Parties invited to negotiate Kalkadoon native title application 

The National Native Title Tribunal has placed advertisements in local papers inviting people with interests in land and waters covered by a native title application north-west of Mount Isa and east of Camooweal to register for talks aimed at reaching negotiated agreements.

National Native Title Tribunal Senior Case Manager Mr Craig Jones said the native title applicants, the Kalkadoon People, had asked for their traditional rights to be recognised over an area covered by mineral exploration permit #13839.

'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,' Mr Jones 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 Kalkadoon People's application covers an area of approximately 29 square kilometres within the Mount Isa City Council local government area.

An application of native title excludes private freehold land and certain leasehold land.

Any person who thinks they may have an interest in the claim has until 8 July 2003 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.