Post by Kimberley Land Council

Last week, KLC leadership joined Yawuru Traditional Owners and community to mark the 20th anniversary of the Rubibi Native Title Determination. The KLC was honoured to be invited to celebrate this significant milestone, one that represents not only a major achievement for Yawuru people, but an important moment in the broader land rights movement across the Kimberley. The anniversary provides an opportunity to recognise the long and determined journey to legal recognition, and to honour the people whose leadership and persistence made it possible. Yawuru people have been central to both the development of the Kimberley Land Council and the wider struggle for cultural heritage and land justice in the region. From the earliest days, leaders such as Mr Sebastian, Patrick Dodson, Peter Yu and Nolan Hunter stood alongside other Traditional Owners to advocate for the recognition of Aboriginal rights and interests in land and waters. Their efforts helped build a strong and unified voice for Aboriginal people across the Kimberley. At the ceremony, KLC CEO Tyronne Garstone acknowledged the important steps Yawuru have taken towards self-determination: “Twenty years on, that legacy continues. Yawuru people are strengthening governance, investing in economic development and leading land and sea management grounded in cultural knowledge. There is a clear focus on building economic independence, reducing reliance on government funding and shaping a self-determined future. This reflects a long-held vision of autonomy and strength, one carried forward from the old people and now being realised through Yawuru-led development and investment. This milestone is also an opportunity to acknowledge those who carried the fight for recognition, and to recognise the leaders who continue that work today, building a future grounded in culture, guided by community and driven by self-determination. Congratulations on 20 years of native title.” Read more: https://lnkd.in/gBJPhmaH