5th Annual Yule River On-Country Bush Meeting, 11-12 July 2018
Posted: June 14th, 2018
The 5th Annual On-Country Bush Meeting event at Yule River on 11 and 12 July will once again bring together Traditional Owners from across Western Australia to discuss the issues that affect them and their families.
Day 1, 11 July, supports Traditional Owners in their cultural decision-making to develop solution-based responses to issues. The day will conclude with a celebration of custom and culture with traditional singing and dancing performed by several Aboriginal community groups.
Day 2, 12 July, welcomes decision-makers and influencers to witness the resolutions that are passed by the community with State Government Ministers Ben Wyatt (Aboriginal Affairs), Stephen Dawson (Environment), and Alannah MacTiernan (Regional Development), registering their attendance this year.
Also registering their attendance are Senator the Hon Nigel Scullion, Federal Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Senator for Western Australia the Hon Pat Dodson, and the Hon. Robin Chapple MLC, as well as representatives from the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, the National Native Title Tribunal, Pilbara Aboriginal Corporations and Enterprises, and more.
Yamatji Marlpa Aboriginal Corporation (YMAC) CEO Simon Hawkins said Yule River highlighted the positive accomplishments and contributions being made by Traditional Owners across the State, with last year’s event attracting more than 400 people.
“This is a forum for Traditional Owners, politicians, and bureaucrats to meet, to discuss key issues,” Mr Hawkins said.
“The event represents a significant opportunity for revitalising trust, relationship-building and providing a platform for authentic engagement and YMAC is proud to facilitate the annual meeting for the benefit of Traditional Owners across the State.”
At the 2017 Yule River meeting, Traditional Owners passed three resolutions:
- The historic formation of an Independent Representative Group to give advice to the government on behalf of Aboriginal Pilbara People.
- The establishment of key issues: language preservation; improve education in the Pilbara; improve health services – mental, renal and men’s health; support of a treaty with the State Government; improved housing services for Aboriginal Pilbara people; oppose the Cashless Welfare Card; and Aboriginal heritage protection.
- Support of the Uluru Statement from the Heart, constitutional recognition and Federal Government Treaty.
The 2018 meeting will look at the progress of these resolutions, and the need for others.
Entertainment will be provided by award winning singer/songwriter John Bennett, as well as traditional dancers, with bush tucker available, as well as stalls assembled by Aboriginal organisations of excellence.
To download our event information click here.