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Tuesday, 27th June 2006 (2028 views)

A ceremony has been held to celebrate new exploration agreements between indigenous peoples and the Minerals Council of Australia (MCA).

The regional Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUAs) facilitate agreements between explorers and native title claimants including the Dja Dja Wurrung, Wadi Wadi, Wamba Wamba and Barapa Barapa peoples of Victoria. The agreements have been designed to bring tangible benefits to all concerned.

The ILUAs provide an "opportunity for indigenous people to translate rights into socio-economic outcomes", the MCA stated.

Gary Murray of the Wadi, Wampa and Barapa peoples said: "History will show that Captain Cook didn't get our consent, but the Minerals Council of Australia did.

"That shows you what happens when people of good will obtain the free, prior and informed consent of traditional owners acting professionally and in good faith."

The celebration, which took place at Lake Weeroona in Bendigo, included dancing and smoking ceremonies and was attended by members of the Victorian government.

The MCA looks after the interests of the gold industry in Australia after it incorporated the Australian Gold Council earlier this year.

 

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