In a historic moment for land and culture, a further 167,400 hectares of the existing Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park has been handed back to the Traditional Owners, the Waanyi People.
The Waanyi Native Title Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC have agreed to lease the land back to the Queensland Government, building on the state's first successful lease-back arrangement for national park land which was formalised in 2023.
This hand back represents the second phase of a staged approach to return the entirety of Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park to its rightful custodians.
More than 247-thousand hectares has now been handed back as part of the ongoing partnership between the Queensland Government and the Waanyi People, which will ensure the sustainable management and preservation of this iconic landscape.
The park will be rededicated as Boodjamulla National Park (Aboriginal land) following the transfer of the Aboriginal land title deed.
The hand back event took place in Cairns on 19 November, where Waanyi representatives of the RNTBC formally signed the national park lease and accepted the Aboriginal land title deed.
Executive Director Partnerships Karrell Ross said the hand back is a significant step in recognising the cultural and historical importance of Boodjamulla to the Waanyi People.
"This historic hand back is a testament to the Queensland Government's commitment to reconciliation and the recognition of our Traditional Owners," Ms Ross said.
"Boodjamulla National Park is a place of spiritual connection, and we are proud to work alongside the Waanyi People to ensure its preservation for future generations.
"This partnership demonstrates how we can work together to protect our natural and cultural heritage while ensuring ongoing public access to this remarkable part of Queensland.
"With harsh, breathtaking sandstone gorges, jewel-toned green waters of the Lawn Hill Gorge and stunning walking tracks, Boodjamulla National Park is one of Queensland's most popular locations.
"It attracts thousands of visitors annually, and is on the bucket list of national and international tourists seeking natural and cultural experiences."
The Queensland Government and the Waanyi RNTBC entered into an Indigenous Land Use Agreement in 2023, which formally acknowledges the rights of the Waanyi People.
The agreement also ensures ongoing public access to the national park and establishes a lease and Cooperative Management Agreement, enabling the Waanyi People and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service to collaboratively manage the park.
