The Warrwa and Nyikina native title holders have been formally recognised as traditional owners after the Federal Court endorsed three determinations of native title.
The Warrwa and Nyikina traditional owners are now recognised as having both exclusive and non-exclusive native title rights and interests over approximately 8,874 square kilometres of land and waters in the north-west Kimberley region.
These determinations contribute to the 56 native title determinations in the first term of the McGowan Government, 49 of which have been made by consent.
A total of 1,902,312 square kilometres of Western Australia is now covered by native title determinations.
The Boorroola Moorrool Moorrool Part A determination was made on Monday November 30, 2020 at Munkayarra Wetlands, south of the town of Derby. The determination recognises Nyikina people as traditional owners of approximately 1,032 square kilometres of land and waters in the lower King Sound.
The Warrwa Mawadjala Gadjidgar and Warrwa Combined Part A determinations were made on Tuesday December 1, 2020 at the May River Crossing, north-east of Derby. The two determinations recognise the Warrwa people as traditional owners of approximately 7,842 square kilometres of land and waters in the north-west Kimberley.
As stated by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt:
“Determinations of native title are the culmination of a great deal of hard work by many people, and I acknowledge and commend the commitment of the Nyikina and Warrwa People in reaching this historic outcome.
“The WA Government is committed to working with traditional owners to support cultural and economic development opportunities and other aspirations on traditional lands.”
As stated by Kimberley MLA Josie Farrer:
“As the outgoing member for the Kimberley I congratulate Boorroola Moorrool Moorrool, Warrwa Mawadjala Gadjidgar and Warrwa in achieving formal recognition of native title and traditional ownership over their country.
“This recognition has been a long time coming and gives the traditional owners the great privilege, honour and rights to manage, plan and work their land.”
