The Larrakia people in the Top End of the Northern Territory have finally succeeded in securing a land claim which was first launched in 1979.
The claim lodged in for the Cox Peninsula across from Darwin and was resolved this week following a multiple setbacks over 37 years.
Over the years the deal has been plagued with issues surrounding connection to country, compensation and the clean-up of contaminated areas.
Taking into account the difficult road to the deal, the Chief Executive of the Northern Land Council who facilitated the deal describes the outcome as a momentous day.
While the outcome is a victory for the Larrakia people, some family groups within the nation say they have been left out of the deal and call for a review of the Traditional Owner Structure.
Tibby Quoll from the Dungalaba (dun-ga-laba) Clan told NITV’s the Point this week, they have been left out of the group formally entitled to the claim.
Dungaglaba woman Sharmaine Siebert says the Northern Land Council doesn’t have the right to leave them out.
The CEO of the Northern Land Council says they don’t currently have a function to conduct a review of the Traditional Owner structure of the Kenbi land claim.
Joe Morrison told NITV’s The Point, it is a serious matter that will be carried out with due diligence.
Mr Morrison also says the Traditional Owner group have stated they will be working with the wider Larrakia community.
Main Image: The ABC
