Mithaka traditional owners have been awarded native title over an area of Queensland land and water that rivals Tasmania in size.
The Federal Court, sitting in Windorah in south-west Queensland, made the ruling over 55,425 square kilometres, which is only about 12,000 square kilometres less than Tasmania.
Queensland Natural Resources Minister Anthony Lynham said Tuesday's determination protected the Mithaka people's rights to access their lands to hunt, fish, teach and conduct ceremonies.
Elder George Gorringe, 68, said the determination would give the Mithaka People a say in how they worked with other groups in the area to ensure their land was cared for properly.
"For many years, I have worked on many of the cattle properties and councils, quite often alongside my father, and I have become aware of the many traditional cultural sites on our land," he said.
"The recognition of native title means I can now be involved with our Mithaka People and our many friends on stations and in the shires to make sure these sites and traditions are looked after so they will last forever."
The Federal Court, sitting in Windorah in south-west Queensland, made the ruling over 55,425 square kilometres, which is only about 12,000 square kilometres less than Tasmania.
Queensland Natural Resources Minister Anthony Lynham said Tuesday's determination protected the Mithaka people's rights to access their lands to hunt, fish, teach and conduct ceremonies.
Elder George Gorringe, 68, said the determination would give the Mithaka People a say in how they worked with other groups in the area to ensure their land was cared for properly.
"For many years, I have worked on many of the cattle properties and councils, quite often alongside my father, and I have become aware of the many traditional cultural sites on our land," he said.
"The recognition of native title means I can now be involved with our Mithaka People and our many friends on stations and in the shires to make sure these sites and traditions are looked after so they will last forever."
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