marks the recognition by the Australian legal system of the Palyku people’s long-held pre-existing native title in this land, according to the traditions and customs of the Palyku people since long before this determination by the court.”

Native title representative body Yamatji Marlpa Aboriginal Corporation chief executive Simon Hawkins said it had been a long journey to achieving recognition.

“I congratulate the applicants on successfully securing this recognition of their traditional rights and interests after two decades of perseverance and commitment,” he said.

“This would not be possible without the dedicated support of the YMAC team, the Federal Court and State representatives.”

A celebration was held at Wild Dog Creek following the announcement.