The National Native Title Tribunal has today placed advertisements inviting people with interests in land covered by a native title application in the Biloela region in central Queensland to register for talks aimed at reaching negotiated agreements. The notification period commences on 12 December 2001.
National Native Title Tribunal Regional Manager, Ms Joanna Boileau, said the native title applicants - the Gangulu People - had asked for their traditional rights to be recognised over the area. She said this notification was another stage in the process of moving towards a native title determination. The application was originally lodged with the Tribunal in 1997.
"People or organisations with interests in the areas claimed may want to be involved in working out how their rights may coexist with native title holders," Ms Boileau said.
"By registering for talks, people may have the opportunity to participate in mediation meetings with the applicants and other parties. The Tribunal conducts these meetings, aiming to resolve associated issues and reach voluntary agreements that respect everyone's rights and interests. The mediation process is the first step in determining these applications."
The application from the Gangulu People takes in the shires of Banana, Duaringa, Fitzroy and Mount Morgan and a small part of the Monto shire. Information about the Gangulu application and a large map of the application area is available for viewing at these shire offices.
Not all areas of land and water within the application's external boundary are claimed: for example, the application excludes private freehold land.
Any person who thinks they may have an interest in the claim has until 11 March 2002 to apply to the District Registrar of the Federal Court to 'become a party' to the application. The Federal Court is responsible for deciding who can be a party to an application and whether or not mediation should take place. The Federal Court refers the application to the Tribunal when it has decided that mediation is required.
Further information is available from the NNTT on freecall 1800 640 501. |