THE Barkandji people now officially own and manage the Menindee Lakes Caravan Park, after Crown Lands finalised the transfer of ownership to the Barkandji Registered Native Title Body Corporate at the end of last month.
The handover process began 10 years ago in 2015, when the Federal Court determined that Barkandji people were the traditional owners of the land in the region.
Member for Barwon Roy Butler said the handover was a milestone for the region’s Indigenous population.
“The Native Title claim helps local indigenous groups gain fairer representation in the business community, which better reflects the makeup of the local population,” he said.
Crown Lands acting executive director of Aboriginal land strategy Matthew West said that the transfer acknowledges connection to Country.
“This transfer acknowledges the Barkandji people’s enduring connection to Country and gives them the rightful opportunity to manage and benefit from their land,” he said.
“The New South Wales Government is proud to support this transition, which is not only about land justice but also about creating sustainable, community-led tourism and economic development in the Far West.”
The park also has benefited from recent upgrades including the installation of a new camp kitchen which includes a barbecue area and yarning circle.
Barkandji Registered Native Title Group Aboriginal Corporation CEO, Luke Driscoll, said he encouraged everyone to visit the Caravan Park.
“This is a proud moment for the Barkandji people and a step forward in building capability, creating opportunities, and honouring our unbroken connection to this land,” he said.
“We invite everyone to join us in this unbroken tradition.
“Come and experience the beauty of Menindee Lakes and the hospitality of our community, swap stories in our new camp kitchen and yarning circle and connect with Barkandji Country.”
