Significant Country returned to Darumbal custodianship

More than 400 hectares of land, including some culturally significant landmarks, have been officially returned to the Darumbal people.

From mid-February, the Darumbal People Aboriginal Corporation holds freehold title on country near Mount Chalmers, Mount Archer and Thompson Point.

Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said the Federal Court made their native title determination over the land in 2016, and February’s land transfer is another chapter in the journey of it going into Darumbal people’s hands.

“These transfers demonstrate the government’s ongoing commitment to recognising the rights, history and culture of our First Nations Peoples and the deep connection they continue to hold to the land and to their ancestors,” Mr O’Rourke said.

Darumbal Elder and board member of the Darumbal People Aboriginal Corporation board member George James said the land parcels included significant landmarks with strong connections to Darumbal history.

“The land parcel on Mount Chalmers is near the recently renamed Mount Baga, an area of significant historic events for our people, and Thompson Point at the mouth of the Fitzroy River was a traditional source of food for the Darumbal people,” Mr James said.

“We’re hoping to now use some of this land to take our youth, our children, grandchildren and great grandchildren camping in this bush so we can sit by a fire and tell stories, hold ceremonies, dance, cook, and get them away from their mobile phones.

“In short, it will help our youth to re-establish their cultural connection to our land, to  find their place in our culture, and it will cement it for generations to come.”

Minister for Natural Resources Dr Anthony Lynham congratulated the Darumbal people other respondents and the Federal Court for the spirit of cooperation in achieving this recognition.

“The Queensland Government is committed to recognising the significant connection our First Nations People have with the land, rivers and creeks of our beautiful state. he said.      

Since 2015 Queensland Government has transferred 160 parcels of land - approximately 500,000 hectares - to First Nations Peoples.

Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga said the land transfer is a significant milestone for the Darumbal people.

“It is about recognising and celebrating Aboriginal people’s ownership and connection to this land,” Ms Lauga said.

“These land transfers mean the Darumbal people can help future generations keep connection to their culture and to their country.”

Map showing the three parcels of land transferred to the Darumbal People Aboriginal Corporation in February 2020.