Rubibi criticism “disappointing”
At Broome in Western Australia, the Rubibi group has made a native title deal with the state government – taking the unusual step of extinguishing native title over an area of land – in return for an agreed package of cultural and economic benefits. The agreement clears the way for a new residential aged care facility and allows significant cultural heritage areas to be preserved and maintained by traditional owners. The state Opposition and a rival clan group, the Walmun Yawaru, are critical of the deal. But Kimberly Land Council Executive Director Wayne Bergmann welcomes the agreement as opening up economic development opportunities for the future. WA Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah McTiernan attended the handover – she describes the ceremony and explains the benefits that will flow to the Indigenous community and non-Indigenous residents.