According to Robertson the Native Title Consent Determination by the Federal Court in Aurukun now recognised the Wik and Wik Way People’s native title rights over 19,672 square kilometres in the Cape. He further informed that the consent determination recognises non-exclusive rights for the Wik and Wik Way People to live and camp in the area.
It is told that the recognition of Native title gives them the right to conduct social, religious, cultural, spiritual and ceremonial activities in the area. He said that this is the fourth successful determination for the Wik and Wik Way People. The comprehensive agreement covers lands and waters on the western side of Cape York Peninsula between Weipa and Aurukun within parts of two mining leases held by Rio Tinto Aluminium Limited.
Robertson explained that the State Government’s policy has long been to settle native title determinations via negotiation wherever possible. The determination puts beyond doubt the right of the Wik and Wik Way people to be consulted over any future development in the region.
