Land rights victory in north-west Victoria
Three Indigenous groups have been awarded exclusive rights to land in Victoria – including the right to control access – after a long court battle.
The Federal Court last week recognised the people of the Millewa-Mallee, the Latji Latji, Ngintait and Nyeri Nyeri, as holding rights to land stretching across Victoria’s northwest corner to the South Australian border.
Exclusive native title means the three traditional owner groups have the right to control access to the land.
The determination covers thousands of square kilometres, including Mildura, and follows the Murray River, stretching south along the Calder Highway and west through the Murray-Sunset National Park.
Apex Park Sandbar, Kings Billabong Park and Murray-Sunset National Park, home to Victoria’s famous pink lakes, are all on the list of landmarks covered by the overall native title claim.
Justice Elizabeth Bennett recognised the ‘resilience and determination’ of the First Nations Peoples of Millewa-Mallee.
The determination covers thousands of square kilometres, including Mildura.
‘Despite the dispossession and other atrocities inflicted upon the Native Title Holders and their predecessors, the Native Title Holders have maintained their traditional laws and customs and have under them a deep and enduring connection,’ Justice Bennett said.
‘It is appropriate to make the orders sought. In doing so, the court recognises the resilience and determination of the First Peoples of the Millewa-Mallee Native Title Claim Group in reaching this milestone.
‘Doing so is a testament to the strength of connection to country that this determination reflects.’
Nyeri Nyeri Elder Wendy Brabham said her people had suffered through an ‘onslaught of rejections’ as they fought for their rights.
Ms Brabham said Indigenous people had to bend their customs, laws, protocols and traditions to Australian law, which was a constant clash of views.
She added her mother had fought for land rights since the 1970s.
‘I hope our future generations of all our family groups will build on today’s decision to honour our Ancestors by strengthening, preserving and sharing our Culture,’ she said.
