South coast native partnership forum
Kiama Council in southern NSW, in partnership with Gerringong Aboriginal Housing Corporation, are to hosting the inaugural Kiarama Southeastern Seaboard Native Title Partnership Symposium this week with funding from NSW Aboriginal Affairs.
The two‑day event brings together Traditional Custodians, south coast councils, government agencies, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and local Aboriginal‑owned businesses to strengthen collaborative approaches to land, culture and community outcomes.
Hosted at The Pavilion Kiama, Gerringong Town Hall and Gerringong Surf Club, the symposium aims to build a shared understanding of the pending Native Title consent determination for the South Coast Aboriginal Peoples’ Claim Group and explore new pathways for partnership across the region.
Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said: “Working alongside Traditional Custodians and Aboriginal organisations is essential to shaping our shared future, and this symposium helps ensure those partnerships are grounded in respect and ongoing dialogue.”
Strengthening collaboration
The symposium provides a forum for dialogue on land management, cultural heritage, governance and community development.
Delegates will work together to identify opportunities for respectful and long‑term collaboration with the South Coast Native Title applicants.
Gerringong on the NSW south coast.
Program highlights include a Welcome to Country by Aunty Jodie Stewart, opening remarks from Kiama Mayor Cameron MacDonald and an address by Kiama’s Member of Parliament, Ms Katelin McInerney.
The program also features panel discussions involving Elders, Traditional Owners, Native Title Delegates and NSW Government representatives, as well as a Connections to Country workshop hosted by Aunty Gwenda Jarrett.
