Ancestral lines united in Eastern Kuku Yalanji native title determination

The Eastern Kuku Yalanji people are celebrating a landmark native title determination that formally recognizes their rights over more than 200,000 hectares of land on Australia's Cape York Peninsula. The Federal Court convened in the Aboriginal community of Wujal Wujal for the consent determination hearing, attended by over 600 traditional owners. This historic moment unites more than 100 ancestral lines, forming the largest native title group on Cape York. Elder Frances Walker described it as a proud day, emphasizing the strength found in togetherness. Chief Justice Debra Mortimer acknowledged the privilege of being on country to recognize a legal tradition spanning thousands of years, stating that despite the history of colonization, Eastern Kuku Yalanji culture and lore remain strong. The determination encompasses 217,884 hectares, stretching from the Annan River to the Daintree River, and includes significant landmarks like Cape Tribulation and Black Mountain. The Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation will serve as the prescribed body corporate responsible for managing and protecting these native title rights. This recognition grants exclusive native title over approximately 35% of the determination area, meaning future activities will require permission from the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people. The corporation's chief operating officer, Kallum Clarke, highlighted that this empowerment will enable the community to secure funding for land management and create opportunities for younger generations, allowing them to reconnect with their country.

“

To see the Federal Court on Yalanji Land, we proved to the system that we are the rightful people of this land.