TLaWC was registered on the 16 July 2009 as the Registered Aboriginal Party that represents the interests of the Taungurung people.
Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAP's) are organisations that hold decision-making responsibilities under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 for protecting Aboriginal cultural heritage in a specified geographical area.
Strathbogie Shire Council Mayor Cr Chris Raeburn said developing a MoU is essential to strengthening the relationship with our first peoples and the Traditional Owners of Taungurung Country.
"Our aim is to protect our region's important cultural heritage," Cr Raeburn said.
"An MoU will govern the interactions between Council and the Taungurung Land and Waters Council and build practical and mutually respectful and beneficial connections.
"We are now seeking the community's input into the MoU.
"We will also be seeking input on a new Acknowledgement to Country for Council to use at all official meetings and events and in Council documents."
Taungurung Land and Waters Council Chief Executive Officer Matthew Burns said the Taungurung people were delighted to be signing an MoU with Strathbogie Shire Council.
"We commend the Council for their leadership in ensuring the involvement of the traditional owners in their planning processes," Mr Burns said.
"This MoU is groundbreaking, and we expect it to be the first of many such agreements on the Taungurung estate.
"As the traditional owners of the land we are looking to elevate our role in the land use planning matters undertaken by local government bodies."
To have your say go to www.share.strathbogie.vic.gov.au. Feedback closes at 5pm on July 29, 2021.
