Lecture Notes: Reflection and Celebration on Kabi Kabi Country

Introduction

• Event: Day of reflection and celebration on Kabi Kabi Country.
• Focus: Tribute to Eddie Koiki Mabo and the land rights movement.

Eddie Koiki Mabo and Land Rights

• Mabo’s Fight:
  • Campaigned for land rights after realizing he technically didn't own his land.
  • Worked as a gardener at James Cook University.
  • Mabo's conviction took his fight to the High Court.
• High Court Victory:
  • 30 years ago, Mabo and other plaintiffs won the case that abolished the concept of terra nullius.
  • Mabo passed away months before this recognition.

Impact of Mabo’s Victory

• Legacy:
  • Enabled successful native title claims across Australia.
  • Paved way for other Indigenous communities to assert land rights.
• Challenges:
  • Communities like the Yorta Yorta faced rejections in their claims.
  • Disparity in land rights realization remains an issue.

Current Developments

• Iapsa Summit:
  • Major event discussing the future of land rights and cultural restoration.
• Ngunnawal People’s Announcement:
  • Planning a significant native title claim over ACT and parts of New South Wales.
  • 300 family groups involved.
  • Declaration: "This is Ngunnawal land."

Mabo’s Ongoing Legacy

• Family’s Perspective:
  • Mabo remains a hero to his family.
  • Continues to be an inspirational figure in Australian law.

Conclusion

• Significance of Mabo's Achievement:
  • Shook the foundations of Australian law.
  • Continues to inspire and drive the land rights movement.