Media statement
As the Australian Indigenous Tourism Conference comes to a close, Yued Aboriginal Corporation is pleased to announce the finalisation of a new Tourism Plan which places a strong emphasis on the intersections across Yued Boodja.
From the beautiful coastline stretching from Wilbinga to Leeman, the riverlands of the Moore and Hill rivers and the abundant wildflower country of the northern Wheatbelt, Yued Boodja offers immensely rich cultural landscapes.
Nyoongar stories connect subterranean sites, such as caves, with surface features such as rivers, lakes and the incredibly powerful desert landscape commonly known as the Pinnacles, and the skies above through Nyoongar constellations.
The story of this Boodja is one of deep time, of primeval geological formations, of ancient human landscapes, including lands long since submerged after the last Ice Age, the history of invasion and its consequences for Nyoongars over the past two centuries, and of Nyoongar hopes for the future.
The Yued Tourism Plan sets a path ahead for cultural authority leading to specific projects at the Pinnacles and, potentially, Mogumber. The latter will be required to be part of a future truth-telling and listening project Yued AC is developing with Karrda Consultants.
Comments attributable to Sharna Meinertz, Chairperson, Yued Aboriginal Corporation:
“We are laying the groundwork for economic opportunities across Yued Boodja, and tourism is one of these.
“Under the South West Native Title Settlement we have the chance to develop land as part of the Noongar Land Estate for tourism facilities, and to negotiate strong outcomes with the State government for joint management of the conservation estate.
“This plan helps to establish the basis for our future work, and the work of Yued Nyoongar-owned businesses, in this sector.”
Comments attributable to Rewi Lyall, Chief Executive Officer, Yued Aboriginal Corporation:
“Tourism is an important part of the overall mix of economic potential for Yued Nyoongars across the Yued Agreement Area.
“We are approaching these opportunities in a thoughtful, deliberate manner. In this way we will ensure that Elders guide the way and we reduce the risk of flash-in-the-pan outcomes.”