Signs celebrate First Nation management

DJA-Dja-Wurrung designed signs were unveiled at the entrance of Greater Bendigo National Park at One Tree Hill last week.

The signs display information that the park is one of six jointly managed by the Dja-Dja-Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation, also known as DJAARA, and Parks Victoria.

Dja-Dja-Wurrung Group chief executive Rodney Carter said it had been a long process to get the signs installed.

“It’s been five years since the joint management plan was adopted as the management plan for these six parks,” he said.

“Ten years since the signing of the RSA [recognition and settlement agreement] and 30 years since the Mabo legislation overturned Terra Nullius.”

Mr Carter said it was a landmark day with plenty still to be done.

“These six Dja-Dja-Wurrung parks under joint management are the first steps,” he said.

“Today is the celebration of a significant milestone. These beautiful signs represent the first tangible outcome. They mark the first green shoots resulting from our shared hard work up to now.”

Parks Victoria district manager Suzanne Hughes said it was a privilege to work with DJAARA and see growth in action.

“I’ve observed DJAARA lead with a passionate and positive approach,” she said.  “They’ve led with a determination in implementing traditional and contemporary ways and embedding DJAARA culture into the modern world.

“It is very rewarding to be working in this point in history, where progress is taking hold.”

Dhelkunya Dja Land Management Chair, Uncle Graham Atkinson, said it was a great day for all.

“I am very proud, and we should all be,” he said. “Participating in land management is central to our fundamental human and cultural rights.

“Joint management is laying the foundations for self-determination.”