Noosa Council Mayor Frank Wilkie has congratulated the Kabi Kabi Peoples Aboriginal Corporation on the Federal Court’s formal recognition as native title holders.
Cr Wilkie said the ruling was a significant milestone for the Kabi Kabi People.
“This has been over a 10-year process and an incredible journey for those involved,” he said.
“This claim sits with the 616 others already determined around Australia and highlights our collective responsibility as custodians for this place we all love,” Cr Wilkie said.
Director Strategy and Environment Kim Rawlings welcomed the decision, labelling it a massive achievement for the Kabi Kabi Peoples.
“This has involved an incredible amount of work and is well deserved,” she said.
Ms Rawlings said the determination does not interfere with freehold property rights as freehold land is excluded from native title claims.
“Under Australian Law, no private landowners would be impacted by this Federal Court ruling,” she said.
Ms Rawlings said a key part of Council’s new Corporate Plan is to reinforce a stronger commitment to improving our relationship with Kabi Kabi.
“Our staff continually work with the traditional custodians to inform our strategies, plans, and operational work with respect to cultural heritage and this will continue,” she said.
Cr Wilkie said this recognition strengthens our collective commitment to care for Noosa Shire as joint custodians.
