Wagiman celebrate land handback

The title deeds to more than 1,000 square kilometres of land in the Upper Daly region south of Pine Creek have been handed back to the traditional owners, the Wagiman people.

Consisting of four separate blocks left outstanding from the Upper Daly Land Claim initially lodged in 1979, the return of the land is the result of many years of hard work and patience.

Title to the land blocks was handed back on behalf of the Governor General by Federal Minister for Indigenous Affairs, the Hon. Philip Ruddock, to Mr Paddy Huddlestone, a senior Wagiman man. The titles will be held by the newly formed Wagiman (No 2) Aboriginal Land Trust.

Senior Wagiman Man, Mr Paddy Huddlestone

Until their amalgamation in 1983, the Upper Daly Claim consisted of three separate claims. But, after extensive negotiations, the Wagiman have now secured title to country of high importance.

There is a very important men's site located on one portion of land and today's hand back not only ensures the on-going protection of that site, but also allows for the continuation of traditional practices.

Northern Land Council Deputy Chairperson John Daly

In 1990 the Aboriginal Land Commissioner recommended some land be granted to claimants, but decided not to recommend a grant of other land included in the original claim.

With some, but not all land returned to the Wagiman, a repeat claim was lodged, prompting the NT Government of the day and claimants to enter into negotiations that have resulted in a 'win-win' outcome for both parties.

This is a clear example of just what can be achieved when governments are willing to sit down and talk with Aboriginal people and work towards a negotiated settlement, rather than contest them.

John Daly

The popular Umbrawarra Gorge Nature Park is included in the claim area and will be converted to NT Freehold Title and jointly managed between the Wagiman and the NT Government.

A similar agreement is likely to be negotiated with the nearby Douglas Hot Springs Nature Park.