“We’re inviting everyone to join us in opening our hearts, to listen deeply, to learn intently and embrace all life that shares this beautiful place with us.”
They are the words of Kabi Kabi Peoples Aboriginal Corporation chair Norman Bond, after the organisation signed an historic commitment to sustainable custodianship with Noosa Council.
Mayor Frank Wilkie and Noosa’s six councillors joined the corporation’s seven board members last week to sign the commitment, which formalises the two organisations’ strong working relationship.
It was inspired by other examples around the world, including New Zealand’s ‘Tiaki Promise’ and the ‘Palau Pledge’, and is the first commitment of its type in Queensland.
Cr Wilkie said it was council’s responsibility to make decisions on behalf of the community.
“This document reaffirms our commitment to care for this place we all love,” he said.
Mr Bond said it was important custodianship was shared with current and future generations.
“This commitment is a tangible promise to look after, care for and respect our land and waterways,” he said.
“This requires a collective approach to how we care for what we love about Noosa.”
Mr Bond hopes other local governments follow Noosa’s lead.
“This is more than just a formal, symbolic agreement, it acknowledges our values and principles and is a tangible promise to look after, care for and respect these lands and waterways, in order to create a place of mutual flourishing,” he said.
Cr Wilkie said the commitment between the council and the Kabi Kabi People acknowledged Noosa’s First Nations people and their deep cultural and spiritual connection to the lands and waters.
“It invites us to join with Noosa’s First Nations People’s to be custodians of Noosa so we can all continue to thrive in the future,” he said.
It comes after Kabi Kabi Traditional Owners’ non-exclusive rights to an area of 10,280 square kilometres, spanning Noosa, Gympie, the Glass House Mountains, Maroochydore, Caloundra, Bribie Island and Mudjimba Island, were recognised in June.
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