The 10th anniversary of joint management of Biamanga and Gulaga National Parks was celebrated earlier this month marking a major milestone in the management of these culturally significant parks on NSW’s Far South Coast.
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Gulaga Board of Management chairperson Iris White said the community event or Biriga Bunaan, saw more than 200 people come together at Four Winds near Bermagui to reflect on the partnership between the National Park and Wildlife Service (NPWS), the Yuin Aboriginal Owners and the Gulaga and Biamanga Boards of Management.
“One of the most significant achievements of the last 10 years was creating the first joint plan of management for Gulaga and Biamanga National Parks,” Ms White said.
“The plan is more than a government document, it speaks about Country in the words of the Aboriginal Owners with a connection to this Country.
“It makes sure that what’s important to the Yuin is protected. It makes sure that the right stories are told and we have the right direction to manage Country properly.
“The Board’s decision to buy the neighbouring property Bellbrook in 2013 has also provided us with a way to look after a place of immense significance adjacent to the park, and its purchase was a milestone in our journey of self-determination,” Ms White said.
Paul Stewart, chairperson of the Biamanga Board of Management, said that under the management arrangement good progress has been made employing Yuin.
“There are now six Yuin people employed, mostly in permanent jobs around Narooma and Tanja. When we started there was only three,” Mr Stewart said.
“We now have Yuin rangers for the two parks, Yuin administration and field staff, and are hopeful that in time we’ll see Yuin managers working for NPWS.
“The next 10 years will be busy and it won’t always be easy, but it will be important.
“We want to see the Koori way even more reflected in park management, by going back to our ancestor’s ways for caring for country and looking at traditional burning and other ways to nurture our connection,” Mr Stewart said.
Speaking at the event, Tim Shepherd, Coastal Director NPWS described the anniversary as a proud moment, recognising the extraordinary partnership between NPWS and the Yuin.
“10 years ago we gathered here and recognised the opportunities that the handback presented,” said Mr Shepherd.
“We’re here today, thanks to the work, commitment and courage of Aboriginal people, realising these opportunities and daring to imagine what we’ll achieve in the next 10 years.”
There are more than 20 joint management arrangements between NPWS and Aboriginal Owners in NSW. Joint management recognises Aboriginal people’s responsibility for park management and the opportunity to participate in planning and decision making for the park, while maintaining access for everyone.