The National Native Title Tribunal will hold information sessions in Woodenbong next week. Tribunal representatives will address a public meeting at Woodenbong as well as meeting separately with local government authorities and rural protection boards.
"The meetings have been arranged so the whole community has a chance to better understand native title and the Tribunal's processes," Tribunal case manager Ms Jane Mussett said.
"When the native title application by the Aboriginal people of northern NSW, known traditionally as the Gidhabul, was lodged there was a lot of confusion in the community.
"It needs to be understood, native title agreements are reached through mediation and negotiation. The Tribunal doesn't tell people what form those agreements will take, it merely provides a mediation service that can bring all those with an interest in a claim together so issues of mutual interest can be discussed.
"Out of these discussions, it's hoped agreements can be reached that suit the native title claimants and all parties to the application," she said.
The Gidhabul application covers some vacant crown land, waters, reserve land, state forests and national parks in northern NSW and southern Queensland. The applicants have not claimed native title over any freehold land.
Tribunal representatives will hold a public information session at 7.30 pm on 1 April at the Woodenbong Community Hall.
On Wednesday, 3 April, Tribunal representatives will meet with local shire councils and rural protection boards at the Woodenbong Community Hall.
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